Second-generation Audi TT RS gets an aluminium engine block

Audi TT RS enters the second generation. The newly launched offering from the luxury car brand which is all set to make its world premiere at the Beijing motor show in both Coupe and Roadster forms, sees the same 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbo engine concept, but with a revamped engine block now made from aluminium rather than steel.

Audi TT RS power is rated at 400hp – up 60hp from its predecessor – while the maximum torque of 480Nm is achieved between 1,700-5,850rpm. Transmission hardware include an uprated seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox and Quattro all-wheel-drive system.

The new-gen TT RS comes with pronounced-looking air vents up front, two large exhaust pipes and spoiler at the rear. Generous splashes of aluminium, carbonfibre and RS letterings on both the exterior and interior further adds to the vehicle's suave new look.

Audi says the TT RS can sprint from 0-100kph in 3.7sec (3.9sec for the open-top version). That makes it half-a-second quicker than the 718 Cayman and 0.6 seconds faster than BMW M2 Coupe.

With a lighter engine block which is now made from aluminium instead of steel it remains to be seen how the new Audi delivers on the road.