When Audi debuted the TT sports car in 1998, it was considered to be more for show, than for go. Sure, it packed Audi’s turbocharged engines, Quattro all wheel drive system and DSG gearbox, but the styling didn’t help it win a place as a performance machine. Over three generations, the TT would retain its distinctive shape and some of the cutesy styling, but gain the necessary performance chops as well, in the shape of the TT RS model. Only the most potent Audis are deemed worthy to wear the RS badge, so this 2018 Audi TT RS Coupe Quattro is definitely something. It’s got some mods as well, and bears just 28,500 miles since new.

Exterior and Interior

By the third generation, Audi had sharpened up the TT’s looks to a degree that it no longer had that bulbous stance. This 2018 Audi TT RS Coupe Quattro looks good wearing its Catalunya Red Metallic paintwork, and riding on a set of 19-inch HRE Form Flow wheels. Further cosmetic mods include Audi Sport carbon fiber aero body kit, as well as the Black Optic Package, RS Design Package, and front filler panel. The silver fuel filler cap is another stand-out feature. We will see in the Engine section that the mods on this car aren’t just segregated to beauty contest items, but extend beneath the skin as well. In the meantime, let’s open a door and step aboard the black with Crescendo Red stitching interior and carbon fiber inlays. The TT is a two-plus-two, which means seating is a two adults and two children affair. The adults get electrically adjustable bucket seats, and tech toys include climate control, Dynamic Plus Package, Technology Package, Audi’s MMI infotainment system and a decent sound system.

Engine

This 2018 Audi TT RS Coupe Quattro packs a rather special engine under its hood. It’s a 2.5L five-cylinder turbocharged engine that emits a lovely and distinctive off-beat burble, enhanced by the RS Sport exhaust with black tips. On the intake side, things have been improved with an APR carbon fiber intake, APR downpipe and APR turbo inlet pipe. Stage 2 Unitronic software has been installed as well, meaning that this TT RS should make more than the factory 394hp and 351lb-ft figures. Consecutively, the zero to sixty should be faster than the stock 3.7 seconds, although top speed might still be electronically limited at 174mph. On the handling side, you’ve got MSR lowering springs, front and rear stability bar upgrade and Audi Sport rear axle crossmember reinforcement brace that’s said to improve high-speed stability.