Last time we saw a 2019 Audi TT-RS prototype, it was at the Nurburgring, with its front and rear fascia under a reasonable amount of camouflage. Even the side skirts were covered up.
Now, we finally have more revealing images of the car and as expected, a number of things are different right off the bat. Unless the camouflage is still deceiving us, the headlights on this blue car appear a little slimmer than the ones found on the current, non-facelifted model. Although we wouldn’t bet on that being the case.
Small changes, clear results
The grille also seems a little wider, while the front bumper has clearly been redesigned in an attempt to make the car look more dynamic. Other changes include the more pronounced side skirts, a sportier fixed rear wing and fresh new graphics for the taillights, for a more modern appeal.
From an aggression standpoint, Audi definitely needs the TT-RS to be at its best since its biggest rival wears a Porsche badge (718 Cayman).
Techy little sports car
The Audi TT, whether in RS guise or not, has always had a very impressive interior, at least as far as this latest generation model is concerned.
The Virtual Cockpit driver’s instrument cluster has long been available, although that doesn’t mean that Audi won’t be performing any updates – for software as well as graphics, infotainment features, connectivity and so on. The TT doesn’t have a separate screen for the infotainment system, so everything needs to go through the Virtual Cockpit display.
Power isn’t an issue
The faster iteration of the Audi TT will continue using the turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder powerplant which is arguably one of the best sounding units available the class, giving the German compact coupe a thrilling soundtrack to match its really impressive performance.
Also Read:Tuned Audi TT-RS With 750HP Would Give The R8 A Headache
The current model offers 395hp (400PS) and 354lb-ft (480Nm) of peak torque and can hit 60mph from a standstill in just 3.6 seconds, thanks to the permanent Quattro all-wheel drive and the standard seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. Audi Sport can raise the top speed limiter up to 174mph (280km/h), giving the TT RS performance that was found, not so long ago, only in supercars.
Audi will reveal the facelifted range of the TT, including the TT RS, later this year while the market launch is due in early 2019.
*Article updated with new spy shots and additional reporting from Sergiu Tudose