Audi is prepping a mid-life cycle refresh for the range-topping member of the TT family, the RS, which was recently scooped testing at the Nurburgring.

Essentially a rival for the Porsche 718 Cayman, Alpine A110 and Alfa Romeo 4C, the updated TT-RS will get in line with the brand’s latest models from a visual standpoint.

Thus, expect an updated front end with a modified grille, bumper and LED lighting, as well as a redesigned rear bumper and revised taillights, as well as new color and wheel options.

Inside, the ‘baby R8’ is expected to adopt the latest variant of the Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster that provides access to a host of different functions.

Also Read: 2019 Audi TTS Plays It Safe With Minor Styling Tweaks

Details surrounding any potential powertrain upgrades are scarce at the moment. Still, we wouldn’t be surprised if it gets a slight bump in power compared to the current iteration, whose turbo’d 2.5-liter five-cylinder delivers 400PS (395hp / 295kW) and 480Nm (354lb-ft) of torque.

The output is channeled to all four corners through a standard seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. Naught to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes just 3.7 seconds and, when you tick the right box, the 250 km/h (155 mph) top speed limiter is lifted and the TT-RS hits 280km/h (174mph).

Audi is expected to drop the veil off the refreshed TT lineup later this year, but deliveries probably won’t start before early 2019.