Encouraged by the overwhelming — and overwhelmingly positive — response voiced by its U.S. fans, Audi has decided to launch the ultra-performance “RS” variant of its TT in this market for the 2012 model year. Barely a month ago, we reported that Audi of America had created a petition on its Facebook page to gauge potential interest about seeing this currently Euro-only all-wheel-drive road rocket turn up on our streets, as well. Since then, over 11,500 individuals just said “yes” to the question of whether the Audi TT RS should become the new ultra-TT here, including many likely buyers. It proved enough to convince corporate types, both in the U.S and at parent Audi AG, that the time had come to make it happen.
Audi of America has yet to talk pricing specifics or equipment levels on the 2012 TT RS Coupe, which is the only body style that will turn up here. It has, however, confirmed that the basic package — likely arriving here by the third quarter of 2011 — will remain intact. That means a seriously bespoke sport suspension and motivation supplied by a 360-horsepower version of the automaker’s award-winning turbocharged/intercooled 2.5-liter direct-injected TFSI inline-five engine that makes a stout 322 lb-ft of torque.
Backed by a six-speed manual transmission and the latest version of Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive system, it will send this aluminum-intensive super coupe streaking from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. Until it does roll into showrooms here, Americans will have to make due with the current range topping Audi TTS Coupe and Convertible, Quattro-equipped chargers fitted with a 2.0-liter force-fed direct-injected four-cylinder engine that still makes a decidedly engaging and exhilarating 265 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
