The Audi TT RS Coupe (8S) 2.5 TFSI quattro S tronic represents the high-performance pinnacle of the third-generation TT lineup, produced from November 2016 to June 2018. Positioned as the flagship model, it offered a significant performance upgrade over the standard TT and even the TTS, targeting enthusiasts seeking a compact, yet potent, sports coupe. The 8S generation TT, built on the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform (A3/Golf family), aimed to blend everyday usability with exhilarating driving dynamics, and the RS model amplified that philosophy. This variant specifically combined Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel-drive system with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission and the highly acclaimed 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | TT |
| Generation | TT RS Coupe (8S) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 TFSI (400 Hp) quattro S tronic |
| Start of production | November, 2016 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3-11.4 l/100 km (20.8 – 20.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4-6.6 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.2-8.4 l/100 km (28.7 – 28 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 187-192 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 3.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 3.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 3.6 kg/Hp, 277.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3 kg/Nm, 333.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 400 Hp @ 5850-7000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 161.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1700-5850 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1700-5850 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | EA855 evo / DAZA |
| Engine displacement | 2480 cm3 (151.34 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.5 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 92.8 mm (3.65 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection and Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 9.1 l (9.62 US qt | 8.01 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1440 kg (3174.66 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 305 l (10.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 712 l (25.14 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4191 mm (165 in.) |
| Width | 1832 mm (72.13 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1966 mm (77.4 in.) |
| Height | 1344 mm (52.91 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2505 mm (98.62 in.) |
| Front track | 1564 mm (61.57 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1543 mm (60.75 in.) |
| Front overhang | 893 mm (35.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 793 mm (31.22 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.96 m (35.96 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission S tronic |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 370×34 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 310×22 mm |
INTRODUCTION
The Audi TT RS Coupe (8S) 2.5 TFSI quattro S tronic, launched in late 2016, represented the culmination of Audi’s performance engineering within the compact coupe segment. Building upon the already sporty TT and TTS models, the RS variant delivered a substantial increase in power and a more focused driving experience. It served as a direct competitor to models like the Porsche 718 Cayman and BMW M2, offering a unique blend of everyday practicality and exhilarating performance. The 8S TT RS was produced for a relatively short period, ending in June 2018, making it a sought-after model among enthusiasts.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the TT RS is Audi’s 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder engine, internally designated as the EA855 evo and coded DAZA. This engine is renowned for its distinctive firing order (1-2-4-5-3) which contributes to its unique exhaust note. The engine utilizes a combination of direct injection and multi-port fuel injection to optimize combustion efficiency and power delivery. A single twin-scroll turbocharger, with an electronically controlled bypass valve, provides significant boost, generating 400 horsepower at 5850-7000 rpm and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque between 1700-5850 rpm. The engine features a cast iron crankshaft and reinforced connecting rods to handle the increased stresses. The S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers rapid and precise gear changes, enhancing the car’s acceleration capabilities. The quattro all-wheel-drive system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, providing optimal traction in various conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5 TFSI engine and S tronic transmission combine to deliver breathtaking performance. The 0-60 mph sprint is achieved in just 3.5 seconds, and the car is electronically limited to a top speed of 155 mph. The S tronic transmission’s quick shifts and the quattro system’s intelligent torque distribution contribute to exceptional acceleration and cornering ability. Compared to the standard TT’s four-cylinder engine, the RS model offers a significantly more responsive and powerful driving experience. While the manual transmission option available in some markets provided a more engaging experience for purists, the S tronic offered faster shift times and greater convenience. The gear ratios are tuned for rapid acceleration, with shorter ratios in the lower gears and a taller final drive for improved highway cruising.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The TT RS came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather with diamond stitching, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and aluminum pedal caps. The infotainment system featured a high-resolution display screen with Audi’s MMI interface. Exterior features included a unique RS honeycomb grille, large oval exhaust tailpipes, and a fixed rear spoiler. Optional extras included a Bang & Olufsen sound system, adaptive dampers, and carbon fiber interior trim. The overall interior design emphasized a driver-focused layout with high-quality materials and a sporty aesthetic.
Chassis & Braking
The TT RS features a sport-tuned suspension with McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The suspension is stiffer than that of the standard TT, providing improved handling and reduced body roll. Large ventilated disc brakes (370mm front, 310mm rear) provide ample stopping power. The RS model also featured Audi’s magnetic ride control system as an option, which allowed the driver to adjust the damping characteristics on the fly. The standard wheels were 19-inch alloys, with 20-inch wheels available as an option, fitted with performance tires.
Market Reception & Comparison
The TT RS Coupe was widely praised by automotive critics for its exceptional performance, engaging driving dynamics, and distinctive engine. It was often lauded as one of the most fun-to-drive cars in its class. Compared to the standard TT and TTS, the RS model offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy, while respectable for a high-performance car, was lower than that of the less powerful TT variants. Reliability has generally been good, although the complex turbocharging system and dual-clutch transmission require regular maintenance.
Legacy
The Audi TT RS Coupe (8S) 2.5 TFSI quattro S tronic has established itself as a modern classic among automotive enthusiasts. Its unique engine, exhilarating performance, and stylish design have made it a highly sought-after model in the used car market. The 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine is particularly revered for its distinctive sound and character. While maintenance costs can be higher than those of more mainstream vehicles, the TT RS offers a rewarding ownership experience for those seeking a high-performance sports coupe that stands out from the crowd. The 8S RS remains a benchmark for compact performance cars, demonstrating Audi’s commitment to blending performance with everyday usability.
