The Audi TT RS Coupe (8J, facelift) with the 2.5 TFSI plus engine, producing 360 horsepower, represents the pinnacle of performance for the second-generation TT. Introduced in May 2011 and continuing through 2014, this variant was positioned as the highest-performance offering within the 8J TT lineup, exceeding the standard TT RS in both power and exclusivity. It built upon the already successful foundation of the 8J platform (shared with the Volkswagen Golf Mk5 and Audi A3), offering a more focused and aggressive driving experience. This model catered to enthusiasts seeking a compact, high-performance coupe with all-weather capability thanks to Audi’s quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Audi |
| Model | TT |
| Generation | TT RS Coupe (8J, facelift 2010) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 TFSI plus (360 Hp) quattro |
| Start of production | May, 2011 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 209 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 4.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 280 km/h (173.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4 kg/Hp, 248.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.1 kg/Nm, 320.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 360 Hp @ 5500-6700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 145.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 465 Nm @ 1650-5400 rpm (342.97 lb.-ft. @ 1650-5400 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | CEPB |
| 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 |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10 l (10.57 US qt | 8.8 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1850 kg (4078.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 400 kg (881.85 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 290 l (10.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 700 l (24.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4198 mm (165.28 in.) |
| Width | 1842 mm (72.52 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1952 mm (76.85 in.) |
| Height | 1342 mm (52.83 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2468 mm (97.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1555 mm (61.22 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Front overhang | 911 mm (35.87 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 819 mm (32.24 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.96 m (35.96 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| 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 |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 245/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 9J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the TT RS plus is the 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder engine, designated CEPB. This engine is a highly refined version of the unit found in the standard TT RS, benefiting from increased boost pressure and revised engine management software to achieve the 360 horsepower output. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection (FSI) and a low-inertia twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to minimize turbo lag and maximize responsiveness. The engine’s unique firing order (1-2-4-5-3) contributes to its distinctive, raspy exhaust note. The engine is transversely mounted, a common layout for front-wheel-drive based platforms like the 8J TT. The sole transmission option was a close-ratio 6-speed manual gearbox, chosen for its driver engagement and ability to handle the engine’s substantial torque.
Driving Characteristics
The 360 hp TT RS plus delivers exhilarating performance. The increased power output, combined with the quattro all-wheel-drive system, results in a 0-60 mph time of around 4.1 seconds and a top speed electronically limited to 174 mph (280 km/h). The manual transmission provides precise gear changes, and the short throw enhances the sporty feel. Compared to the standard TT RS (340 hp), the plus model offers noticeably stronger acceleration throughout the rev range. While the standard TT RS was already a capable performer, the plus version felt significantly more urgent and responsive. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction, particularly in adverse weather conditions, making it a usable performance car year-round.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The TT RS plus came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in Nappa leather with contrasting stitching, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum pedal caps, and unique RS badging throughout the cabin. Exterior enhancements included a distinctive RS front bumper with a honeycomb grille, side skirts, a rear diffuser, and an adjustable rear spoiler. Optional extras included carbon fiber interior trim, Bang & Olufsen sound system, and various exterior color options. The overall interior ambiance was focused on a sporty and premium experience.
Chassis & Braking
The TT RS plus featured a sport-tuned suspension with firmer dampers and springs compared to the standard TT. The front suspension utilized McPherson struts, while the rear employed a multi-link setup. Larger ventilated disc brakes were standard on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The braking system was further enhanced by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic brake-force distribution. The chassis was designed to provide a balance between sporty handling and everyday comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The TT RS plus was well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, handling, and distinctive character. It was often compared to rivals such as the Porsche Cayman and BMW Z4. While the Porsche Cayman offered a more focused driving experience, the TT RS plus provided a unique blend of performance, practicality, and all-weather capability. Fuel economy, while not a primary concern for buyers in this segment, was reasonable for a high-performance car, averaging around 26 mpg combined. Reliability was generally good, although the complex engine required diligent maintenance.
Legacy
The Audi TT RS plus (8J) remains a sought-after vehicle in the used car market. Its combination of performance, style, and relative rarity has made it a collector’s item. The 2.5-liter inline-five engine is known for its durability when properly maintained, although preventative maintenance, particularly regarding the timing chain, is crucial. The TT RS plus represents a high point in the 8J TT lineage, offering a thrilling driving experience that continues to appeal to enthusiasts today. Its unique engine note and distinctive styling ensure it stands out from the crowd.
