2012 Audi TT RS Overview

For 2012, the Audi TT is offered in both a coupe and roadster body style, both of which are built on Audi's improved aluminum space frame chassis, consists of 69% aluminum and 31% steel construction, making it both lightweight and incredibly stiff.

Audi's signature quattro all-wheel-drive system is the only drivetrain available across the lineup. In addition, Audi's S-Tronic 6-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is now the only available gearbox on the TT and the TTS.

Both the TT and upscale TTS feature a healthy array of standard equipment, including a "Audi Concert" audio system, a driver information system and an automatic climate control system in the coupe.

Optional xenon plus headlamps are available with a cornering and both the TT and TTS are again available with Audi's S-line sport package, consisting of special design touches to the bumpers, air inlets and rear diffuser, special interior detailing, unique 18-inch wheels and a 10-mm lower ride height. Optional magnetic ride shocks can be switched between "normal" and "sport" modes and a sport button modifies steering boost and exhaust sound. Optional napa leather gains a new thermal resistance treatment that cuts down on seat temperature significantly when left in the sun.

A high-performance model was introduced for 2012, called the RS. It features a 360-horsepower 5-cylinder engine mated to a 6-speed manual, the only transmission option. Audi's magnetic ride suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, xenon HID headlamps and silk napa leather upholstery are all standard.

2012 Audi TT RS Model Changes

For 2012, Audi adds a high-performance RS model to the lineup. It features a 2.5L direct-injected 5-cylinder engine that makes 360 horsepower. It runs with Audi's quattro all-wheel drive and a 6-speed manual transmission. The RS is capable of getting to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds. The other TT models did not see major changes.

2012 Audi TT RS Value

Underneath its iconic easily recognizable exterior, the TT is based on Audi's sturdy passenger car platform with quattro all-wheel-drive, making it a superb all-weather handler, yet it maintains good all around performance, with the turbocharged 2.0L engine pushing it to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds--faster than both the Mercedes-Benz SLK 300 and the BMW Z4. The new-for 2012 TT RS has a 360 horsepower 5-cylinder engine that offers intense performance in the same compact package. The new model's base price of under $60,000 makes it a great performance value.

2012 Audi TT RS Strengths

Iconic styling; quattro all-wheel-drive; new high-performance model