The original Audi TT RS arrived on U.S. shores in 2012 thanks to over 11,500 petitions from Audi fans. Back then, the raced-out version of Audi’s TT model pushed out 360 hp out of its unique turbocharged 5-cylinder engine and critics raved about it.

Fast forward to today, and the current TT RS has a new look, a revised engine and it’s going the way of the dodo pretty soon. That’s right, the Audi TT will be continued soon enough, so now is a great time to get into an Audi TT RS before they end production.

New Look

The Audi TT RS was refreshed for the 2019 model year with a more aggressive look thanks to a single-frame honeycomb grille. The update isn’t all for looks, though, as behind the grille lie additional radiators for extra cooling and the new lateral air ducts extend to the front wheel wells for brake cooling.

The TT RS now comes standard with LED headlights and tail lights along with a redesigned front splitter and fixed rear spoiler. The TT RS comes standard with 19-inch wheels, while 20-inch wheels are available via a new Dynamic Package which also adds a sport exhaust system and red brake calipers. Rounding out the new look are new colors including Turbo Blue, Tango Red, and Kyalami Green.

5-cylinder engine

The 2.5-liter, 5-cylinder engine in the TT RS is basically the same one found in the current Audi RS3. That, of course, doesn’t make it any less special. In fact, when the Audi TT RS came out, it had the same then, it just produced less horsepower. So rather than scrap the whole thing, Audi decided to build on perfection by massaging the power output to 394 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque.

This equates to a 0-60 time of about 3.6 seconds, which is very quick. In our eyes, the TT RS might be one of the only cars on the market that has the power and speed to back up its race-car look, thanks to its race-car heritage.

7-speed dual-clutch transmission

The original Audi TT RS was only available with a six-speed manual transmission, thanks again to everyone that signed the petition. Now, in its latest iteration, the Audi TT RS is only available with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Yes, we can hear the “boos” from here, although, it’s not a bad transmission to have.

It’s actually up one gear from the previous transmission offered and, let’s not forget, that the dual-clutch transmission to shift faster than any human. We dare you to try.

Get one if you can

If you do have the funds to spare for a 2020 Audi TT RS, which has a starting MSRP of $66,900 (excluding destination), then we say buy one. Audi will be going to all-electric vehicles and hybrids in the future.  

Soon enough, it will be rarer than the Audi TT V6 that once existed and you can brag to your neighbor and your friends that you have one of the last Audis that has 5 cylinders, drives all 4 wheels, and can get to 60 mph in around 3 seconds.