The 2017 Audi Tt RS marks a significant step up in the iconic TT lineage, transforming it from a stylish coupe into a formidable performance machine. My first encounter with the 2017 Audi TT RS was anything but ordinary, setting the stage for an exhilarating experience. It wasn’t due to getting lost leaving the Jarama Racing Circuit near Madrid, our base for the day – although that did happen, and I momentarily blamed the navigation system, a common reflex for any car journalist. Truthfully, it was more about immersing myself in the nuances of this high-performance vehicle, even though I was already quite familiar with Audi’s Virtual Cockpit, having driven numerous models equipped with it throughout the year.
The roundabout confusion, likely a quirky Spanish design, became a minor anecdote as I found myself cruising down the Autopista in the 2017 Audi TT RS Roadster. The roof was down, the Spanish autumn sun was generous, and I was joined by another journalist in an ‘Ara Blue’ TT RS. Driving in tandem, we got a fantastic view of these vibrant two-seaters as we headed towards more demanding mountain roads, the initial navigational hiccup quickly fading into a shared driving adventure.
The Audi TT, in general, was somewhat uncharted territory for me. I hadn’t had much personal experience with it, especially behind the wheel. This particular afternoon in Spain was set to change that, aimed at showcasing the full potential of the TT’s most powerful iteration: the RS. Arriving early allowed me some precious extra time to familiarize myself with the car before the main drive. Among the perfectly aligned test vehicles, the ‘Nardo Grey’ roadster immediately caught my eye. Nardo Grey, an exclusive Audi RS color, has a unique appeal that resonates with me personally.
First Impressions: Design and Aesthetics
The 2017 Audi TT RS instantly projects a muscular and compact presence. Audi’s contemporary design language manifests in sharp, aggressive lines, giving this two-seater a distinctly assertive front fascia. This is further enhanced by optional matrix LED headlights and a robust front splitter proudly displaying the Quattro logo. I found the paint-matched splitter on the Nardo Grey model particularly appealing compared to the contrasting white splitters on the Ara Blue and Catalunya Red versions.
The side profile is equally striking. The optional 20-inch wheels, impressively large for the TT’s compact dimensions (just over 4 meters long), contribute significantly to its stance. The rear design, while more substantial than the sharply sculpted front, maintains a high level of detail and refinement. The brand-new OLED taillights are a standout feature, a first for a production Audi, with their dynamic square patterns creating a captivating visual signature. A subtle rear wing adds a touch of sportiness without being overly aggressive, and the signature RS twin-oval exhaust pipes leave no doubt about its performance pedigree.
Interior and In-Car Technology
Assessing the interior of the 2017 Audi TT RS Roadster was effortless, thanks to the open top. The saddle-brown interior bathed in sunlight looked exceptional. It provided a luxurious contrast to the Nardo Grey exterior, enhancing the convertible’s premium feel. While saddle brown is a great choice for the Roadster, opting for sporty black interiors might be more fitting for the slightly more performance-focused coupé.
Audi has equipped the TT RS with a comprehensive list of optional extras, allowing owners to personalize their sports car. My test vehicle was equipped with quilted leather sport seats and generous carbon fiber inlays. These are the kind of premium options often seen in the R8, making their availability in the TT RS a pleasant surprise, elevating its luxury and sporty appeal.
Settling into the driver’s seat, which shares design cues with the R8, I encountered some minor ergonomic challenges. At 1.88m (6’2”), I found myself quickly reaching the lowest seating position without achieving my preferred steering wheel height. This slightly limited legroom and overall comfort. While I’m uncertain if this is due to the car’s compact size, I’ve generally found Audi interiors to be accommodating in other models.
Navigating the infotainment system revealed another design choice. The 2017 Audi TT RS forgoes a traditional pop-up display in favor of Audi’s Virtual Cockpit (VC) system. The 12.3-inch TFT screen, replacing conventional instruments, is intuitive and controllable via both the center console and, more conveniently, the steering wheel. The TT RS steering wheel itself is compact and features a striking red start/stop button, along with an integrated drive mode selector.
The Heart of the Beast: Engine and Performance
Pressing the start button ignites the 2017 Audi TT RS’s five-cylinder engine with a robust growl. I was advised to explore the ‘sport exhaust’ button, promising an even more aggressive sound, potentially rivaling the powerful RS6 Avant. Initially skeptical, any doubts about the car’s acoustics vanished the moment I activated the exhaust valves. The sound is genuinely exhilarating.
The 2.5 TFSI engine is a masterpiece, celebrating its 40th anniversary and boasting numerous ‘engine of the year’ awards. Its unique character is something Audi continuously refines with each new iteration. In an era of increasingly efficient turbocharged four-cylinder engines, Audi’s dedication to the five-cylinder in its entry-level RS models is commendable. It sets them apart from competitors who have largely adopted downsizing strategies.
Audi’s commitment to the 2.5 TFSI is evident in its continuous improvement. Engineers at the event mentioned that this version is significantly different (up to 60%) from the one in the then-current Audi RS3. The engine now delivers 400 hp, a considerable increase from the previous 340 hp, along with 480 Nm of torque. A new aluminum casting contributes to a 26 kg weight reduction, enhancing the 2017 Audi TT RS’s agility.
Driving Dynamics: Road and Track
As indicated by the Quattro badge, the 2017 Audi TT RS features all-wheel drive as standard. This, combined with the weight reduction and power boost, makes the 2017 model the fastest TT RS to date, reaching a top speed of 280 km/h and accelerating from 0-100 km/h in just 3.7 seconds (3.9 seconds for the Roadster). At the Jarama Circuit, we experienced the car’s launch control, which was truly impressive.
Having experienced electric vehicle acceleration, I was initially less easily impressed by rapid acceleration figures. However, the 2017 Audi TT RS managed to deliver a surprising punch. Despite being turbocharged, throttle response felt remarkably immediate.
Back on the Spanish highway, the exhaust notes of my TT RS and the accompanying Ara Blue model created a delightful symphony. With the top down and valves open, the soundtrack was immersive, though wind interference became noticeable above 120 km/h. While highway cruising was reasonably comfortable, my height did become a factor in open-top driving. Despite the wind deflector, airflow over the top of my head became somewhat intrusive at higher speeds.
Exiting the highway brought calmer breezes, more conducive to open-top enjoyment. The automatic soft-top can be deployed in just 10 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h. Preferring the open air, I shifted the 7-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission into manual mode for a spirited drive through the Spanish countryside.
The 2017 Audi TT RS exhibited remarkable agility in corners, benefiting from improved weight distribution. The front end felt lighter than expected, and the torque vectoring system facilitated sharp cornering. The steering, however, felt slightly over-assisted, lacking some of the desired feedback. The car’s technology and driving aids are prominent, making it incredibly easy to drive, perhaps a touch too refined for those seeking raw engagement.
It’s almost too perfect, which is ideal for drivers seeking a highly capable yet accessible sports car. However, it might appeal less to hardcore enthusiasts who appreciate the nuances and challenges of a less-assisted driving experience, perhaps even wanting to induce controlled slides through corners. To explore the TT RS’s capabilities further, I had the opportunity to take it on the Jarama Circuit for a brief three-lap session.
A pre-track presentation highlighted the performance gains over the previous TT RS generation. The new model demonstrated improved lap times across various track sections and enhanced power delivery. While the launch control experience already confirmed its performance potential, I was keen to see how the 2017 Audi TT RS behaved with reduced electronic intervention.
After two familiarization laps behind a safety car, it was time for three hot laps. With ESP deactivated, the TT RS felt slightly more playful, maintaining sharp turn-in and excellent traction thanks to Quattro. It’s undeniably efficient and potent, capable of making even less experienced drivers feel like track professionals. The Audi team has achieved something truly impressive with the new TT RS.
Competition and Conclusion
The 2017 Audi TT RS enters a competitive segment, facing rivals like the BMW M2. However, its performance places it in a higher bracket, competing with the Porsche 718 Cayman S and even, in terms of performance, the Chevrolet Corvette. A key differentiator is that its competitors are predominantly rear-wheel drive, which might appeal more to purists, even if less efficient.
The 2017 Audi TT RS not only matches the performance of cars like the Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche Cayman S, but also aligns with them in price. Starting at €67,000 for the coupé and €69,000 for the roadster in Germany, it offers class-leading performance and efficiency. The question remains: is it as engaging to drive as its rear-wheel-drive counterparts? The 2017 Audi TT RS delivers exceptional performance and refinement, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a high-performance sports car with everyday usability and advanced technology.
