Audi TT RS: First Official Images

The first official shots of the 2010 Audi TT RS, set to debut in Geneva, reveal a sportier appearance to match the turbocharged 340 HP 2.5-liter inline-five cylinder engine.

Audi has just dropped a press release which in a previous age could have been easily mistaken as one from Bentley or Rolls-Royce. Acceleration is described as "Nowhere near five seconds to reach 100 km/h," passing is called "child's play" and the brakes are "stupendous." Marketingspeak aside, we now have official confirmation of the return of an Audi five-cylinder. This 340 HP turbocharged direct injection 2.5-liter I5 mated to an all-wheel-drive system which will no-doubt be "adequate" when marched around the twisty bits. We'll be getting more all details when the car is unveiled next month at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

The Audi TT RS: Sporty Powerhouse with Five Cylinders

* This top model will debut at the Geneva Auto Show
* Direct gasoline injection and a turbocharger deliver far more than 300 bhp
* Top-notch chassis, big brakes, and quattro drivetrain

Audi is once again producing a five-cylinder powerhouse: the Audi TT RS will be unveiled to the world at the Geneva Auto Show. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces well above 300 bhp. It also delivers explosive acceleration, driving delight, and unrivaled sound.

A legend is reborn. After all, powerful five-cylinder gasoline engines have a long legacy at Audi. And the turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engine in the TT RS is the new torchbearer of this dynamic tradition. It enables the TT RS to perform extraordinary feats. For example, it needs nowhere near five seconds to reach 100 km/h (62.14 mph); overtaking is child's play; and 250 km/h (155.34 mph) is the limited top speed only on paper.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, a sophisticated chassis, and stupendous brakes keep a tight rein on the power. All in all, the compact TT RS - with its lightweight and largely aluminum body constructed as per the Audi Space Frame principle - is a driving machine to be reckoned with.

Additional information will be available during the Audi Press Conference at the Geneva Auto Show on March 3, 2009 (Hall 1, Booth 1060).