quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 394 hp 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 394 hp 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 394 hp 7AM)
quattro 2dr Coupe AWD (2.5L 5cyl 394 hp 7AM)
The Audi TT RS is the performance-oriented sports coupe of the TT line-up. The Audi TT RS is a flashy sports coupe with a mighty engine base and terrific handling, all of which you would expect from a German automotive giant. The 2021 TT RS was on the verge of extinction, but Audi brought the car back to life with loads of standard features to look forward to. Beliefs ran rife that Audi will ditch the TT line-up in favor of crossovers and EVs.
The 2021 Audi TT RS has to sweat it out for a stronghold in the retail though. With its contemporaries like Chevrolet Corvette and Porsche 718 Cayman bossing the game, will the TT RS emerge as the dark horse? The price for the 2021 model will start at $66,970 and is more expensive than its rivals. However, the price is justified by a better features list, an all-wheel drive and a decent amount of power.
"With big power and aggressive styling, the TT RS is flashy and quick, but it's less charismatic than expected." - Car and Driver
Audi keeps things simple by displaying just one trim level for the dedicated TT RS fanbase. This trim will start around an estimate of $72,500 with a plethora of smart technology features and active safety features. Audi tries to make the TT RS worth every penny at its competitive price. You can still opt for customization packages, which will be the same as that of 2020.
The 2021 Audi TT RS base trim comes stuffed with brand new aspects like sporty Nappa leather upholstery, smartphone interface, MMI navigation, and a classy Audi Connect infotainment system. The intricate exterior and interior design packages shape your car as a reflection of your personality.
Model |
TT RS Coupe |
---|---|
MSRP |
$72,500 |
Key Features |
2.5 Liter Turbo I-5 |
Quattro all-wheel-drive |
|
Front and rear parking sensors |
|
B&O 9-Speaker sound system |
|
Daytime running lights |
|
Emergency brake assist |
|
Hands-free entry |
|
12.3-inch driver display and infotainment |
The Audi TT RS has just one trim level, leaving us no choice but to go ahead with the base trim itself. However, you can rig some customization packages like the Technology package, which brings some high-tech features like MMI Navigation Plus and many more to the play. If you crave an even sportier theme, adorn the Dynamic package which gives the Audi sporty exterior visuals. We recommend buying the Technology package along with your base TT RS.
"The seven-speed is more than willing to downshift as soon as you demand extra power, and the TT RS surges forward with such immediacy and force that you may think you've been sucked into a wormhole." - Car and Driver
Powering our favorite Audi is a 2.5-liter TFSI engine, the 2021 Audi TT RS is priced at $72,500. This 5-pot engine churns out 394 hp of power and 354 lb-ft of torque. In return, you get a breezy sports coupe performance which gives even high-end Porsches a run for their money. The drivetrain is a capable Quattro all-wheel-drive, a unique sub-brand that is a trademark of Audi.
With its precise grip and torque distribution, the Quattro AWD enhances handling on any grim weather day. The Audi TT RS is hooked to a sleek 7-speed auto-shift transmission, which powers the engine with minimum efforts. With an ability to reach the 60 mph mark in just 3.9 seconds the 2021 Audi TT is probably the fastest in its class.
Models |
2021 Audi TT RS 2.5 TFSI |
2021 BMW M2 Competition |
2021 Chevrolet Corvette 1LT Stingray Coupe |
2021 Porsche 718 Cayman Coupe |
---|---|---|---|---|
MSRP |
$72,500 |
$58,900 |
$60,995 |
$60,500 |
Engine |
2.5L Turbocharged Inline-5 |
3.0L Twin-Turbo Inline-6 |
6.2L V-8 |
2.0L Turbocharged H-4 |
Drivetrain |
AWD |
RWD |
RWD |
RWD |
Transmission |
7-speed DCT |
6-speed manual/7-speed DCT |
8-speed DCT |
6-speed manual/ PDK |
Power (hp@RPM) |
394 hp@ 6000 RPM |
405 hp@ 5230 RPM |
490 hp@ 6450 RPM |
300 hp@ 6500 RPM |
Torque (lb-ft @ RPM) |
354 lb-ft@ 2000 RPM |
406 lb-ft@ 2350 RPM |
465 lb-ft@ 5150 RPM |
280 lb-ft@ 1950 RPM |
0-60 MPH (sec) |
3.6 seconds |
4.0 seconds |
2.9 seconds |
4.9 seconds |
Quarter Mile (sec) |
11.9 seconds |
12.45 seconds |
11.3 seconds |
12.3 seconds |
Top Speed (MPH) |
155 MPH |
156 MPH |
194 MPH |
170 MPH |
60-0 MPH (Feet) |
154 feet |
155 (70-0) feet |
137 feet |
142 feet |
The engine of the 2021 Audi TT RS posted competitive power and torque figures. Still, it fell out compared to Corvette’s class-leading figures of 490 hp and 465 lb-ft of torque. It is pretty much on par the BMW M2 and has more power to offer than the Porsche 718 Cayman. The 2.5-liter TFSI engine of the Audi TT RS has been a fan favorite.
Equally crucial is the braking performance, with a 14.6-inch front caliper and a 12.2-inch rear caliper to stop your car in dire situations. The Audi TT RS’s pace and acceleration reigned at the top of the charts, merely to be beaten by the vigorous Corvette. The Audi TT RS fared poorly, with its braking distance of 154 feet being the lowest in the class.
"Don't let the uncompromising performance fool you; the TT RS's turbo five-cylinder is quite efficient." - Car and Driver
Fuel economy is on every client’s wish list while buying a new car. However, cars in the sports coupe category may leave you hungry for more fuel stops. The Audi TT RS acts no different and has a decent MPG offering as per 2021 official reports from Audi. Still, its MPG numbers are arguably the finest in its class, beating every other competitor. Pair that with a 14.5-gallon tank capacity and you get an impressive range of 275 miles in the city and 429 miles on a highway.
Model |
2021 Audi TT RS |
2021 BMW M2 |
2021 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe |
2021 Porsche 718 Cayman |
---|---|---|---|---|
MPG (City) |
20 |
18 |
15 |
NA |
MPG (Highway) |
30 |
24 |
27 |
NA |
MPG (Combined) |
24 |
20 |
19 |
NA |
Fuel Capacity |
14.5 |
13.7 |
18.5 |
14.2 |
Range (City/Hwy/Combined) |
275.5/420.5/333.5 |
246.6/342.5/274 |
277.5/500/351.5 |
321.1/422.5/355 |
The Corvette has the worst fuel economy in its class but the best range, all thanks to its humongous fuel tank capacity of 18.5 gallons. The Audi TT RS is the most fuel-efficient of the lot, however, its smaller tank means more stops at gas stations. We surprisingly find the beemer with the smallest fuel tank capacity, a mere 13.7 gallons. The gas mileage of the 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman is unknown as of now but based on the previous makes we do believe the gas mileage to be at least about average if not better.
"The 2021 Audi TT caters best to a driver and no one else." - The Car Connection
The 2021 Audi TT RS demands respect for its polished and organized interiors. They make the interiors of premium quality materials exclusive to German manufacturers, the 2021 Audi TT RS offers this luxury at $72,500. They decorate the interiors with exquisite Nappa leather upholstery, which adds to the luxury of the cabin.
The front row of the cabin is a marvelous place to be in, with adequate legroom and shoulder room. However, the interiors lose some of their practicality with the rear row that feels constrained and obnoxious. Creature comforts include heated seats, power windows, and an intuitive steering wheel, which cater to your convenience.
Model |
2021 Audi TT RS |
2020 BMW M2 |
2020 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe |
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman |
---|---|---|---|---|
Seating Capacity |
4 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
Front Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
37.1/53.6/41.1 |
40.1/53.4/41.5 |
38/54.4/42.8 |
37.2/53.2/42.0 |
Rear Row (Head/Shoulder/Leg) (in) |
33.8/47.1/28.9 |
36.5/54.4/33 |
- |
- |
Cargo Space (cu. Ft.) |
12.0 |
13.8 |
12.6 |
14.9 |
The Audi TT RS offers a trunk space of 12 cubic feet, which may be adequate to fit in 2 large suitcases. It has a seating capacity of 4 individuals, unlike the 2-seater Corvette or 718 Cayman. The 2021 Audi TT RS has a wide base of entertainment facilities. The 12.3-inch cockpit display brings driver and visual info to your fingertips. The B&O 9-speaker system is a groovy bonus to a classy cabin, spreading your tunes all over the cabin.
The infotainment also supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay integration. They also assure navigation, with MMI navigation guiding you through the best routes. The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette stingray with the largest engine compromises the cargo space offering, limiting it to 12.6 cubic feet. On the other hand, the 2021 Porsche 718 Cayman offers the most cargo space, measuring 14.9 cubic feet.
"The 2021 Audi TT retains an iconic look that hasn’t changed much since it debuted." - The Car Connection
The Audi TT RS is smaller than most of its sports coupe compatriots, which works to its advantage. The looks are curvy and appealing to the eye, which is a sight to behold on the hard roads. Audi decorates the front fascia with its trademark 4 ring logo and sharp LED headlights. Priced at $72,500 the Iron man inspired Quattro has a familiar look to many, even amongst the non-enthusiast.
The rear end has a smooth trajectory like a parabola and a rear spoiler giving the TT RS aerodynamic excellence. The Dynamic package presents a sporty dimension to the Audi TT RS, with snazzy 7-spoke Audi Sport wheels composed of titanium. The Black optic package is made for the gentleman, with black surface finishes and exclusive visual upgrades.
Model |
2021 Audi TT RS |
2020 BMW M2 |
2020 Chevrolet Corvette Coupe |
2020 Porsche 718 Cayman |
---|---|---|---|---|
Curb Weight (lbs) |
3296 lbs |
3600 lbs |
3535 lbs |
3034 lbs |
Length (inches) |
165” |
176.2” |
182.3” |
172.4” |
Width (inches) |
77.4" |
73” |
76.1” |
70.9” |
Height (inches) |
52.9” |
55.5” |
48.6” |
51” |
Ground Clearance (inches) |
5.3” |
NA |
5.3” |
4.3” |
Wheelbase (inches) |
98.6” |
106” |
107.2” |
97.4” |
The Audi TT RS is a compact sports coupe. Its dimensions are smaller than the average sports coupe, which lends its lighter curb weight. It possesses a noble ground clearance of 5.3 inches and a wide wheelbase. Speaking of dimensions, the 2021 model will have the same dimension as the 2020 model since not much has changed mechanically in the car.
"There's not much in the way of available driver-assistance tech for the TT RS, either." - Car and Driver
Safety is an assured factor with every German sports car, be it Audi or Mercedes-Benz. The Audi TT RS has undergone zero safety tests yet. But you can rest the obligations of your safety upon Audi’s shoulders, as the TT RS comes with a stack of active safety features.
Notable features include a rearview camera, front and rear parking sensors, automatic LED headlights, and rain-sensing wipers. Blind-spot monitoring is also available at extra cost. Drive the Audi TT RS with a sense of responsibility, rather than recklessness, for your own security. The other features are:
The 5-cylinder Audi goes against the 6-cylinder BMW, and the BMW takes advantage of its extra cylinder by arguably beating the Audi in terms of horsepower and torque. But the TT RS emerges quicker in this duel by a fine margin. The handling of the TT RS feels inert while compared to the M2, with the M2 having a driver-friendly cruise. The interiors of the M2 are more spacious too, giving it a modest edge over the TT RS.
The 2021 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray has a monstrous engine that makes every competitor taste the dust. The Audi TT RS has a premium cabin though, with prime quality materials and impressive entertainment. The fuel economy of the Corvette is poor, thanks to overcompensating power over fuel management. The Audi feels much more economical to run in the long run, while the Corvette has a better reliability rating.
The Porsche’s weak engine response may give the TT RS a dominating lead with its vigorous engine power. However, the 718 Cayman takes handling to the next level with a delicate and agile turning response. The TT RS is nowhere near the 718 in terms of handling. But the Audi TT RS outclasses the 718 on the racing field with its agile speed and acceleration. Both cars have their powerful points.
The 2021 Audi TT RS is a well-rounded coupe with lavish interiors and a robust engine. The fuel economy is also class-leading. Maintenance of the Audi TT RS is also flexible, thanks to its friendly customer service and reliable warranty coverage. It is a jewel of a sports coupe and should be on every driver’s shopping cart. The Audi TT RS is a refreshing change for the usual Porsche 718 or Corvette buyers and it comes at a price of just $72,500.