Next-Gen TT RS to Arrive in 2016 Boasting 400 Ponies

2016 Audi TT (Credit: © Audi)

When the new-generation TT debuted recently, it was lacking one member of the family: the TT RS. Well, according to a new report form Car and Driver, the TT RS will arrive in 2016, but with some relatively dramatic mechanical changes, one of which traditionalists will hate.

Let’s get the sad news out of the way first. The 2017 Audi TT RS will come standard with a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox and there will be no manual transmission option. Some may think this is great news, as this transmission is the same slick-shifting unit that the incredible RS 3 Sportback uses in Europe, but there is something about rowing your own gears that pulling a paddle just can’t match.

Though the manual won’t be available at launch, don’t be surprised if Audi gets enough flack for dropping it that it becomes a no-cost option later in the model year. That is, as long as there are no mechanical issues preventing the manual as an option.

Another big change is the output of the TT RS. For the 2017 model year, the Audi TT RS will continue with an updated version of its EA113 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine that produces around 400 horsepower. Given it ends up at an even 400 ponies, that would mark a 40-horsepower gain over the last TT RS.

The report did not include any details regarding pricing or release date, but we should start learning about that soon, as Audi has been very early with releasing information on new models lately. There was also no mention of what visual changes the TT RS has in store, but any fan of the TT RS of year’s past knows pretty much what to expect.

We’ll bring you more details as they roll out, so stay tuned.