That's right, the all-new Audi TT RS Coupe and Convertible are in production. Not only have the Germans amassed dozens of them in Spain for the test event, but we can also take you behind the scenes at Audi Hungary, where all the nuts and bolts stuff happen.
Audi's central-European factory in Gyor is responsible for assembly most of the compact car lineup, almost all of which is based on the MQB platform. Hungary is also where Audi makes many of its engines, including some of the performance powerhouses (V10 block).
Although the TT RS is based on the regular TT, its assembly is a lot more complex. There are numerous options available, such as carbon fiber trim and body-colored interiors.
In addition, the 2.5 TFSI is the biggest, most powerful engine fitted to any MQB-based car at the moment. The 7-speed twin-clutch matched to it is also designed to handle a harsher pounding than the 6-speed installed on the TTS.
The second exclusive video shows how that new 400 horsepower 5-cylinder engine is made. Some of the work is done by robots with exquisite precision.
As for the footage from the TT RS assembly line, there's nothing in particular to get excited. Skilled technicians are assisted by heavy machinery that takes care of lifting heavy parts such as the dashboard, alloy wheels or the complete powertrain.
After assembly, the TT RS goes through rolling road testing and a quality inspection. So far, we haven't been able to make a machine that sees flaws the way a human eye does. As many dealers will tell you, cars don't actually have 0 miles when you get them, which is why break-in periods are a thing of the past.
Like most specialist tools, the TT RS won't be readily available through inventory. The upside is that you should be able to configure something that looks like a mini supercar. The downside is that you'll be waiting a few months for your €60,000 quattro toy to arrive.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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