Hot Audi TT RS

It promises to be a real alternative to the Porsche Cayman when it goes on sale in 2008 for around 50 000 Euros. The TT RS will use a 2.5-litre in-line five-cylinder petrol unit, its first five-pot engine in ten years. Early reports indicate that Audi will boost performance to a hefty 350bhp using twin sequential turbochargers.

All this grunt will be channelled through Audi's permanent 4WD quattro system and a six-speed manual ‘box, though the DSG dual-clutch system will also be available as an option. Expect a sporty styling with bespoke wheels, alloy-effect door mirrors, aggressive bumpers, RS-batches on the brakes and sill extensions. Volkswagen's new 280bhp 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine, lined up for a hot version of Volkswagen's Passat, will be released at the same time in a more refined form, to replace the 3.2-litre V6 currently powering the range-topping TT.