V8 power for ultimate TT?

Can you guess what engine is in this hot new Audi TT? There’s a clue written on the billboard behind it!

Although Audi denies it is planning to build an RS version of its small coupé, our spy photographers claim that this car’s exhaust note was virtually identical to the roar of the 414bhp V8 in the RS4 saloon. And if you look closely at the rear bumper in our pictures, you will see the TT has similar large oval tailpipes, too.

Only last week, our spies caught Audi’s engineers putting the sporty new S version of the TT through its paces. It uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged unit tuned to about 276bhp, and would sit below the V8-powered RS in the range.

However, both models have a similar S line front bumper, which features two huge air intakes either side of the trademark Audi grille. Smart LED daytime running lamps, similar to those fitted to the R8 super­car, provide a distinctive look. Mean­while, at the back, the hot new TT features a diffuser-style bumper for improved aerodynamics.

An RS is guaranteed to offer outstanding performance. The heavier RS4 can complete the sprint from 0-62mph in only 4.8 seconds and goes on to reach a top speed limited to 155mph – so the smaller coupé should be even faster.

In the past, to avoid stepping on the toes of the all-new R8 supercar, Audi has rejected any suggestion that an RS version of the more compact two-door would be made. And as yet, there’s still no official confirmation of the existence of the most exciting TT ever. But, with a two-year waiting list for the R8, it’s possible that top brass at the German brand may have had a change of heart.