Autoblog

Hagerty predicts this year's future classics

Zach Bowman — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Classics, Etc., Audi, Buick, Chevrolet, Dodge, Ford, Jeep, Nissan, Porsche, Volkswagen

The world would be considerably less entertaining if we could all predict the future. Even so, the classic car gurus at Hagerty Insurance have cast a few chicken bones in an attempt to figure out which vehicles produced today might eventually turn collectible.

The company restricted entrants to hardware with a price tag of less than $100,000, so the list isn't populated with too many wild exotics. While vehicles like the Nissan GT-R Black Edition, Ford Mustang Boss 302 Laguna Seca Edition, Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Porsche 911 are low-hanging fruit, the list also featured a few surprises.

For starters, it begins with none other than the mighty Buick Regal GS. Hagerty says the vehicle is a win because it's the first Buick with a manual transmission since the fall of the Holy Roman Empire. The Fiat 500 Abarth also makes an appearance alongside an even hotter hatch, the Volkswagen Golf R. Of course, we're simply thrilled to see the sinister Audi TT RS make a showing. Hit the jump for the full list or view each vehicle in our gallery above.

Continue reading Hagerty predicts this year's future classics

Hagerty predicts this year's future classics originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 30 Jan 2012 18:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi to preview next TT at Tokyo Motor Show?

Noah Joseph — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Tokyo Motor Show, Audi, Luxury

When the first Audi TT hit the market in 1998, its design was nothing short of revolutionary. The current model (pictured above in RS form), while dynamically superior, has been mainstreamed a bit, going with a more evolutionary approach. But now, rumor has it that Audi is preparing to launch an all-new third-generation model at the rapidly approaching Tokyo Motor Show, and our interests our piqued.

Little in the way of details is known as to the direction Audi is preparing to take with the new TT, but sources expect it to go slightly upmarket in order to make room for a smaller, less costly R4 mid-engined sportscar. The TT, however, is expected to retain its front-engine, all-wheel-drive layout. Stylistically, we'd expect the new TT to adopt some of the design cues laid down by recently concept cars like the Quattro from last year.

Audi, for its part, is staying mum on the subject, announcing the five-door A1 Sportback as its major debut for the Japanese expo. Whether a new TT - be it in concept form or production-ready - will join it remains to be seen.

Audi to preview next TT at Tokyo Motor Show? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi developing lighter, more powerful TT RS Plus?

Noah Joseph — Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Audi

What's better than a 360-horsepower Audi TT RS? Well, not a whole heck of a lot, as we recently found while test-driving the pint-sized beast on American soil. But how about a TT RS Plus with more power and less weight? Now that's the ticket.

Rumors pouring in from overseas suggest that Audi is preparing to upgrade the coupe's 2.5-liter turbo five to 385 horsepower and removing some 130 pounds worth of extra weight - like the rear seats, for a start. Given that the current version already runs the 0-60 in 4.1 seconds, dropping that time into the threes wouldn't be out of the question.

Of course with the TT RS still making its way to these shores, we wouldn't hold our breath for the Plus version. One supercar-trouncing super-coupe at a time, right?

Audi developing lighter, more powerful TT RS Plus? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Oct 2011 11:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Audi TT RS

Zach Bowman — Wed, 19 Oct 2011 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Europe, Audi, First Drives, Luxury

Planting The RS Flag On American Soil

Audi has made it clear that it's only a matter of time before we finally get the chance to enjoy a wider slice of the company's RS offerings in the United States. The German automaker has already confirmed that next year will see the arrival of the RS5, and additional models are presently being discussed for U.S. introductions.

But Audi has already fired the first shot in its effort to redefine what the RS badge means to American consumers with its 2012 TT RS. With 360 horsepower squeezed from a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine and just 3,300 pounds to sling around the track, the coupe isn't just the best TT ever made, it's possibly the most desirable steed in the Audi stable at the moment.

We can already hear the clattering of a thousand keyboards banging out something along the lines of, "OMG R8 STFU," but allow us to elaborate. With a power-to-weight ratio of 9.2 pounds per horsepower, a top speed of 174 mph and a conservative 0-60 mph time of 4.1 seconds, the TT-RS is a pitch-perfect weapon. So perfect, in fact, that Audi officials admit that the meanest of the TT clan can outpace its R8 brethren on most tracks unless the eight cylinder gets a straight long enough to properly stretch its legs.

Do we have your attention? Did we mention that the 2012 TT RS is only available with a manual transmission? How about now?

Continue reading 2012 Audi TT RS

2012 Audi TT RS originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First 2012 Audi TT RS delivered in Texas

Steven J. Ewing — Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:31:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Audi

Ladies and gentlemen, the 2012 Audi TT RS has officially landed in the United States. And there was much rejoicing.

Audi has announced that one Don Istook has purchased the very first American-spec TT RS from Fort Worth Audi in Texas. Istook is a longtime Audi enthusiast, having raced Quattro coupes in the mid-1980s, and in more recent times, S4 and TT models.

The 2012 Audi TT RS is priced from $56,580 (excluding $875 for destination), and it marks the return of the automaker's RS performance line to Yankeeland. The last RS model available on these shores was the RS4 (rest in peace, you stunner). The TT RS will no doubt continue the tradition of Audi's performance monsters, boasting 360 horsepower and 343 pound-feet of torque from its 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine. Follow the jump for the official press blast.

Continue reading First 2012 Audi TT RS delivered in Texas

First 2012 Audi TT RS delivered in Texas originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 27 Jul 2011 16:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Big Daddy Audi A8 L W12 priced from $133,500*

Jeff Glucker — Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Audi

The paint is still drying on the 2011 Audi A8, but the Four-Ring automaker is already ready to roll out its 2012 lineup. A8 fans can now say hello a familiar variant of the flagship sedan which was missing upon launch of the launch of its redesign. The 2012 Audi A8 L will now be offered with a W12 engine under its hood and a $133,500 starting price on the window sticker. For that, you get a dozen cylinders giving 500 horsepower and 463 pound-feet of torque - enough to launch Audi's Big Daddy to 60 mph in a scant 4.4 seconds.

Any other items of note for the 2012 model year? Yes, we're glad you asked.

The sporty 2012 Audi TT-RS can be yours if you have $56,850 to spare. The redesigned 2012 A6 sedan starts at $41,700 for the front-wheel-drive 2.0T and $49,900 for the 3.0T with Quattro all-wheel-drive. Finally, the Audi R8 GT, if you haven't already heard, will run you $196,800. Still no word on when the Spyder derivative will arrive to add a $200,000 car to Audi's lineup.

*Prices do not include taxes or destination and handling.

Continue reading Big Daddy Audi A8 L W12 priced from $133,500*

Big Daddy Audi A8 L W12 priced from $133,500* originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 20 Jul 2011 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2012 Audi TT RS priced from $56,850*

Zach Bowman — Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:29:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Coupe, Performance, Audi, Luxury

2012 Audi TT RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has finally released U.S. pricing on the company's 2012 TT RS. Buyers looking to jump into the 360-horsepower coupe can plan on handing over $56,850 (*plus any applicable destination charges) for the pleasure of ownership. That pricing scoots the mean little Audi well under the Porsche Cayman S at $62,100, though the topless Boxster S narrows that gap somewhat with a price tag of $58,600. Of course, both of those lithe sports cars are down by about 50 ponies compared to the new Quattro terror, which helps give the edge from stop light to stop light. The German automaker says that the 2012 TT RS can scoot to 60 mph in a scant 4.1 seconds.

That's moving right along, especially considering that the BMW 1 Series M Coupe does the same sprint in 4.7 seconds. It's also about $1,600 cheaper, but who's counting? For comparison's sake, the 265-hp TTS starts at $47,000, itself already a big leap over the $38,300 base 211-hp TT.

With so many diminutive, excellent German racers about, the North American enthusiast's world is clearly a better place than it was just a few years ago. Hit the jump to check the full press blast and be sure to check out the high-res gallery.

Continue reading 2012 Audi TT RS priced from $56,850*

2012 Audi TT RS priced from $56,850* originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 16:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2011 Audi TT 2.0 Quattro Coupe

Michael Harley — Thu, 16 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Audi, New Car Reviews

Least Costly TT Gives Entry-Level A Very Positive Meaning

2011 Audi TT 2.0 Quattro Coupe - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi invited us out to a California track a little more than a year ago for some hot laps in its new TT RS. Fresh out of development, the enthusiast-tuned variant of its ever-stylish coupe was fitted with a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder sending 340 horsepower to every corner through Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Quick, nimble and offered only with a six-speed manual, the gussied-up two-seater was not only the ultimate expression of the chassis' capabilities, it was a gift to those with a passion for driving.

Last September, after a successful Facebook petition, Audi decided to bring the TT RS to the States. As word of the announcement spread, we're guessing that more than a few Porsche Boxster and Mercedes-Benz SLK owners felt chills go up their spines.

Fourteen months after blasting around Willow Springs Raceway in the talented TT RS, we found a TT 2.0T Quattro sitting in our driveway. For those unfamiliar with Audi's lineup, the 2.0T is relegated to the bottom of the pole as the least expensive and least powerful model in the franchise.

So... just how would we swallow the entry-level coupe with the taste of the wondrous TT RS still fresh in our mouths? As it happened, we were pleasantly surprised.

Continue reading 2011 Audi TT 2.0 Quattro Coupe

2011 Audi TT 2.0 Quattro Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 16 Jun 2011 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Video: Audi TT RS blasts from 0-60 in 3.6 seconds with Car and Driver

Chris Shunk — Tue, 12 Apr 2011 13:04:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Videos, Audi

2012 Audi TT RS tested by Car and Driver - Click above to watch the video after the jump

When Car and Driver tested the 2011 Audi R8 Spyder 5.2 V10 FSI, the magazine managed a 0-60 time of 3.7 seconds. That's supercar territory, which is to be expected of a $165,00 Audi with 525 horsepower and all-wheel-drive.

The 2012 Audi TT RS should hit dealer lots this summer, with a much more reasonable Monroney somewhere in the $60,000 territory. The hot coupe features "only" 335 horsepower from its turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine, so it shouldn't even come close to challenging the V10-packing R8 from 0-60, right? According to C/D, the TT RS can do more than just "challenge" the R8 Spyder, as the little hatch managed to hit 60 mph in a blistering 3.6 seconds (note: C/D conducts acceleration testing with a rollout). That's quicker than the R8 and a lot of very expensive Porsche 911 variants. Could this stupendous performance be an aberration?

Hit the jump to watch the action-packed video of the TT RS. It's only 50 seconds long, and it's worth your time if only for the amazing sounds coming from Audi's boosted five cylinder. Top tip, JimmyX!

[Source: Car and Driver via YouTube]

Continue reading Video: Audi TT RS blasts from 0-60 in 3.6 seconds with Car and Driver

Video: Audi TT RS blasts from 0-60 in 3.6 seconds with Car and Driver originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 12 Apr 2011 13:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Isle of Man considering TT World Series

Aaron Richardson — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 11:35:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Europe, Motorcycle

The Isle of Man TT Races could become an international series as soon as 2014, according to the British island's government. The Isle of Man's Department of Economic Development is considering expanding its most-recognized brand into a multi-national racing series.

The idea here is to expand the global profile of the island itself, and build a revenue stream for racers and the Isle of Man alike. Right now the idea is in its infancy, and it remains to be seen whether the the Isle of Man will go through with it.

Details like where additional races would be held are yet to be worked out. Expansion of the TT, which started in 1907, is certainly an exiting thought, so we'll keep our fingers crossed.

[Source: AllAboutBikes]

Isle of Man considering TT World Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Mar 2011 11:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: More powerful Audi TT RS Plus on the way

Jeff Glucker — Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:40:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Audi, Rumormill

Audi TT RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Is there a more powerful Audi TT RS on the horizon? According to some leaked information, that appears to be the case. An iteration of the two-door has appeared in internal Audi documents with the name TT RS Plus. It's power output is listed at 355 horsepower, which is a 20 pony jump over the current 335-hp TT RS.

It may not sound like much, but if Audi can shed some weight, in addition to the horsepower increase, then it should have an even more serious sports car on its hands. The leaked document states that the car will be introduced in May, so until that happens we'll dream that it looks something like the DTM-inspired TT RS we drooled over back in October 2010.

Gallery: Audi TT RS and Roadster

[Source: WorldCarFans]

Rumormill: More powerful Audi TT RS Plus on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 09 Mar 2011 13:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi TT GT4 Concept unwrapped in Shanghai

Zach Bowman — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:31:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Motorsports, Coupe, Europe, Audi, Racing

Audi TT GT4 Concept - Click above for high-res image gallery

Heads up, weekend racers: Audi has officially pulled back the sheets on its TT GT4 Concept. Designed to be the next logical step in the company's customer sports program, the racer will supposedly bring a relatively low price tag to the table when it arrives as a production model in 2012, but for the moment, it's been confined to some demo laps at Shanghai's DTM over the weekend with racer Frank Biela behind the wheel.

The racer comes complete with a 340-horsepower TFSI engine back by the company's S-Tronic DSG gearbox and a limited-slip differential. Buyers will also find a set of adjustable dampers on hand for improved tuning, as well as carbon fiber reinforced plastic skins on the doors, hood and trunk lid.

How much will you be asked to pay for the privilege of owning such a piece of machinery? Chances of this vehicle making it to the States seem pretty slim, but Audi says that European buyers can look to fork over around €120,000 (around $157k USD). That's probably a small bargain in the world of privateer ready-to-race cars, but it also goes some way toward reinforcing that people have a slightly different definitions of "affordable." Check out the official press release after the jump and our high-res gallery below.

Gallery: Audi TT GT4

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi TT GT4 Concept unwrapped in Shanghai

Audi TT GT4 Concept unwrapped in Shanghai originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 29 Nov 2010 13:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MTM launches its 472-horse Audi TT RS with a 194 mph run at Nardo

Noah Joseph — Tue, 05 Oct 2010 18:28:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Audi

MTM Audi TT RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

You'd be forgiven for believe the Audi TT RS is fast enough. By most accounts it is, packing a 340 horsepower, turbocharged inline five, it's good for a four-and-a-half-second sprint to sixty and a 174 mph top speed. But if you're going after the triple-century metric mark (close to 200 mph), you're going to need a little something extra.

So says MTM. And they ought to know. The German tuning house has a history of taking Audis to the V-max and beyond, having brought an RS6 Avant to 344.2 km/h in 2009, a radical twin-engine TT to 393.6 in 2007 and a Bentley to 331 in 2008.

In an effort to take the TT RS past the 300 mark without the need for breaching the 500 hp mark, MTM tweaked the ECU, modified the turbo spools and fitted a new exhaust system - along with new wheels, tires and brakes. The result of the engine mods was 472 hp, enough to get its customized TT RS up to a GPS-certified top speed of 312 km/h (just under 194 mph) at Italy's Nardo test track. And they'll sell you the modifications too, for a price: €14,500 for the engine mods and another €9,973 for the suspension and wheel work, taxes and installation included.

Having proven their point about power:speed ratios, MTM's also working on a 500+hp version. We can hardly wait to see what they'll manage with that one, but for now you can check out the images in the gallery below and the details in the press release after the jump.

Gallery: MTM Audi TT RS 20th Anniversary

[Source: MTM]

Continue reading MTM launches its 472-horse Audi TT RS with a 194 mph run at Nardo

MTM launches its 472-horse Audi TT RS with a 194 mph run at Nardo originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 05 Oct 2010 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi TT RS headed to America after Facebook petition success

Chris Paukert — Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:39:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Audi

Audi TT RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Audi has just announced that it will begin importing the hottest version of its little sports car, the TT-RS, in the third quarter of next year.

The product move comes after Audi whipped up a Facebook petition page that gathered in excess of 11,500 signatures in just a month's time.

The move to import the 360-horsepower Porsche Boxster and Mercedes-Benz SLK AMG-fighter isn't much of a surprise - after all, Audi has been courting the media with test drives for months, and an Audi executive at last week's launch of the A7 Sportback in Sardinia hinted that a decision was to be revealed in a few days.

No word yet on what pricing or the options list will look like, but only the hard-hatted coupe will make it to these shores - the Roadster will remain forbidden fruit.

Gallery: Quick Spin: 2010 Audi TT RS

Photos by Drew Phillips / Copyright (C)2010 AOL

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi TT RS headed to America after Facebook petition success

Audi TT RS headed to America after Facebook petition success originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Graham creates a trophy watch for the Tourist Trophy

Noah Joseph — Thu, 10 Jun 2010 07:59:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Etc., Motorcycle

The Isle of Man is a veritable gearhead's paradise. It's located in the Irish Sea right between England and Ireland, but is its own independent island. Like Monaco (and a few other examples around the world), the Isle of Man has no speed limits. Which could explain, in part at least, why Jeremy Clarkson and Nigel Mansell chose to live there.

The Isle also plays host to the famous Tourist Trophy - commonly known as the TT - an all-out romp through the Manx countryside, covering 1,300 ft of elevation at ludicrous speeds: The first time it was run, in 1907, the race winner's average speed came in around 38 miles per hour. Today? 132 mph, hitting a top speed in excess of 200 mph.

For such a test of testicular fortitude, you're not going to hand out just any chintzy trophy, now are you? Of course not. That's why Anglo-Swiss watchmaker Graham-London - sponsor of the event for the past two years running - was charged to make a special run of timepieces to be awarded to the winners in each of the 18 categories.

The Chronofighter Oversize Tourist Trophy Bi-Compax Chronograph packs a Calibre G1734 automatic movement with built-in shock absorption into a giant 47-mm PVD-coated stainless steel case. The galvanized black face features a 30-minute stopwatch counter styled after a 30-mph speed limit road sign, with the second dial bearing the Triskelion, the Manx coat of arms. It also features a domed, double-anti-reflective sapphire crystal, date indicator, and non-slip guard over the fast-action actuator. Only 211 examples will be made, but none will be as coveted as those 18 handed to the race winners.

[Source: Graham-London]

Graham creates a trophy watch for the Tourist Trophy originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 10 Jun 2010 07:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: The torque-tastic 2011 Audi TT

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 14 May 2010 11:56:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Audi, First Drives, Luxury

2011 Audi TT - Click above for high-res image gallery

This is the 2011 Audi TT. It looks the same, it steers the same and it sticks the same. But there's one major difference: torque. Audi has managed to coax an additional 51 pound-feet of twist from its ever-evolving 2.0-liter TFSI four cylinder. The result? The standard TT isn't just the Bauhaus design icon that propelled Audi into the luxury limelight at the end of the last decade - it's finally a proper sports car. And it's about damned time. Follow the jump to see what we're torquing about.

Gallery: First Drive: 2011 Audi TT

Continue reading First Drive: The torque-tastic 2011 Audi TT

First Drive: The torque-tastic 2011 Audi TT originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 14 May 2010 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Quick Spin: 2010 Audi TT RS performs, assuming Audi AG decides to deliver

Michael Harley — Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Audi, Quick Spins, Racing

2010 Audi TT RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

There is only one Audi TT RS in the entire United States right now. And here we are, hurling the black coupe down the front straight at Willow Springs Raceway at 132 mph. We've been invited out to the sunny California desert on a pristine day to flog the hottest-ever Audi TT back-to-back against its TTS sibling, along with a few stints in the all-new S4 and R8 V10 for good measure.

The TT RS isn't simply another upgraded model in the automaker's diversified lineup. The TTS (and the other standard performance models) come from the Audi AG Sport division, while the TT RS was incubated and hatched by Quattro GmbH - the team who brought us the nefarious R8, RS4 and RS6. And while we've seen the TT on our shores with four- and six-cylinder powerplants, the new five-cylinder engine marks a significant departure for the front-engine coupe and convertible (even as it pays homage to the original 1980s-era Audi Sport Quattro).

So what makes the TT RS special and how does it fit into the current TT lineup? More importantly, how does the enthusiast-tuned package work under demanding track conditions? We intend to find out while answering a very important question for Audi: Should it bring the TT RS to the States?

Gallery: Quick Spin: 2010 Audi TT RS

Continue reading Quick Spin: 2010 Audi TT RS performs, assuming Audi AG decides to deliver

Quick Spin: 2010 Audi TT RS performs, assuming Audi AG decides to deliver originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 15 Apr 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MTM Audi TT RS packs up to 424 horsepower, 185 mph top speed

Drew Phillips — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Audi

MTM Audi TT RS - Click above for a high-res image gallery

German tuner MTM has a long history with Audi's inline-five. In fact, company founder Roland Mayer helped develop the turbocharged five-banger for the Sport Quattro back in the mid-80s, and MTM produced a 400 horsepower version of the motor as one of their earliest performance packages. Nearly 20 years later the technology and the cars have changed, but MTM is still doing its thing.

Its latest project is Audi's TT RS, which boasts 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft torque in stock trim. MTM is offering three stages of engine packages ranging from 404 to 424 horsepower courtesy of tweaks to the engine control unit and and an upgraded exhaust system. Naturally, the Stage Three kit provides a substantial boost performance, including a top speed of 185 mph and a 0-100 km/h time of just 4.2 seconds. A variety of other upgrades are available as well, including MTM's 19-inch Bimoto wheels, 15-inch brakes with eight-piston calipers, and lowering springs. Follow the jump for the official press release and check out the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: MTM Audi TT RS

[Source: MTM]

Continue reading MTM Audi TT RS packs up to 424 horsepower, 185 mph top speed

MTM Audi TT RS packs up to 424 horsepower, 185 mph top speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis.

Alex Nunez — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Etc., Videos, Audi, Humor

A leopard chills in his Audi TT - Click above to watch the video

You've pretty much achieved Tony Montana status when you can keep a big cat as a pet. But how do you transport Fluffy around when it's time to venture beyond that "The World Is Yours" statue at the homestead? Apparently, the preferred method of this particular leopard-owning baller is to simply load the kitty into the passenger seat of an Audi TT, roll down the window, and head out on the town. (Perhaps a Mercury Cougar would be more appropriate? Maybe a Jaguar?)

Leopards apparently like this as much as a yellow lab enjoys squinting into the wind from the bed of a pickup truck. Seriously. Follow the jump to see for yourselves. Thanks for the link, Charlie!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis.

VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Stanford to run driverless Audi TT-S up Pikes Peak next year [w/VIDEO]

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Videos, Audi

Stanford's autonomously drifting Audi TTS -- Click above to view video after the jump

If you read AutoblogGreen regularly, then you already know that Volkswagen and Stanford University have taken their relationship that began with developing autonomous vehicles to compete in the government-sponsored DARPA Grand Challenge competitions to the next level. VW has committed over $5 million to open the Volkswagen Automotive Innovation Lab on Stanford's campus with the intent of taking their research further regardless of whether the government is offering a carrot or not.

The two organizations are kicking off their new commitment to autonomous vehicles in a big way. Already under development is a the third-gen autonomous vehicle will make past DARPA Grand Challenge winners Stanley and Junior look obsolete by comparison. Based on an Audi TT-S, the new vehicle eschews all the outwardly visible hardware and has one expressed purpose: to tackle the Pikes Peak Hill Climb just like a real rally driver, four wheel drifts and all.

While still in the early stages, the team of researchers from Stanford have already performed tests with the autonomous TT-S at the Bonneville Salt Flats where the car was free to roam while being driving at the limit without a driver. They've also reportedly visited Pikes Peak with the car and ran it up the hill, albeit slowly.

Follow the jump to check out video of Stanford's autonomous TT-S being tested, including a nifty little trick where it traces Audi's corporate logo in the salt. It's just a teaser for now, but we gotta admit the idea of watching an empty TT-S tackle Pikes Peak is tantamount to finally getting that flying car we were promised. Thanks for the tip, Marcial

Gallery: Stanford driverless Audi TT-S Pikes Peak Hill Climb car

[Source: YouTube | Photos by jurvetson | CC2.0]

Continue reading Stanford to run driverless Audi TT-S up Pikes Peak next year [w/VIDEO]

Stanford to run driverless Audi TT-S up Pikes Peak next year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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