Audi has been testing prototypes of its new TT RS in preparation of its international launch scheduled for next year. The TT RS is expected to be substantially more powerful than the TT S with the car set to carry on using a five-cylinder turbocharged engine instead of the new TT S’ 2.0-litre four-cylinder 306bhp unit.

The five-cylinder turbocharged unit is expected to either be lifted from the RS3 Sportback where the 2.5-litre unit develops 362bhp in its naturally aspirated form, or the manufacturer could make the TT RS its first model to use the new generation of five-cylinder aluminium block engines. The naturally aspirated aluminium block motor, originally used on the American VW Jetta, is expected to develop as much as 400bhp, and could allow Audi to make the TT RS lighter than the TT S.

Regardless of the engine, power will be sent to all four wheels via a choice of six-speed manual or dual-clutch automatic gearboxes.

In terms of styling, the test mule sports new bumpers and twin oval exhausts in place of the standard’s circular units. The production model of the TT RS is expected to get a larger rear spoiler to further set it apart from the other cars in the TT line-up.