2019 Audi TT RS Review: Performance, Price & Five-Cylinder Truth
The Five-Cylinder Obsession
Imagine counting numbers in the sequence 1-2-4-5-3 for life. That’s the reality for Audi TT RS owners – a quirk mirroring its engine’s firing order. After analyzing Throttle House’s exhaustive test, we uncover whether this $83,000 CAD ($77,000 USD) sports car justifies its premium with a turbocharged 2.5-liter five-cylinder – the last of its kind. For driving enthusiasts weighing options like the Porsche Cayman or BMW M2, this review delivers critical insights you won’t find in spec sheets.
Why This Engine Matters
The 394-horsepower powerplant isn’t just about nostalgia. Audi’s revised turbocharger delivers 354 lb-ft of torque, enabling a brutal 3.7-second 0-100 km/h sprint. Crucially, the 1-2-4-5-3 firing sequence creates an unmistakable warble absent in modern six-cylinders. Unlike synthetic exhaust notes in competitors, the TT RS pipes unfiltered sound into the cabin. Industry data confirms its rarity: this remains the sole production five-cylinder in 2023. For tuners, that’s significant – modified examples dominate drag strips with 8-second quarter-miles.
Driving Dynamics: Strengths and Compromises
Straight-Line Dominance
Launch control harnesses the Haldex AWD system brilliantly, eliminating wheelspin. However, Throttle House testing reveals a key limitation: only 50% of torque reaches the rear wheels unless fronts completely lose traction. This isn’t Audi’s legendary torsen Quattro – it’s front-biased. Power delivery feels linear, aided by the razor-sharp 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Downshifts are instantaneous, while the virtual cockpit displays real-time torque/boost data – a genuine advantage over analog rivals.
Cornering Realities
Push hard on twisty roads, and physics intrude. The engine’s forward placement induces understeer during aggressive corner entry. Toronto backroad testing showed the chassis, though stiff, lacks Cayman-level feedback. The steering’s tight ratio aids responsiveness, but you’ll need patience: get the car settled before applying throttle. For daily usability, the magnetic ride suspension (standard) handles urban potholes better than track-focused rivals.
Design, Interior & Value Analysis
2019 Exterior Updates
Audi’s mid-cycle refresh added wider intakes, black optics trim ($1,200), and 20-inch Anthracite wheels ($900). While the Tango Red paint pops, fake rear vents undermine the aggressive stance – a baffling cost-cutting move. The classic fuel filler cap and massive quad exhausts retain charm, but those eight-piston monoblock brakes (optional red calipers: $400) are the true stars.
Minimalist Cabin Trade-Offs
The Model 3-esque dashboard eliminates central screens, relaying everything to the 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit. Carbon fiber inlay trim ($900) elevates the otherwise dark cabin. Key notes from extended testing:
- Bang & Olufsen audio is competent but falls short of Audi’s premium systems
- Fixed-back RS seats offer superb bolstering yet limit rear-seat usability
- Steering wheel ergonomics rival supercars – a benchmark for tactile feel
The $83,000 Question
At this price, alternatives demand consideration:
| Competitor | Key Advantage | TT RS Edge |
|---|---|---|
| Porsche Cayman S | Balanced handling | Straight-line speed, AWD |
| BMW M2 Competition | Rear-drive thrills | Unique engine, daily comfort |
| Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 | 650 HP, track prowess | Size, urban maneuverability |
The RS3 sedan shares the engine at lower cost but sacrifices the TT’s razor-sharp dynamics.
Buyer’s Checklist & Final Verdict
Critical Pre-Purchase Steps
- Test Haldex responsiveness on wet roads to feel torque split limitations
- Verify rear seat usability if carrying passengers occasionally
- Prioritize magnetic ride if daily-driving over rough surfaces
- Skip Anthracite wheels – invest in performance tires instead
- Cross-shop CPO models – early depreciation improves value
The Unfiltered Conclusion
The 2019 TT RS delivers a singular experience: that five-cylinder symphony paired with devastating acceleration. Yet the Haldex system and understeer tendencies remind us it’s not a purist’s tool. If engine character tops your priorities, it’s compelling. For handling brilliance, the Cayman still reigns. Ultimately, this Audi excels as a daily-able unicorn – but test drive rivals before committing.
"Which factor matters more to you: unique engine character or neutral handling? Share your deal-breakers below!"
