Audi TTS Coupe and Roadster

It's ten years since Audi launched the iconic Audi TT into the world - and it celebrated that fact by launching the fastest-ever version of the car while soft-rocker Bryan Adams crooned in the background.

Engine and gearbox
Powered by an overhauled version of the company's 2.0-litre TFSI engine, the TTS Coupe is capable of a 0-62mph time of 5.2sec and a limited top speed of 155mph. It has an average fuel consumption of 29.3mpg.

The roadster version of the car is only marginally slower, recording a 0-62mph time of 5.6sec, with the same limited top speed of 155mph limit. Average fuel consumption is 28.7mpg.

Performance can be enhanced further, however, if the buyer operates for the S-tronic dual-clutch semi-automatic gearshift system.

The gearbox has six forward gears and two clutches. It can change between gears in two-tenths of a second, shaving two-tenths of a second off the 0-62mph time.

Enhancements
The advanced suspension has two settings: standard and sport. When the sport mode is selected, the car's body lowers by 10mm to improve balance and handling.

The car's agility is further advanced by the use of lightweight aluminium and steel in its construction.

Emphasising the TTS' position as the flagship model in the range are 18-inch aluminium wheels, bi-xenon headlights and sports seats.

Pricing
Only European prices have been officially released, but the TTS is expected to go on sale in the UK in the second half of this year for around 35,000.

The future
No sooner had the wraps come off the striking 268bhp TTS, than everyone was asking about the much-vaunted Audi TT RS.

Audi officials remained tight-lipped, trying to keep attention on the TTS they had just rolled out, but there's no doubt the prospect of a future 340bhp 3.2-litre V6-engined version has also captured the imagination.

Insiders suggest the Audi TT variant won't be on sale until 2009 or 2010, though, and it will carry a price tag of around 45,000.