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The Audi pocket rocket is now easier to launch - it takes 4.3 seconds to reach 100kmh The modern dual-clutch transmission has become a fixture in the sports car world. The latest Ferrari supercars use it, and so do the mighty BMW M3, the high-tech Nissan GT-R and the popular Volkswagen Golf GTI. Even the world's fastest car today, Bugatti's Veyron Super Sport, employs a dual-clutch transaxle. Porsche, too, has switched to the technology, calling its device PDK. Interestingly, the German automaker persists in offering manual models, even in Singapore where most drivers prefer two pedals in the footwell and a well-rested left foot. Porsche remains particular about the purity of the driving experience, which is why the hardcore GT2 and GT3 versions of its signature 911 range are available only with a classic six-speed manual. Audi displayed the same hardcore attitude a year ago when it introduced the RS variant of its TT two-door to the local market. The premium pocket rocket is powered by a bespoke 2.5-litre turbo five-cylinder, whose punchy 340bhp and 450Nm are originally put through a quattro four-wheel-drive system via a six-speed manual gearbox. Even though the clutch pedal action is easy enough and the gear shifts are straightforward, accessing the high performance still requires some manual labour from the driver. Life in the Audi fast lane can be more relaxed now with the arrival of the S tronic-equipped TT RS. The seven-speed autobox adds 25kg to the kerb weight, but the ample engine output and the smooth, speedy power transfer of the dual-clutch setup translate into even faster acceleration off the line - 4.3 seconds to reach 100kmh versus 4.6 seconds in the manual RS. The latter figure is also dependent on having the correct take-off technique, which is a lot harder to master than the launch control feature of the automatic model. Simply disable ESP, put the gear lever into S, step on the brake pedal and simultaneously squeeze the throttle completely. The car will hold the engine revs at a steady 3,200rpm, you lift your left foot from the pedal and then the RS rushes towards the horizon like a Bavarian bat out of hell. Adding to the drama is a whiff of wheelspin before the quattro plants all the power down onto the tarmac. You would need a V10 R8 flagship to stay ahead of this TT RS in full flight. It also sings happily when hard at work, the force-fed five-cylinder producing an unusual and hugely enjoyable note that makes the regular four-cylinder TT sound strangely boring. Press the Sport button, the in-dash display shows 'Sport mode on!' and the exhaust roars even more loudly, while the engine responds more aggressively to accelerator input. Activating Sport also stiffens the suspension, making the ride rock-hard rather than just hard. It is borderline uncomfortable, especially on the optional upsized 255/35 R19 tyres of the test car. The payoffs are even tighter handling and surer steering, but the default damping is already so effective that you will not need this extreme chassis mode unless you hit Sepang. Speaking of the Malaysian F1 circuit, the fitment of S tronic has made it possible to specify standard cruise control for the TT RS. High speeds in the Teutonic rocket are truly user-friendly now. Article Credit : http://www.stcars.sg
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