The new Audi TT RS Coupe and Roadster models go on sale here in July featuring a new high-tech five-cylinder engine that can deliver 340 bhp and return up to 30 mpg.

The new models come in at €83,000 for the Coupe and €88,500 for the Roadster and at this price, as one would expect, performance is the name of the game.

The new engine puts out 340 bhp between 5400-6700 rpm and develops 450 Nm of torque from 1600-5300 rpm. The sprint from 0-100 km/h takes just 4.6 seconds in the Coupe and is marginally higher in the Roadster. The top speed is electronically controlled to 250 km/h.

The new model gets a boost button to enhance throttle response and it gives a deeper exhaust growl which will please the enthusiasts. Also new is the six-speed manual transmission and Audi has developed the quattro drive system so that all torque can be sent rearwards.

To accommodate the higher performance the sports chassis has been lowered by 10mm and the latest TSFI technology reduces the C02 to 214g/km which brings the annual road tax to €1,050.

The new model gets extra big brakes and Electronic Stabilisation Programme has a sports mode which prevents the system from retarding engine output.

Visually the RS has large air intakes up front and at the rear a downforce-maximising fixed-rear spoiler and enlarged oval tailpipes. Customers wanting to keep the lowest possible profile can opt to replace the fixed rear spoiler with a more discreet version which raises and retracts automatically.

Inside the finish is in black with lots of brushed aluminium inlays, heated leather sports seats and a flat-bottomed multifunction steering wheel. A Driver's Information System has additional displays for boost pressure and oil temperature, and also includes a lap timer for circuit use.

» BMW has been named Best Car Manufacturer in the prestigious Which? Awards 2009. Chief Executive of Which?, Peter Vicary-Smith, said that BMW drivers seem to love their cars with 87 per cent in the survey describing themselves as very satisfied with the ownership experience.

The BMW Group is the most sustainable car company in the world – the company currently offers some of the most efficient cars in the premium segment. The BMW 118d was named World Green Car of the Year in 2008.