Following the release of teaser images in February, Audi officially uncovered its 2010 TT RS range at the Geneva Motor Show Tuesday morning. The TT RS is an even more performance-oriented variant than the recently unveiled TTS. It will be sold in Coupe and Roadster variants, both of which have virtually identical specs under the hood.

The TT RS will use a turbocharged 2.5-liter in-line five-cylinder motor, Audi’s first five-cylinder engine in ten years. Despite its modest displacement, the five-cylinder mill will crank out 340 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque, which should translate into a sub-5 second run to 60 mph.

All this grunt will be channeled through Audi’s permanent all-wheel-drive quattro system and a six-speed manual gearbox, though the DSG dual-clutch system will also be available as an option. Expect sporty styling with unique large-diameter wheels, alloy-effect door mirrors, aggressive bumpers, RS badges on the brakes and sill extensions. Volkswagen’s new 280bhp 3.6-litre V6 petrol engine, lined up for a hot version of the Passat CC, is expected to be released at the same time to replace the 3.2-litre V6 currently powering the range-topping standard TT.

Although the TT RS will be the highest-performing TT ever, expect the German two-door — which will be available as a coupe and roadster — to return 24 mpg.

Although the exterior of the RS appears similar to the S model, there are a few subtle changes. The TT-RS forgoes the S’ fog lights in order to accommodate larger air intakes, allowing for better airflow to the engine. In addition, the RS also sports bigger wheels and brakes. Out back are a set of oval exhaust outlets, a signature design cue for Audi’s performance range of vehicles.

The TT RS is expected to hit the European market in the second half of 2009, although Audi has not confirmed U.S. availability for the car. However, we fully expect the TT RS to eventually be available in U.S. dealerships, possibly in time for spring 2010.

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