Speed isn't always king

A car with new seven-speed dual-clutch semi-automatic instead of the six-speed manual that was first offered a year ago. It still uses the same awesome-sounding, turbocharged 2.5-litre in-line five-cylinder engine though.

So is it any better now?

Very much. The manual version had an uncomfortably stiff ride that became rather unbearable with sport mode active. In this automatic variant, the suspension has been improved and is easier to live with, though still firm. Slightly masochistic drivers can still get rock-hard settings by hitting the "sport" button, which makes the car's dampers harder.

The car is also 0.3 seconds quicker to 100kmh than before, taking just 4.3 seconds. That makes it as quick as the 4.2-litre V8-powered R8 coupe - it's got near-supercar levels of performance in other words. It grips hard when it's shown some corners, thanks to Audi's quattro four-wheel drive system, but the distinct lack of steering feedback doesn't instil the confidence required to push the car harder. Still, being able to show a clean pair of heels to nearly anything else on the road, coupled with the aggressive design counts for a lot.

Is it well worth the money then?

If you're an Audi die-hard, the S$326,873 (with COE) TT RS is a special toy. But for around the same money, a two-seater Porsche Cayman S is more pleasurable to drive. The Audi has four seats, but like many other dedicated sports cars, the two at back are only good for pets or children. It packs impressive hardware, as is the Audi way, and is a pocket performance monster, but this sheer pace could do with more accessibility and comfort. Andy Hum

Engine: 2,480cc, 340bhp

Performance: 250kmh, 0-100kmh 4.3 seconds

Price: S$326,873 with COE