Audi launches ‘Performance Parts’ for R8 and TT

Are you the sort of person that turns their nose up at ‘garden-variety’ supercars? Walk right this way…

Audi has revealed a new range of performance parts for its R8 and TT sports cars. The packages cover suspension, exhaust, aerodynamic and interior components and are said to “take dynamic handling to a wholly new level”.

Audi Australia is currently evaluating both packages for the local market and is set to make a decision in the coming months.

“With the Audi Sport Performance Parts we are tapping into a new business segment,” said Audi Sport managing director Stephan Winkelmann.

“Our wealth of experience garnered over many years of building sports cars is incorporated into every component we offer. Along with our expertise from motor racing, which is still the best test bed for volume production.”

Retrofittable to current R8 and TT models, the enhancements begin with sport brake linings for more reliable braking, two- or three-way coilover suspension, lightweight 20-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin “sport tyres”.

For the TT coupés with quattro drive, the retrofit range includes a cross-member reinforcement bar on the rear axle which purportedlyu improves rigidity. Audi TT RS owners are also given the option of increasing their car’s top speed to 280km/h.

TTS and TT RS owners wanting a more sonorous exhaust note will no doubt be interested in the new Akrapovic titanium exhaust system.

According to Audi, the most spectacular offerings come in the form of aero enhancements.

“For the Audi R8 and the Audi TT they add clear-cut highlights on the front air inlets, the side sills and the diffuser,” the car maker says. “They also substantially improve downforce: on the Audi R8 the downforce is 250kg at 330 km/h, an increase of over 100 kg. The effect at 150km/h is even more pronounced – the downforce is doubled at this speed to 52kg  thanks to the Aero kit.

“There is also a splitter and flics at the front as well as a large fixed rear wing. An engine hood with large air vent is also available for the Audi TT.”

All parts are made from carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP) in the case of the R8, while the TT features a mix of CFRP and plastic. The Audi Sport logo is emblazoned on all parts.

Inside, available enhancements include an alcantara sports steering wheel with, CFRP shift paddles, and a sleek strut cross brace available specifically for the TT that replaces the rear seats and increases the car’s torsional rigidity.

The enhancements will go on sale in the northern hemisphere within months. Audi Sport is yet to reveal pricing.