B&B Audi TT Edition R

IEGEN, Germany — B&B has upped the ante in the TT tuning sweepstakes with a new 500-horsepower edition of Audi's sporty coupe.

The exterior shape and design details of the TT Edition R represent a collaborative effort with Belgian design house Caractere. But the hot hardware under the skin is pure B&B.

Working with the 3.2-liter V6, the Germans installed an intercooled turbocharger as well as a slim-line oil cooler and revamped air intake system and engine management electronics. A performance exhaust system with racing catalysts also has been fitted.

The results are spectacular: Output is bumped to 500 hp and torque to 479 pound-feet. The TT Edition R now accelerates from zero to 60 mph in less than 4.2 seconds, reaching a top speed of 199 mph.

B&B also has installed an adjustable suspension kit and performance brakes and offers a variety of wheels in 19- and 20-inch sizes.

The Caractere body kit transforms the TT into something of a scaled-down R8 look-alike. There are new front and rear bumper, grille, side vents and deck spoiler, all of which lend a more aggressive look to the TT.

Prices in Europe start at around $120,000.

What this means to you: We're guessing the same money will buy you an actual R8 when it finally arrives here as a 2008 model.



Audi TT gets a B&B power surge, with power upped to 500 hp and a top speed of 199 mph. (Photo courtesy of Caractere)



In addition to the B&B tuning work, Caractere of Belgium heats up the Audi TT's appearance with aggressive-looking R8-style body pieces. (Photo courtesy of Caractere)



B&B Caractere Audi TT gets a variety of wheel choices in 19- and 20-inch sizes to go with the performance exhaust system, adjustable suspension kit and performance brakes. (Photo courtesy of Caractere)