Just when we thought the end was nigh for the current generation of the TT, Audi releases the hottest version yet. The TT RS plus boasts a unique look and a step up in performance, just in time for the arrival of Porsche's new Boxster and Cayman.

At the heart of the TT RS plus is a modified version of the charismatic turbocharged five-cylinder TFSI engine. Changes to the inlet manifold, and an increase in turbo boost, result in increases of 20hp and 15Nm, bringing peak power up to 360hp and torque to 465Nm. As you'd hope, the quattro four-wheel drive system is retained, though buyers can choose between six-speed manual and seven-speed S tronic (dual-clutch) gearboxes. The fastest accelerating - and most economical - option is the automatic transmission. Thanks to launch control it hits 62mph from standstill in just 4.1 seconds, though the manual is only 0.2 seconds slower. Top speed is capped at 174mph in all versions, up from 155mph in the standard TT RS.

Audi will offer the TT RS plus in both Coupé and Roadster guises. The latter is a little slower and less economical, but it does have the rather large advantage of allowing unhindered access to the exhaust note. To that end the TT RS plus features a new 'sound flap', which opens under hard acceleration to reduce muffling of the engine's sound.

Noise aside, the TT RS plus can be differentiated from the car it's based on by carbon fibre door mirror casings, a restyled grille and rear spoiler and a set of extrovertly designed 19-inch cast alloy wheels finished in black with contrasting red rims. There's also a carbon design package for the engine bay and plus badging inside.

We expect to see the TT RS plus at next month's Geneva Motor Show alongside the all-new Audi A3 - and perhaps even an RS4 Avant. Word is that the TT RS plus will be made in right-hand drive, though we have no UK market details at this stage.

Shane O' Donoghue - 10 Feb 2012