A legend is reborn. Audi TT gets a major adrenaline boost — behold Audi TT RS.

The extreme model will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show next month and sees the return of a five-cylinder engine to the Audi lineup.

Its turbocharged direct-fuel-injection 2.5-litre mill produces over 220kW and is billed as the new torchbearer of the German company's long legacy of five-cylinder petrol engines.

The lump enables the Audi TT RS to go from standstill to 100km/h in under five seconds and on to an electronically-limited top speed of 250km/h.

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive system, a sophisticated chassis, and powerful brakes keep a tight rein on the power.

When combined with the car's lightweight and largely aluminium body constructed as per the Audi Space Frame principle, the compact Audi TT RS becomes a serious driving machine.