Audi TTRS 8S Tuning Guide

The Audi TTRS 8S, powered by the 2.5-litre five-cylinder DAZA engine, offers an impressive platform for tuning and performance upgrades. With its Quattro all-wheel drive system and potent engine, it’s a car that can be transformed into a true powerhouse. Whether you’re looking to enhance your TTRS for daily driving or track performance, understanding the stages of tuning and the required hardware is crucial to ensure reliable performance.

Given the similarities between the TTRS 8S and the facelifted Audi RS3 8V in terms of engine and drivetrain, many tuning solutions are interchangeable. Below, we break down the typical tuning stages for the TTRS 8S, highlighting the key modifications required for each stage.

Are you looking for performance parts? Check out our TTRS 8S dedicated page here!

Stage 1 Tuning: ECU Tune and Basic Upgrades

Stage 1 tuning is the most basic level of modification and is suitable for those looking to increase performance without making major changes to the engine hardware. It focuses primarily on remapping the ECU (Engine Control Unit) and can involve a few other small upgrades.

ECU Tune
The first step in Stage 1 is an ECU remap, which optimises the car’s existing settings to increase performance. The stock TTRS 8S produces around 400 PS and 480 Nm of torque. After an ECU tune, you can expect a performance boost of around 30-50 PS, with torque increases across the rev range. This is achieved by adjusting boost pressure, fuel mapping, and timing. An ECU remap is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to unlock more power from the engine.

Optional Air Filter or Induction Kit
While not strictly necessary, upgrading the air filter or adding an induction kit can help improve airflow to the engine, particularly when paired with the ECU remap. High-performance air filters (like K&N or Milltek) are often used to replace the stock filter, while induction kits improve intake efficiency. These upgrades help the engine breathe more easily, providing small gains in performance and throttle response.

Check out our TTRS 8S intake options here

Optional Exhaust System
An aftermarket exhaust system is optional at Stage 1, but it can provide additional performance benefits, especially when it comes to sound and weight reduction. A performance exhaust system helps reduce backpressure, allowing the engine to expel gases more efficiently. This can result in a slight increase in horsepower and a more aggressive exhaust note.

Check out the full range of exhaust options for your TTRS here

Stage 2 Tuning: Full Intake, Intercooler, and Downpipe

Stage 2 tuning involves a more comprehensive set of upgrades that push the TTRS 8S to a higher level of performance. At this stage, you’ll be increasing airflow and improving cooling to support the increased power output.

ECU Tune
At Stage 2, the ECU tune is revised to take into account the new hardware upgrades. Expect a more aggressive remap to optimise boost, fuel delivery, and timing for the upgraded components. After a Stage 2 remap, power figures can reach around 500-550 PS, with significant gains in torque.

Full Intake Kit
Upgrading to a full intake kit is one of the most important upgrades for Stage 2 tuning. A high-flow intake system, such as a larger intake manifold or a full intake pipe system, improves airflow to the engine. This allows the engine to breathe more easily at higher RPMs and supports the increased boost levels achieved in Stage 2. Popular options include brands like Forge Motorsport or APR for high-flow intake systems.

Check out our TTRS 8S intake options here

Intercooler
A larger and more efficient intercooler is essential at Stage 2, as increased boost pressure generates more heat. A bigger intercooler will lower intake temperatures, reducing the risk of detonation and helping to maintain performance throughout longer drives or track sessions. Upgrading the intercooler will ensure that the engine can handle the increased power levels without overheating.

Shop 8S TTRS cooling hardware here

Downpipe
A performance downpipe is a crucial upgrade for Stage 2 tuning. A larger diameter downpipe reduces exhaust gas restrictions and allows the turbocharger to spool faster. This upgrade significantly improves power delivery and turbo efficiency. Downpipes are often paired with a high-flow catalytic converter or, for track-focused cars, a decat downpipe can be used (though this may not be road legal in all areas).

You can find a full list of TTRS downpipes here!

Optional Exhaust System
While the exhaust upgrade remains optional, it’s often a good time to install a full performance exhaust system at Stage 2. A larger downpipe and performance exhaust system can free up additional horsepower, improve throttle response, and offer a more distinctive sound. This is a particularly popular upgrade for owners looking for the full performance experience.

Stage 3 Tuning: Hybrid Turbo or Full-Frame Turbo, Engine Reinforcement

Stage 3 tuning is the most extreme level of modification and is intended for those seeking to extract the maximum potential from their TTRS 8S. At this stage, you’ll be making significant changes to the engine and drivetrain to support much higher power outputs, often in the region of 600-700 PS or more.

Hybrid or Full-Frame Turbo
The most significant upgrade at Stage 3 is the turbocharger. The stock turbocharger is replaced with a hybrid or full-frame turbo that can handle much higher boost levels and airflow. A hybrid turbo is a modified version of the stock turbo, while a full-frame turbo is a completely new, larger turbocharger designed to support the extreme power demands of Stage 3 tuning. This upgrade can significantly increase both power and torque.

Possible Engine Reinforcement
With the increased power from a larger turbo, there is a risk of overstressing the engine’s internals, particularly the pistons, rods, and crankshaft. To support this level of power, you may need to reinforce the engine with stronger components. Forged pistons, rods, and upgraded bearings are common choices for Stage 3 builds, as they are better equipped to handle the increased stresses and prevent catastrophic engine failure.

Shop DAZA engine build products here!

Possible Extra Fuelling
To support the higher power levels, additional fuelling modifications may be necessary. This could include larger fuel injectors, an upgraded fuel pump, or a return fuel system. These upgrades ensure that the engine receives enough fuel to support the higher air intake from the upgraded turbocharger, avoiding lean conditions that could damage the engine.

Supporting Mods
Additional upgrades that may be required at Stage 3 include a high-performance clutch to handle the increased torque, stronger driveshafts, and potentially a larger intercooler to maintain cooling efficiency. Stage 3 tuning puts a considerable strain on the car’s drivetrain, so reinforcing other components may be necessary to prevent failures.

Conclusion

The Audi TTRS 8S offers plenty of tuning potential, with multiple stages available to suit different performance goals. Stage 1 is ideal for a simple increase in power and throttle response, while Stage 2 offers a more comprehensive upgrade for those looking for a more significant performance boost. Stage 3, while more expensive and involved, delivers the ultimate in power and capability, but it requires a careful approach to ensure the engine and drivetrain can handle the additional stresses.

Given the shared components between the TTRS 8S and the facelifted RS3 8V, many tuning parts are compatible between the two models, allowing for a wide range of performance options. Whether you want a small boost or an extreme build, tuning the TTRS 8S can result in an exciting and highly capable machine.