Motoring Editor STEVE NELSON takes a peek at two explosive new cars destined for launch this year.

Here’s a couple of new offerings to get petrolheads drooling.

First out of the blocks is the Bentley Continental Supersports, the fastest and most powerful Bentley ever.

This muscular two-seater is also the first Bentley capable of running on both petrol and biofuel, pioneering the use of FlexFuel technology in the luxury sector.

The company is committed to making its complete model range compatible with renewable fuels by 2012.

Available from autumn , the Continental Supersports – with an improved W12 engine at its heart – has staggering performances figures.

Loaded with 621 bhp and a new Quickshift transmission that halves shift times, it accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds and on to a top speed of 204 mph.

Supercar performance is complemented by an array of chassis enhancements including retuned steering and suspension, utilising lighter weight components, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars.

Agility is further sharpened by the 40:60 rear-biased torque split for the all-wheel drive system, a wider rear track, bespoke lightweight 20-inch alloy wheels and a unique electronic stability programme.

Carbon ceramic brakes are standard fitment, benefiting steering response, grip and ride comfort, while saving weight. Overall, the engineering team has achieved a weight reduction of 243 lb compared with the Continental GT Speed.

Signature premium grade leather and brightware are complemented by carbon fibre panels, replacing traditional wood veneers.

The Continental Supersports is capable of running on either petrol and E85 biofuel or any combination of the two.

Expect a price tag of about £150,000.

Audi’s turbocharged TT RS, featuring a direct-fuel-injection engine, almost seems cheap by comparison at about £43,000, but it is another hot performer.

For example, it will need about 4.5 seconds to reach 62mph – yes, it will match the Audi R8 – with the top speed limited to 155mph.

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

All in all, the compact TT RS – with its lightweight and largely aluminium body – is a driving machine to be reckoned with.

It’s turbo-charged 2.5-litre engine has 300 bhp on tap and the car uses quattro four-wheel drive, with a six-speed manual gearbox. It’s unlikely that Audi’s seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission will be offered, as it cannot cope with the torque.

The model will reunite the German brand with the five-cylinder turbocharged engine format made famous by its original 1980s Quattro.

The TT RS coupé goes on sale next week, and a roadster is due later this year.