The original Audi TT, launched in 1998, created a storm in the sports coupe market and did wonders for the Audi brand profile. Now, the manufacturer is preparing to launch the second generation of this highly successful sports car. The new TT Coupe features a number of improvements over its predecessor, in terms of engine, running gear and all-round design.
The new Audi TT Coupe is an embodiment of style, dexterity and performance, making it a pure driving machine. It is a larger vehicle than the first generation TT, gaining 137mm in length and 78mm in width, standing 4,178mm long and 1,842mm wide. The aluminium and steel body is constructed in the Audi Space Frame (ASF) design and, for the first time, features a combination of different materials. Aluminium accounts for 69% of the TT’s superstructure, with the remaining 31% made up of steel components, chiefly at the rear end, ensuring equal distribution of axle loads.
Engineering
The new TT comes with the choice of two engines. The first is a 2.0-litre, turbocharged, 4-cylinder TFSI powerhouse, boasting FSI direct injection, and capable of producing 200 bhp. Controlled by a 6-speed manual gearbox, this engine can accelerate the TT from 0-100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds, with a maximum speed of 240 km/h. The second engine is a naturally aspirated, 3.2-litre V6, producing 250 bhp. This option achieved 0-100 km/h in 5.7 seconds, with an electronically controlled maximum speed of 250 km/h. Whilst both engines come with the 6-speed manual transmission as standard, an “S tronic” dual-clutch gearbox is also available on request. The four-cylinder version comes with front-wheel drive, whilst the V6 engine employs the “quattro” four-wheel drive setup.
Design
Like its predecessor, the second generation Audi TT will initially be released as a 2+2-seater coupe, with a roadster version in the pipeline for future release. It boasts a boot capacity of 290 litres, with the ability to increase this to 700 litres by collapsing the rear seat backs. The front seats provide exceptional lumbar support, and come in a choice of three leather finishes. The cockpit as a whole is superbly driver-centred, and has an ergonomic design. The classic Audi TT circles motif is hinted at by a number of design features, such as the three central air vents.
Standard features on the new Audi TT include automatic air conditioning and a sports steering wheel with flat bottom, which not only increases the sports feel of the interior, but also makes getting in and out much easier for the driver. An aluminium look finish is applied to the air vents, steering wheel spokes and a number of controls.
In terms of options, buyers have the choice of a number of high-tech extras, such as Audi’s dynamic cornering light adjustment system and parking sensors.