The Audi TT in both
its coupe and roadster form embodies pure dynamism, in terms of design,
engine power and performance. The first-generation TT became an immediate
cult car, and the second generation is writing the next chapter in the success
story.
Body and interior
The design of the TT is highly expressive. It sits
on the road like the sculpture of an athlete. The rear end, with its
automatically extending spoiler, symbolizes power and dynamism. The lamps
create a three-dimensional effect, with square light cubes. The Audi TT was
chosen as "2007 World Car Design of the Year" not long after it was first
launched. The coupe also offers a range of practical everyday talents. Its
trunk has a capacity of 290 liters (10.24 cubic ft), which can be
increased to 700 liters (24.72 cubic ft) by folding down the split
rear seat backs. The body
is constructed according to the Audi Space Frame (ASF) principle and is made
of aluminum innovatively combined with steel. Steel components are used mainly
on the rear end and in the doors a mix that provides for outstanding
distribution of axle loads. The TT Coupes bodyshell weighs just 206
kilograms (454.15 lb), and is key to the high driving dynamics of
the car. When empty, the TT 1.8 TFSI weighs just 1,240 kilograms (2733.73
lb) a truly exemplary achievement. The dynamic flow of the exterior
continues inside and is underscored by the stringent standards of craftsmanship
and material quality that are typical of Audi. The cockpit embodies the classic
circle motif of the TT in a number of ways, such as in the three center air
vents. The sports steering wheel sits perfectly in the hand; its leather
rim is flattened at the bottom. The sports seats are low-slung, and offer
sturdy lateral support. They are optionally power-operated. The navigation
plus system includes a DVD drive and two MP3 memory card readers. The
state-of-the-art audio units can be combined with high-end sound
systems.
Drivetrain
A choice of four transverse-mounted engines provide
the Audi TT with plenty of torque and top-level power. There are two TFSI
four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline direct injection units, a naturally aspirated
V6 gasoline unit and the two-liter TDI an engine with which Audi is
once again setting new trends. The worlds first diesel engine in a
production sports car delivers a healthy 125 kW (170 bp) of power output
and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, though consuming on average just
5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 US mpg) a sensational
class-leading figure.
The range:
- 1.8 TFSI developing 118 kW (160 bp)
- 2.0 TFSI and 2.0 TFSI quattro developing 147 kW (200 bp)
- 3.2 quattro developing 184 kW (250 bp)
- 2.0 TDI quattro developing 125 kW (170 bp)
The standard transmission is a six-speed manual. The
optional S tronic dual-clutch transmission shifts gear automatically and
lightning-fast. In manual mode the driver uses the selector lever or steering
wheel-mounted paddles to control it. In the top-of-the-range engine variants
the quattro system rapidly switches the power between the axles as required.
Its electronically controlled and hydraulically operated multi-plate clutch
works with a high-performance pressure accumulator.
Suspension
The suspension system of the TT Coupe provides optimum
dynamism. The front suspension employs triangular aluminum wishbones. The
responsive rack and pinion steering is highly efficient thanks to its
electromechanical speed-sensitive assistance. The springs and dampers of
the four-link rear suspension are installed separately from each other. The
relatively soft setup of the trailing arms means they absorb the propulsive
and braking forces efficiently. By contrast, the three transverse links on
each wheel are stiff, so as to introduce the lateral forces precisely into
the vehicle body. The result is fascinatingly dynamic handling, paired with
high levels of ride comfort. All Audi TT models are fitted with large disk
brakes on every wheel.
Audi offers the innovative Audi magnetic ride high-tech
damper system as an option. Its adaptive control provides a choice of high
ride comfort or thoroughly sporty dynamism with perfect roll stabilization.
The driver can toggle between normal and sport mode
at the flick of a switch.
The equipment, specifications, and prices stated
herein refer to the model line offered for sale in Germany. Subject to change
without notice; errors and omissions excepted. |