The
first generation Audi TT,
launched in the autumn of 1998 – took the sports coupe segment
by storm and raised Audi's brand profile. The second generation
TT Coupe is even more dynamic than its predecessor – in terms
of its design, its drivetrain, and its running gear.
The very architecture of the new Audi TT Coupe embodies the
style, stability and power of a pure driving machine. The bullish
stance of the base body and the low, narrow styling of the greenhouse
together form a sculpture of simple, unfussy lines. The Audi
design team has lovingly adopted and enhanced the visual code
– the motif of circles and domes – of the predecessor model.
The new Audi TT appears more stretched, and even at a standstill
seems to be striving to move forward; taut panels emphasize
the impression of dynamic movement. The new TT is 5.3 inches
longer than its predecessor at 162.9 inches, and 3 inches wider
at 71.8 inches.
The body is constructed in the ASF Space Frame design developed
by Audi and consists of aluminum and steel. This is the first
time that it has combined different materials alongside each
other. 69 percent of the superstructure is made of aluminum.
The steel components making up the remaining 31 percent are
to be found at the rear end, so as to ensure balanced distribution
of the axle loads. To improve downforce, a spoiler is extended
from the tailgate when the vehicle reaches a speed of 75 mph.
The new Audi TT, like its predecessor, is initially available
as a 2 + 2-seater coupe; the separate roadster model is scheduled
for later launch. The basic luggage capacity of the easily accessible
boot, under its large-format lid, is 290 liters. This capacity
can be increased to 700 liters by folding down the rear seat
backs. The sports seats provide outstanding side restraint.
There is a choice of three different leathers for the covers.
The Cockpit
The cockpit is oriented strictly to the driver and is perfectly
ergonomic in design. It embodies the classic circles motif of
the TT in a number of ways, such as in the three centre air
vents.
Engines: 2.0l Turbocharged Four-cylinder or 3.2-liter
V6
Two powerful petrol engines are available to power the car.
The 2.0l turbocharged four-cylinder TFSI unit featuring FSI
direct injection develops 200 bhp. With a six-speed manual gearbox,
it accelerates the TT to 60 mph in just 6.2 seconds, reaching
a top speed of 150 mph. The sonorous-sounding, naturally aspirated
3.2-liter V6 engine develops 250 bhp, accelerating from zero
to 60 mph in 5.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 155 mph
(electronically governed).
Both engines are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox. On
request they can be combined with the dynamic S tronic dual-clutch
gearbox. Whereas the four-cylinder engine comes with front-wheel
drive, the V6 distributes its power across both axles by way
of the quattro permanent four-wheel drive system – an exclusive
technology feature in the sports coupe segment.
The Suspension
The Audi dynamic suspension was newly developed and tuned for
the Audi TT Coupe. One of its hallmarks is its self-steering
behavior right up to the handling limits, which ranges from
neutral to light understeer. This sporty orientation produces
driving fun, agility and supreme handling characteristics.
The track enlargement, with larger wheels ranging from 16 to
19 inches in size, and extensive changes in the area of elastokinematics
were key areas of the developers’ work. The new multi-link rear
suspension ensures optimum driving dynamics at a sports car
level.
The high-tech Audi magnetic ride damper system is available
as an option. In this system, tiny magnetic particles circulate
in the oil inside the shock absorbers. When a voltage is applied
to them, they alter the damping characteristics within milliseconds.
This adaptive system simultaneously ensures high levels of ride
comfort and thoroughly sporty dynamism, according to the specific
driving scenario and the preferences of the driver.
Comfortable, Too
The standard features of the new Audi TT include an automatic
air conditioning system and a flat-bottomed sports steering
wheel. The latter is not only entirely suitable for the sports
car but also makes it easier to get in and out. The air vents,
steering wheel spokes and many of the controls are finished
in an aluminum look.
With regard to options, customers can choose from a variety
of high-tech solutions, including the adaptive light dynamic
cornering light system and the Audi parking system which aids
parking.
The new Audi TT marks the premiere of a new generation of audio
systems. It is characterized by state-of-the-art reception and
playback technology and intuitive user control. Six so-called
softkeys control a variety of functions depending on which menu
is selected. The chorus radio system with single CD drive comes
as standard. A Bluetooth interface is available for mobile phones.
The telephone function can be operated via the MMI, the multifunction
steering wheel and by speech control. The operator control for
the optional navigation system takes its cues from the exemplary
MMI system familiar from the Audi A6, A8 and Q7 model series.