WHEN THE AUDI TT arrived on the scene, it was a real eye-opener. The design was fresh and unlike anything else on the market, and it enjoyed the success it deserved.
It’s hard to believe that the TT arrived 20 years ago and we’re up to the third generation.
The latest iteration, announced in Ingolstadt on July 19, gets more power and more standard equipment.
One of the highlights is the “virtual cockpit”, still as impressive and exciting as when it was first introduced. Now it’s presented on a 12.3-inch display and allows a choice of classic view with speedo and tacho front and centre, or infotainment mode. Optional is a new sport display that shows engine output, torque and g-forces. The MMI terminal on the central console has been simplified with just six keys plus a touchpad. On the new model, even at base level, there’s Audi’s drive select dynamic handling system, a rain and light sensor, heated exterior mirrors and multifunction steering wheel for control of the infotainment and voice-control system.
The exterior design is more masculine (long in the past are the days when the TT was derided as a “hairdresser’s car”). Picking up on current-day Audi trends, the new TT gets a three-dimensional “Singleframe” grille with large side air inlets. At the rear, strong horizontal lines underscore the width. The fuel filler doesn’t have a cap under the outer door, so the fuel pump nozzle can be inserted directly into the opening.
LED or Matrix LED headlights are optional. Also optional is the S line exterior package which adds a full-length front splitter, vertical air inlets, radiator grille in titanium black and different side sills with inserts. It also gets a wider rear diffuser and vertical air inlets below the rear lights.
Standard wheels are 17-inch alloys with 18-, 19- and 20-inch alloys optional.
There are three new colours (Cosmos Blue, Pulse Orange) and Turbo Blue (only available with S Line).
Engines come in various performance levels, and the transmission is either a six-speed manual or a seven-speed dual clutch.
With the S Line package or Audi magnetic ride, the body is lowered by 10mm. Other chassis highlights include progressive steering, four-link rear suspension and electronic stability control. In fast cornering, wheel selective torque control is activated, as are precise brake interventions on the unloaded wheels on the inside of the curve.
The tailgate has been stretched to liberate more luggage space, although it’s still not voluminous at 305 litres (the Roadster has 280 litres). But then, you don’t buy a TT for its luggage-toting ability.
The roadster gets a soft top in either black or grey. It can be electronically opened at speeds up to 50km/h and takes just 10 seconds to open or close.
Audi will announce pricing details closer to launch date.