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2015 Audi TT

Emotion, dynamism and high-tech – The new Audi TT

• Audi TT and Audi TTS celebrate world premiere at Geneva Motor Show

• Compact sports car impresses with its design and driving dynamics

• Member of the Board of Management for Technical Development, Prof. Dr. Ulrich
• Hackenberg: 'Offering drivers a technology experience that is even more compelling'


A completely revised edition of a modern classic is ready to take center stage: The Audi TT and Audi TTS will celebrate their world premieres at the Geneva Motor Show (these vehicle are currently not available for sale. they do not yet have a general type approval and are therefore not covered by Directive 1999/94/EC.). The third generation of the compact sports car is again captivating, with its emotional design and dynamic qualities. The new Coupé is characterized by the use of innovative technologies in its engine and in its control and display concept, including the Audi virtual cockpit.

'The Audi TT is the epitome of an authentic design icon and a top-performance driving machine,' explains Prof. Dr. Ulrich Hackenberg, Member of the Board of Management of AUDI AG for Technical Development. 'With the new generation, we are making this technology even easier for the driver to experience – just as they would expect from a real sports car.'

Exterior design

When the first-generation Audi TT came on the market in 1998 it was a design revolution – its strictly geometrical, formally coherent design language made it an icon with huge charisma. For the third TT generation, the Audi designers have returned to many of these ideas and placed them in a new context that is as dynamic as it is diverse.

The front of the new TT is dominated by horizontal lines. The Singleframe grille is much broader and flatter than that of the previous model, with a powerful line dividing it into two zones. Starting in the top corners of the grille, sharp contours run in a V across the hood, which bears the four Audi rings – as on the Audi R8 high-performance sports car (combined fuel consumption in l/100 km: 14.9 – 12.4 (15.79 – 18.97 US mpg); combined CO2 emissions in g/km: 349 – 289 (561.66 – 465.10 g/mile). The air intakes feature struts that direct part of the flow away from the front to the flanks.

The flat headlights give the new TT's face a determined look. Xenon plus units are standard, and Audi can optionally provide LED headlights or ones in pioneering Audi Matrix LED technology, where the high beam is generated by controllable individual LEDs. On both versions, there is an unmistakable contour created by the separating strip in the headlights, which is illuminated by light guides.

The Matrix LED headlights consist of 12 LEDs and include another Audi innovation: dynamic turn signals that light up sequentially in the direction in which the driver is steering. The predictive cornering light uses navigation data to move the cone of light into the curve before the steering wheel is turned.

From the side, the new Audi TT is equally lean and muscular; it rests low on the road as if ready to pounce. At 4.18 meters (13.71 ft), the Coupé is almost exactly the same length as its predecessor, though its wheelbase has grown by 37 mm (1.46 in) to 2,505 mm (8.22 ft), making for especially short overhangs. It is 1,832 mm (6.01 ft) wide, and has the same height as the previous model at 1,353 mm (4.44 ft).

A lot of the details of the new Audi TT's profile are reminiscent of the first-generation of the modern classic. The contour of the sill creates a striking refracting edge, while the broad wheel arches form their own geometric bodies. The front wheel arch breaches the line of the hood, which continues over the door as a tornado line and runs almost horizontally through to the tail as a strong body shoulder.

The flat greenhouse gives the impression of being an independent unit and the slight kink in the rear side window gives it additional tension. The fuel flap on the right side panel is the classic circle and surrounded by socket screws; a light tap on the TT logo and the flap opens. This shape is again reminiscent of the first-generation TT. What is new is that there is no tank lid beneath the flap. This means that there is nothing to be unscrewed and the pump nozzle slots straight into the tank neck, just like in motor racing.

Specifically at the tail, horizontal lines underline the impression of the new TT's sporty width. Together with the LED and Audi Matrix LED headlights, the tail lights also have dynamic turn signals. Another parallel to the front headlights: the strip in the tail lights, which also form a daytime running light contour – another Audi innovation. The third brake light is an extremely narrow strip positioned under the edge of the rear spoiler. It plays an essential part in defining the tail light silhouette.

At a speed of 120 km/h (74.56 mph) a spoiler extends from the trunk lid to improve both air resistance and downforce. All models have two large round exhaust tailpipes. These are again reminiscent of the original TT. Like all Audi S models, the TTS exhales through four oval tailpipes.

The optional S line exterior package makes the design of the bumpers, air intakes, Singleframe grille, sills and the rear diffuser even sharper and sportier. And handling is even more dynamic, with 18' wheels and a body that rests 10 mm (0.39 in) lower.

Body

Lightweight construction is one of Audi's greatest areas of expertise. The second-generation Audi TT already featured an Audi Space Frame (ASF) body made from aluminum and steel. For the new TT, Audi has systematically taken this composite construction principle even further, in line with the idea: the right amount of the right material in the right place for optimal functions.

The Coupé's underbody structure has optimized axle loads and is made of modern, high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel alloys. In the sections of the passenger cell that are subject to the most structural stress, form-hardened steel panels, which are both ultra-high-strength and light are used – these constitute 17 percent of the body's weight. The side sills and roof frame are made of extruded aluminum profiles that are integrated into the structure using cast aluminum nodes. This structural principle creates a very rigid and safe bodyshell. The aluminum side sections and roof complete the structure. The hood, doors and trunk lid are also made of this light metal.

All in all, the Audi engineers have, for the second time in a row, succeeded in significantly reducing the unladen weight of the Audi TT. At the first model change in 2006, up to 90 kg (198.42 lb) were saved, and the 2.0 TFSI engine variant of the new TT weighs just 1,230 kg (2,711.69 lb). This makes it around 50 kg (110.23 lb) lighter than its predecessor.

The low overall weight is further proof of Audi's expertise in lightweight construction. It impacts positively especially on acceleration, handling and fuel consumption.

Interior

Clearly structured volumes with a taut surface and light, almost floating lines – the interior is the embodiment of the new Audi TT's pure sports car character. As with the exterior, horizontal lines and surfaces emphasize the width of the interior. The center tunnel console, which supports the calves when driving fast through bends, and the door panels have similar flowing shapes.

The rule was once again: 'less is more.' Clear, purist lines underscore both the lightness and the uncompromising sportiness of the Audi TT's interior. Two other ingenious design and technically innovative tricks enabled the designers to create an instrument panel that is impressively slender: The instrument cluster and the MMI screen have been combined to form a central, digital unit – the so-called Audi virtual cockpit. In addition, the controls for the air conditioning system are positioned directly in the air vents.

Seen from above, the instrument panel resembles the wing of an aircraft; the round air vents – a classic TT feature – are reminiscent of jet engines with their turbine-like design. The vents also contain all the controls for the standard air conditioning system and the optional automatic air conditioning system (standard in the TTS). The controls for seat heating, temperature, direction, air distribution and air flow strength are located at their center; the setting selected is shown on small displays in the automatic air conditioning system. The horizontal control panel is located under the central air vents. The 3D-designed toggle switches activate the hazard warning lights, Audi drive select and the assistance functions.

The standard sports seats in the new Audi TT have integrated head restraints and are positioned lower than in the predecessor model. Compared with the seats in the predecessor model, they are more than five kilograms (11.02 lb) lighter. As an option – and as standard in the TTS – there are newly developed S sport seats with highly contoured and pneumatically adjustable side sections that are exceptionally comfortable and provide excellent support.

The new multifunction steering wheel has a flattened rim, and aluminum-look clasps encompass the spokes. It also has a driver airbag that takes up 40 percent less space without compromising safety, and hence emphasizes the sense of visual lightness.

Countless details demonstrate the high standards which Audi places on interior design and craftsmanship. They include the newly designed, split gear lever, the very precisely engaging MMI rotary pushbutton and the finely finished loudspeaker covers with light guides in the optional Bang & Olufsen sound system.

As a 2+2 seater, the new Audi TT is a sports car that is highly suitable for everyday use. The trunk has a capacity of 305 liters (10.77 cubic ft), which is 13 liters (0.46 cubic ft) more than before, and can be extended by folding the rear seat backrests forward.

Colors and equipment

The new Audi TT offers a far more distinct and colorful range of colors than its predecessor. There are 11 exterior colors, one of which is exclusively for the S line. Seven of the colors in the range are new for the TT, and two of these are completely new for Audi: Nano Gray and Tango Red. There are also two additional paints available for the TTS – crystal-effect Panther Black and the highly expressive Sepang Blue.

There is a completely new range of colors for the interior, too – the Audi TT and the TTS each offer three interior colors to choose from. For the first time, Audi is offering a two-tone interior including sporty contrasting stitching for S line models.

The equipment for the new Audi TTS includes extended interior elements that add individually selectable color accents to the S sport seats clasps, the sides of the center console and the rings of the air vents. Customers with exquisite taste have many options for customization. Upholstery in various cloths and leather grades are available for the seats, as well as three leather packages. The S sport seats have characteristic diamond quilting in the center section.

One special highlight is the exclusive design selection which comprises a combination of two fine leather colors: dark murillo brown on the seats and a slightly metallic shimmering stone-grey pearl on the armrests, knee supports and cowl. Alternating contrasting stitching, dark aluminum, matching paint for the extended interior elements and a special woven floor mat are further features of this elegant upholstery and trim.

For the TTS, the Audi designers have come up with an innovative technical laser texture for the wings of the instrument panel: It has a honeycomb-patterned, slightly raised surface that gives the Audi TTS a unique sporty feel.

Controls and displays

The operating concept for the new TTS has been revised from the ground up – in line with the consistent sports car character, all the elements focus on the driver. There are two variants of the multifunction steering wheel available. Drivers selecting the top version can activate almost all functions from the steering wheel without taking their eyes off the road.

The second control unit is the likewise newly developed MMI terminal on the console of the center tunnel. Two toggle switches activate the navigation/map, telephone, radio and media menus. There are two buttons on both sides of the central rotary pushbutton, supplemented by a main menu and a back button. The driver can easily enter destinations using the touchpad on the top of the rotary pushbutton (from the Connectivity package upwards) – the MMI touch recognizes your personal handwriting. It is also possible to scroll through lists or zoom in on maps.

The menu structure of the MMI resembles that of a smartphone, including the free-text search. All important functions can be accessed directly. One special highlight is the MMI direct search. This enables you to start writing immediately when navigating, without having to use a set form. In most cases, inputting four letters is enough for you to see relevant destinations throughout Europe. The two side buttons activate context-dependent functions (right button) and options (left button). The operating logic is easy to understand and conveys a completely novel 'joy of use.'

Alongside the operations possible using the control panel, the Audi TT offers a further possibility: the voice control system. Audi is also breaking new ground in this area, too. For the first time in the Audi TT, natural voice controls are used that enable simple commands – such as 'Take me to Munich' or 'I want to talk to Sabine' – to control the vehicle systems without having to take your hands off the steering wheel.

Instead of the conventional analog displays, the new TT has the Audi virtual cockpit on board – this fully digital instrument cluster sets new standards with its dynamic animations and precise graphics. Drivers can choose between two display modes: In the classic view, the speedometer and rev counter are in the foreground; in 'infotainment' mode the virtual instruments are smaller. The space that becomes free as a result provides ample room for other functions, such as the navigation map. In the Audi TTS there is a third, sporty mode. Here, the centrally positioned rev counter dominates the display.

With a resolution of 1,440 x 540 pixels, the 12.3' TFT screen boasts brilliantly sharp images. At work in the background is a Tegra 30 graphic processor from market leader Nvidia's Tegra 3 series. At the lower edge of the Audi virtual cockpit, the displays for outside temperature, time and mileage are permanently visible. Warning or information symbols may also appear there.

Engine

(All consumption and output figures are provisional)

Audi offers the new TT and TTS with three different four-cylinder engines with turbocharging and direct injection. Their power output ranges from 135 kW (184 hp) to 228 kW (310 hp). The two TFSI gasoline engines and the TDI combine athletic power with trailblazing efficiency. The start-stop system is a standard feature.

For the launch of the TT, the 2.0 TDI will be available with manual shift and front-wheel drive. It delivers 135 kW (184 hp) and torque of 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft). The new sports car can thus accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.2 seconds and reaches a top speed of 235 km/h (146.02 mph). Standard fuel consumption is a mere 4.2 liters per 100 km (56.00 US mpg), which translates into CO2 emissions of 110 g/km (177.03 g/mile), a new record low level in the sports car world.

The 2.0 TDI features two balancer shafts in the crankcase, adjustable camshafts and a common rail injection system delivering maximum pressure of 2,000 bar. The Audi TT 2.0 TDI meets the Euro 6 standard and, thanks to its high efficiency, bears the 'ultra' label.

The 2.0 TFSI is available in two versions – a 169 kW (230 hp) version for the TT and a 228 kW (310 hp) version for the TTS. In both versions it unites various ultramodern technologies – the additional indirect injection supplementing the direct injection of the FSI, the Audi valvelift system (AVS) to adjust the valve stroke on the exhaust side and thermal management, which uses a rotary valve module and an exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head.

In the Audi TT, the 2.0 TFSI delivers torque of 370 Nm (272.90 lb-ft) from 1,600 to 4,300 rpm. It accelerates the Coupé – which has a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive – from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 6.0 seconds, and on up to an electronically governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

On the version with six-speed S tronic and quattro all-wheel drive, the key figures are as follows: the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) takes 5.3 seconds; top speed is 250 km/h (155.34 mph); fuel consumption of 6.8 liters per 100 km (34.59 US mpg) and CO2 emissions of 159 g per km (255.89 g/mile). The dual-clutch transmission shifts through the six gears without any noticeable interruption in traction, and in manual model it can be controlled by paddles on the steering wheel. In the 'efficiency' mode of Audi drive select, the S tronic selects freewheel as soon as the driver takes his or her foot off the gas pedal.

The Audi TTS is a peak performer. It covers the standard sprint in 4.7 seconds; its top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h (155.34 mph). The 2.0 TFSI produces 380 Nm (280.27 lb-ft) of torque at an engine speed of between 1,800 and 5,700 rpm. Controllable flaps in the exhaust system modulate the sporty sound and make it even richer. A manual transmission is standard. The S tronic option includes launch control, which regulates maximum acceleration from a standstill.

quattro drive

In the new Audi TT, quattro permanent all-wheel drive delivers additional stability, traction and driving fun. It has been consistently advanced and optimized especially for the new TT. Its electro-hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch is mounted on the rear axle. The special pump design reduces weight by around 1.5 kg (3.31 lb) compared with the previous model. The distribution of drive torque between the axles is controlled electronically within fractions of a second.

The intelligence of quattro drive – in other words, the software that determines precisely the possible torque distribution between the front and rear axles – is a completely new development especially for the TT. The innovative control philosophy continuously senses the ambient conditions, driving status and the driver's wishes. This means that the ideal distribution of torque is calculated and the TT's dynamic drive characteristics enhanced in every situation.

By networking quattro drive with Audi drive select, the driver of the new Audi TT can adjust the all-wheel-drive properties to suit his or her individual requirements. In 'auto' mode, this produces optimum traction and balanced driving dynamics. In 'dynamic' mode, torque is distributed to the rear axle earlier and to a higher degree, which means that driving dynamics are enhanced further, especially on surfaces with low friction coefficients.

Alongside optimizing the driving dynamics, the advances made to quattro drive also focused on the subject of efficiency. In the drive select 'efficiency' mode the torque distribution is adjusted to optimize the level of efficiency. Determining driving conditions and driver type precisely allows for efficiency-optimized all-wheel-drive control – which can even result in the temporary shutdown of the quattro drive system. In this operating state, the intelligent software carefully monitors the driving situation and activates the all-wheel drive before torque is once again required at all four wheels. In this way, quattro drive provides optimum efficiency along with a level of traction and dynamic handling that is typically quattro.

Chassis

The chassis also reflects the technological expertise behind the new Audi TT. The front suspension is based on a McPherson system; aluminum components reduce the weight of the unsprung chassis masses. The four-link rear suspension can process the longitudinal and transverse forces separately.

One particular highlight is the new third generation of the adaptive damper control system, Audi magnetic ride. Compared with the previous version, it has been improved in terms of characteristic spread, control dynamics and precision as well as user friendliness. Audi magnetic ride can be adjusted to three settings (comfort – auto – dynamic) via Audi drive select and, at the press of a button, either makes the compact sports car hug the road more tightly or lets it glide smoothly across the road irrespective of which mode the driver selects. Magnetic ride technology delivers ultra-swift wheel-selective control of the damper forces, which means that in all driving situations there is optimum contact between wheel and road.

In this way, the new Audi TT's superb driving dynamics are further optimized, and body control also ensures good comfort behavior. The system is unique in this market segment. Audi magnetic ride is standard on the Audi TTS and is available as an option for all other TT versions.

Another highlight is the standard progressive steering – its rack is designed such that the ratio becomes more direct as the steering is turned. In this way, the new TT can be steered agilely and precisely with little movement of the steering wheel in downtown traffic and on winding country roads. The electromechanically driven and thus highly efficient progressive steering adapts its assistance to speed and forms the basis for the optional assistance systems – Audi active lane assist and park assist.

With its elaborate chassis design and firm setup, the new Audi TT handles superbly in all situations. The body is lowered by 10 mm (0.39 inch) on the TTS, with the S line sport package and with the adaptive damper control system, Audi magnetic ride.

The dynamic driving system known as Audi drive select is an option for the new Audi TT, but standard on the TTS. It controls the engine characteristics and the steering assistance. The driver can choose between comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency and individual modes. In addition, Audi drive select influences several optional modules – the S tronic, quattro drive, the Audi magnetic ride system, which at the press of a button makes the compact sports car hug the road even more closely, and the engine sound. In efficiency mode, Audi drive select influences the air conditioning and the start-stop system accordingly.

There are 11 different wheel versions available. The TT 2.0 TFSI and the 2.0 TDI come as standard with 17' forged wheels in five-spoke design, each of which weighs only 8.7 kg (19.18 lb), and with size 225/50 tires. On request, Audi can supply other wheel designs with diameters of 17', 18' or 19', and tires up to 245/35 R19. quattro GmbH also offers wheels with a diameter of up to 20'.

The front discs are ventilated and, depending on engine version, have a diameter of up to 338 mm (13.31 in). The new electromechanical parking brake that the driver actuates by pressing a button is integrated into the rear braking system. The TTS uses newly developed aluminum fixed-caliper brakes to slow the front wheels; these are five kilograms (11.02 lb) lighter than on the predecessor model – another example of Audi's expertise in lightweight construction.

The electronic stabilization control (ESC), which can be switched off either partly or completely, perfectly complements the car's sporty handling. When driving through bends, torque vectoring takes effect. If required, the drive torque is distributed from the inside front wheel to the outside front wheel (front-wheel drive) or, on quattro models, to the rear wheels, too. Thanks to the difference in propulsive forces, the car turns very easily into the curve, which is helpful for the driver. In this way, bends can be navigated with great precision and neutrally. This significantly boosts the TT's dynamism and stability. Sport mode supports particularly sporty driving, facilitating steering and control when drifting.

The way that all components interact and harmonize enhances agile handling and consequently the driving pleasure that an Audi TT offers – just as you would expect of a sports car.

Equipment

All versions of the new Audi TT Coupé come with a generous range of standard equipment. Alongside those features already mentioned above, the MMI radio and the electromechanical parking brake deserve a special mention. The options include – alongside the S sport seat with numerous leather and trim variants – the convenience key, hold assist, high-beam assist, the LED interior lighting package, front seat heating, and the storage and luggage compartment package.

As regards infotainment, customers can choose from various options. The connectivity package boasts a touchpad, MMI touch. At the top of the modular range is the MMI Navigation plus with its large flash memory, two card readers, DVD drive, Bluetooth interface and voice control system. The T30 chip from market leader Nvidia's Tegra 3 series, which is used in the new generation of the modular infotainment platform, controls all navigation and multimedia functions in the car and, together with the processor, presents all content in the Audi virtual cockpit.

The Audi connect system complements the MMI Navigation plus perfectly – it connects the new TT to the internet using the fast LTE transmission standard. The integrated Wi-Fi hotspot means passengers can surf the internet and e-mail as they please, while the driver can rely on the customized Audi connect services.

The infotainment package is rounded out by attractive components. The Audi Phone Box smoothly links a cell phone to the car. Its centerpiece is a universal planar antenna which is integrated into the storage tray in the center armrest. Thanks to close-range coupling, the phone communicates with the flat planar antenna, which uses an amplifier to transmit the signals to the car antenna.

The Bang & Olufsen Sound System features a 14-channel amplifier and 12 loudspeakers; the woofers in the doors gleam in the dark thanks to an adjustable, discrete light conductor.

Powerful assistance systems make driving the new TT an even more pleasurable experience. As an option the car can be equipped with Audi side assist, which uses rear-mounted radar sensors to help drivers change lane more safely; camera-based traffic sign recognition; Audi active lane assist, which helps the driver if required by steadily correcting steering or warning him or her if there is a danger of unintentionally drifting out of lane and the park assist system with display of surroundings, which independently guides the car into suitable spaces.

by Audi

by Audi

Athletic and sporty with a compact format – Audi presents the new TT in Geneva

• Design line reminiscent of the first model generation

• Audi virtual cockpit and Matrix LED headlights are the technical highlights

• Interior design with light, sporty styling

Taut and muscular, athletic and poised: In 11 days, the new Audi TT will be making its world debut at the Geneva Motor Show. For the third generation of the compact sports car, the designers have reinterpreted a host of ideas from the first TT generation from 1998 – in a dynamic, diverse way.

The front end of the new Audi TT has dominant horizontals. The Singleframe grille is broad and flat. Two contours form a V-pattern over the engine hood. The position of the four rings is also new: They now sit centrally on the hood, echoing the R8.

Struts divide up the large air inlets. The headlights repeat this motif – they are structured with divider struts acting as reflectors for the daytime running light. Audi can supply the headlights as an option with LED technology or its pioneering Matrix LED technology, where controllable individual light-emitting diodes generate the main beam.

Many details of the new Coupé's profile are reminiscent of the first generation's classic design. The sill contour forms a powerful light edge and the wide wheel arches constitute distinct geometrical entities. At the front, the wheel arch intersects the hood join, which continues over the door as the tornado line and extends all the way to the rear. The flat greenhouse looks like an entity in its own right. The shape of the C-post, with a slight kink, gives the TT a powerful, athletic look and enhances the impression of tension.

At the rear, too, horizontal lines reinforce the wide, sporty impression. The struts in the rear lights pick up on the headlights' motif. They remain permanently on – another Audi innovation. The third brake light with a flat strip shape links the two units on either side. All engine versions have two large, round exhaust tailpipes in the diffuser. Like all Audi S models, the TTS features four tailpipes.

Inside, too, the styling is so light it almost seems to float, evoking the clean sports car character of the new Audi TT. The center console and door trims have flowing, matching shapes. Seen from above, the dashboard resembles the wing of an aircraft. The round air vents, a classic TT feature, evoke the engines and incorporate the air conditioning controls. This solution – and the elimination of the central MMI monitor, now replaced by the Audi virtual cockpit – pave the way for the dashboard's remarkably slim architecture.

The third generation of the Audi TT, the design icon, has been systematically refined in every department, both inside and out – resulting in a pedigree sports car. It is particularly notable for its sharper lines, which have been defined very dynamically and precisely. Throughout the entire car, the interplay of surfaces creates incredible tension.

by Audi

by Audi

As the 20th Century neared its end, it appeared as if car design, too, was taking its final gasps. The automobile was being replaced by a device more akin to a rolling computer than an instrument of freedom. Romance was being drained from the automotive scene as cars like the Toyota Prius became more fashionable than performance cars and isolated SUVs towered above the fine-handling sedans and wagons that seemed to have fallen out of public favor.

The problem was obvious: technology, safety features, and environmental concerns were reshaping the priorities of the automobile, and no manufacturer could figure out how to work those ingredients into the recipe for a truly exciting car. The problem was obvious, but the solution was not.

One manufacturer would come through, though, with a car that satisfied the evolving automotive zeitgeist even as it appealed to the more traditionally stimulating automotive values of beauty and driving excitement. That manufacturer was Audi, and the car was the TT.

By the late 1990s, Audi had established a remarkably strong brand identity considering the difficulties faced by the company just a decade prior. When Audi was charting out new territory in the 1980s through its pioneering developments in all-wheel-drive technology and aerodynamics, the company made sure to not lock itself into a strict brand image as had the other mainstream German automakers. Volkswagen produced cars for the masses, BMW produced cars for the driving enthusiast, and Mercedes-Benz produced cars for those who preferred (and could afford) supreme comfort and solidity.

Audi, conversely, did not adopt strictly static elements, such as sportiness or luxuriousness, as it defined its products in the 1980s. Audi instead developed a dynamic formula for creating cars that could be sporty, luxurious, and even fashionable through their remarkable ability to embrace technology and apply the ever-changing ideas of auto design to an innovative and capable product.

So while BMW tried to make their cars quick and Mercedes-Benz tried to make their cars comfortable, Audi tried only to produce a better car by riding the crests of technological waves. This strategy, after years of application, created the clear brand image that Audi has today. The 1980s saw Audi develop one of the most radically aerodynamic sedans of its time, as well as the successful use of all-wheel-drive as a means of improving handling in all weather conditions.

It followed naturally, then, that Audi should be one of the first automakers to successfully create a new type of car for the new millennium—a car that applied modern ideas, including the technology responsible for creating some of the most uninspiring and over-processed automobiles that the world had ever known, to an exciting and innovative package.

When the Audi TT was introduced in 1998 for the 1999 model year, it was an absolute sensation. Everything about it spoke to a new generation of automotive design. Though the TT would eventually be offered with a six-cylinder power plant, it was initially offered only with a turbocharged four-cylinder—a brave step for a car aimed at six-cylindered rivals from Porsche and BMW. The TT was available with front-wheel-drive, or with 'quattro' all-wheel-drive, both of which offered better foul-weather traction than rear-wheel-driven competitors.

The real audacity of the TT did not come from its small-displacement engine or its odd choice of drive wheels, though, but from its radical appearance dictated by J Mays and Freeman Thomas. With its Bauhaus-inspired design language, replete with perfectly sculpted fender flares and a bold roofline, the TT's design was bristling with the ideas of a new automotive age. The look was remarkably solid, an effect accentuated on silver TTs, which appeared to have been milled from a single block of billet aluminum.

The interior, too, was revolutionary. The extensive use of real aluminum to accent high-quality black plastics and leather was a trend-setting idea that, over a decade later, still looks modern and exciting. Martin Smith is credited with the TT's interior design, and his careful work created a cockpit that exuded the same brilliant sense of modernity and style as the car's outer skin.

The TT was beautiful, and it was also exciting to drive—although some of that excitement was unwanted. The Audi TT was based upon the same platform that underpinned the Volkswagen Golf, and should never have been considered a true sports car. Its price, power levels, and stunning looks, though, meant that some of its competitors were thoroughbred sporting machines like the Porsche Boxster. This led to unfavorable handling characteristics, where the TT showed that its racetrack capabilities were not in line with its striking appearance. Unpredictable oversteer prevented the TT from realizing any sporting aspirations it may have had, though it is likely that Audi always intended for the car to be more of a stylistic sensation than an accomplished track tool.

Any handling issues that the Audi TT had at its limits of adhesion were forgotten entirely in around-town driving, where the TT cosseted its pilot with the comfort, security, and unique style of a thoroughly modern vehicle.

A Roadster version of the TT, replacing the Coupe's pretty roofline and useless rear seat with a folding soft top and a polished pair of roll-over hoops, was offered after the first year of TT production. The Roadster was a sensible addition and a successful seller, adding the option of open-air motoring to the supremely stylish TT lineup.

The Audi TT was one of the first cars to embrace the technology of the new millennium in a unique and exciting manner. It may have relied heavily upon its looks to garner attention, but its bold appearance was as innovative and fresh as any other part of the car. The Audi TT proved that excitement can exist even in a modern automotive climate that is often at odds with the traditional elements of vehicular fun—and that's quite an achievement for a company that, just a few decades ago, was an unfamiliar name to most Americans.

Sources:

'Audi TT.' CarAutoPortal.com n. pag. Web. 28 Jun 2010. http://www.carautoportal.com/audi/audi-tt.php.

Enright, Andy. 'Audi TT (1999-2006).' Yahoo Cars 04 Oct 2006: n. pag. Web. 28 Jun 2010. http://uk.cars.yahoo.com/car-reviews/car-and-driving/audi-tt-2004432.html.

'Model Guide: TT Coupe/Roadster.' AudiWorld.com n. pag. Web. 28 Jun 2010. http://www.audiworld.com/model/.

by Evan Acuña

A two-door compact sports car, the Audi TT was manufactured by Audi Hungaria Motor Kft. in Gyor, Hungary since 1998 for the German automaker and Volkswagen Group subsidiary AUDI A.G. Today the TT is now in its second generation, and both generations have been available in two car body styles; as a 2+2 Coupe or two-seater Roadster. Both versions have been built on consecutive generations of the Volkswagen Group A platform beginning with the A4. Due to the platform-sharing, the TT has identical powertrain and suspension layouts as its related platform-mates; which includes a front-mounted transversely orientated engine, front-wheel drive or Haldex Traction-based Quattro on-demand four-wheel drive system, and fully independent front suspension using MacPherson struts.

In the spring of 1994 at the Volkswagen Group Design Center in California the styling of the Audi TT began. The TT was originally unveiled as a concept car at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show. J Mays and Freeman Thomas were credited for the design, along with Martin Smith and Romulus Rost who contributed to the award-winning interior design. The TT takes its name from the successful motor racing tradition of NSU in the British Isle of Man TT motorcycle race. In 1911 NSU began competing in the TT, and eventually merged into the company now known as Audi. The Audi TT follows the NUS 1000TT, 1200TT and TTS cars of the 1960s in taking their names from the race.

Enabling seamless design features on the first-generation TT was a previously unused laser beam welding adaptation, but which actually delayed its introduction. In the beginning Audi didn t offer any type of automatic transmission option for TT. From 2003 though a dual clutch six-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox became available, with the U.K. TT variants becoming the world s first user of a dual clutch transmission configured for a right-hand drive car. Though the major world first for a road car equipped with a dual clutch transmission was claimed earlier by a Volkswagen Group platform-mate; the left hand drive Volkswagen Golf Mk4 R32.

With an internal designation Typ 8N, the production model was introduced as a Coupe in September of 1998, followed closely by a roadster in August of 1999. The production model was based on the Volkswagen Group A4 platform as used for the Volkswagen Golf Mk4, the original Audi A3, the Skoda Octavia and others. Compared to the concept the production model was styled only a little different from the concept, except for the slightly re-profiled bumpers, and the addition of a rear quarterlight windows behind the doors. In October of 1998 the factory production commenced.

After a series of high-speed accidents in Europe, early TT models gained press coverage. During abrupt lane changes or sharp turns crashes were reported along with related fatalities that occurred at speeds in excess of 110 mph. Late in 1999 and early in 2000, both the coupe and roadster models were recalled to improve predictability of the car s handling at extreme high-speeds. Newly added were Audi s Electronic Stability Programme, and rear spoiler, along with suspension modifications. All of the changes and updates were subsequently incorporated into future series production version of the vehicle. In June of 2006 factory production of this generation ended.

Sharing an identical powertrain layout as its related Volkswagen Group platform-mates mechanically, the TT utilizes a transversely mounted internal combustion engine, with either front-wheel drive, or quattro on-demand four-wheel drive. Initially it was available with a 1.8 liter inline four-cylinder 20-valve turbocharged engine in two states of DIN-rated power outputs; 178 hp and 222 hp. All of these engine share the identical fundamental design, however the 166 kW version features a larger K04 turbocharger, an additional intercooler on the right side, forged connecting rods, a dual tailpipe exhaust and several other internals; which were designed to accommodate the increase in turbo boost; from around 10 lbs per square inch to 15 lbs per square inch. Branded as Quattro ; Haldex Traction enabled four wheel drive which was optional on the 180 engine, and was standard on the more powerful 225 version.

In early 2003 the original four cylinder engine range was integrated with a 184 kilowatts 3.2 liter VR6 engine, which came standard with the Quattro four-wheel drive system. The following July, a new six-speed dual clutch transmission called the Direct-Shift Gearbox which improved acceleration through much reduced shift times, was available, along with a stiffer suspension.

In 2005, Audi unveiled the Coupe-only limited edition Audi TT Quattro Sport. The Quattro sport was built by Audi A.G. high performance specialist subsidiary Quattro GmbH and it featured increased power from its 1.8 liter turbocharged engine rising to 27 hp and 236 lb ft of torque. It also was reduced in weight by 165 lbs which allowed it to reach 0 to 62.1 mph in just 5.9 seconds and it had a top speed of 155.3 mph. Audi achieved this weight lot by deleting the spare wheel, the removal of the rear parcel shelf and rear seats along with deleting the standard fitment air conditioning. On the inside, the Quattro sport featured lightweight fixed-back Recaro bucket seats. You could tell the Quattro Sport from the other TT Coupes by its two-tone paint scheme and the exclusive 18 15-spoe cast aluminum alloy wheels, plus the identical body kit fitted to the TT 3.2 V6, up-rated suspension settings, black exhaust tailpipes, V6-spec brakes with red-painted calipers up front and new wheels that were wider at the rear which greatly improved handling.

The first generation TT has undergone two U.S. class action lawsuits affective specific models. In 2007, Pearson, Soter, Simon, Warshaw and Penny at LLP and the Law Office of Robert L. Starr filed a class action lawsuit against Volkswagen Group of America claimed that the timing belts for model year 1999-2003 Audi and Volkswagen cars equipped with a 1.8 liter turbocharged engine fail prematurely. The vehicles included in the suit are the Audi TT, Audi A4 and the Volkswagen Passet. The plain claims that the timing belts fail prior to the service interval, as stated in the owner s manual. In May of 2008 the parties had reached a class-wide settlement and preliminary approval of the settlement was granted by the court. Another lawsuit entered May of 2008 alleged that the instrument clusters on 2000-2005 model year Audi TTs were defective.

For 2000, the original generation Audi TT was nominated for the North American Car of the Year award. For 2000 and 2001 it was also on Car and Driver magazine s Ten Best list.

In 2005, a sneak-peak of the second-generation TT was revealed in the form of the Audi Shooting Brake concept car at the Tokyo Motor Show in 2005. The concept featured angular styling, and a shooting brake two-door hatchback body style, and was an insight into the new TT design. On April 6, 2006 Audi unveiled the second-generation TT; internal designation Typ 8J. Constructed on the Volkswagen Group A5 platform, the 2nd generation TT utilized aluminum in the front body panels and steel in the rear which enhanced its near-neutral front-to-rear weight distribution. This vehicle was available in front-wheel drive or quattro four-wheel drive layout and it was available once again as a 2+2 Coupe and as a two-seater Roadster. In comparison to the previous generation, this newest generation is five inches longer and three inches wider. In August of 2006 factory production began.

In the beginning the powertrain options only included petrol engines, which consist of either one of two inline four cylinder engines; the all-new 1.8 liter EA888 Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection or the more common and established EA113-variant 2.0 liter TFSI. Derived from the Audi Le Mans endurance race cars, the Fuel Stratified Injection and offers advanced power output and cleaner emissions. Brought over from the previous year the 3.2 liter V6 badged VR6 engine was also available in the Canadian model. In the 2009 model year the 2.0 TSFI Quattro models with the latest EA888 engine.

Standard on this generation was a six-speed manual transmission with the six-speed Direct-Shift Gearbox as optional for all but 1.8 liter engine. Standard on V6 models was Quattro on-demand four-wheel drive, once again using the Haldex Traction clutch, but not available on 1.8 TFSI. The new 8J TT now featured a multi-link fully independent rear suspension which complimented the front independent suspension, much like all its PQ35 platform buddies. Audi Magnetic Ride was Audis new active suspension which enhanced the entire suspension system and was available as an option. This extra feature was based on Delphi s MagneRide, a suspension which utilized magneto rheological dampers. Also new on this TT was an updated rear spoiler that automatically extends at speeds greater than 75 mph and retracts again below 50 mph. This spoiler can be manually controlled by the driver through a switch on the dash.

Debuted at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show, the 2.0 TDI Quattro is the first diesel engined version of the Audi TT in the European market. As the name implies, it is only available with Quattro, and is available in Coupe and Roadster version. Power came from the new 2.0 liter Turbocharged Direct Injection engine, now with 16 valves, double overhead camshaft, 1,800-bar common rail fuel delivery and eight-hole piezo fuel injections that produces a DIN-rated output of 168 bhp at 4,200 revolutions per minute and torque of 258 lb/ft at 1,750 to 2,500 rpm. This model also includes a six-speed manual transmission.

Acceleration was rated from 0 to 62.1mph on the Coupe in just 7.5 seconds and could reach a top speed of 140.4 mph. The Roadster was slightly less aerodynamic and reached 0 to 62.1 mph in 7.7 seconds and had a top speed of 138 mph. Audi claims that the average fuel consumption for the Cope variant with the 2.0 TDI engine is 5.3 liters which achieves a CO2 emissions rating of 139 gram. The Roadster TDI achieves an average of 51.4 mph and CO2 of 144 gram.

Audi released the first Audi S model of the TT range at the 2008 North American International Auto Show in Detroit with a heavily revised 2.0 TFSI engine. The cylinder block, fuel injectors and cylinder head were all modified from the base 2.0 TFSI engine. Along with additional modifications, this engine produces a DIN-rated motive power output of 268 bhp and generates a torque turning force of 258 lb ft of torque from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm. The S was available with a choice of either a six-speed close-ratio manual transmission or a six-speed S tronic transmission. The S tronic gearbox was the only available transmission in the United States and it was only available with Quattro four-wheel drive as standard.

The suspension in the S was lowed by 0.4 inches in comparison to the standard models and included Audi Magnetic Ride as standard and a all-new two-stage sports-biased Electronic Stability Programme . Clamped by a single-piston gloss black caliper which was embellished with a bold TTS logo was the radially ventilated front disc brakes and a lap time that was prominently displayed in the center of the instrument cluster. Standard on the S were 9Jx18 5-parallel-spoke design alloy roadwheels with 245/40 ZR18 high performance tires. 19 5-spoke star wheels and tires were optional on this vehicle. Compared to the standard model the exterior featured some updates with a TTS body styling with a newly redesigned front, redesigned rear bumper, side sill extensions, four exhaust tailpipes and larger air intakes. The TTS s Coupe performance was recorded at 0-62.1mph in just 5.4 seconds, with the Roadster just two-tenths slower at 5.6 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 155mph.At the 2008 Isle of Man TT motorcycle races Audi offered 8 TTS cars for official use.

At the 2008 W rthersee Tour at P rtschach am W rthersee in Austria Audi debuted a new show car variant of the second generation Audi TT; the TT Clubsport Quattro. It was shown only in an open-topped speedster variant, and its 2.0 TFSI engine was tuned to give 296 bhp. The soft top from the standard TT Roadster disappeared and was replaced with two humps , along with two substantial roll bars. The Clubsport Quattro featured LED daytime running lamps, black-painted single frame grill , an aggressive body kit with large frontal air intakes and a lower spoiler lip. The axle trip was widened 2.6 inches with bolder and wider wheel arch extensions, wider side sills, polished 19-inch alloys and 255-section tires, and the rear were twin polished stainless steel oval tailpipes next to a new rear diffuser.

On the inside the Clubsport Quattro featured racing bucket seats, a six-speak S tronic dual-clutch transmission with Quattro four-wheel drive, TTS spec brakes and lightweight aluminum detail throughout the interior. Though Audi has not ruled out the possibility of a small scale production, it was primarily a show car .

Debuted at the 2009 Geneva Auto Show, Audi released the first ever compact sports car Audi RS model; the new Audi TT RS which was available from 2009 in Coupe and Roadster variants. Developed by Audi s high performance subsidiary Quattro GmbH at Neckarsulm, the new TT RS harks back to the sporting legacy of 1980s Audi Quattros with their high performance five-cylinder turbocharged engines. The TT RS included an all-new 2.5 liter inline five-cylinder Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection petrol engine which produced a DIN-rated motive power output of 335 bhp from 5,4000 to 6,700 rpm and a torque of 450 newton meters at 1,600-5,300 rpm.

The Audi RS2 Avant and all Audi RS models afterwards were assembled at the Quattro GmbH factory in Neckarsulm, Germany. The TT RS however will be the first Audi RS vehicle not assembled in Germany, instead it was completely assembled in the Audi factory in Gy r, Hungary alongside its lesser Audi TT mates.

Featuring a new short-shift close-ratio six-speed manual transmission the TT RS is only available with Audi s trademark Quattro four-wheel drive system, like all RS models. The TT RS utilized a specially adapted version of the latest generation multi-plate clutch from Haldex Traction. The Quattro system included addition like a constant velocity joint before the cardan propeller shaft and a compact rear-axle differential that was up-rated to cope with the increased torque from the five cylinder turbo engine. The TT RS featured a 0.4 inch lower ride height like the TTS and featured optional Audi Magnetic Ride and rides on a standard 18 inch road wheels with 245/45 ZR18 tires. The front discs on the TT RS are clamped by gloss black painted four-piston calipers which featured the RS logo and the braes were up-rated to include two-piece cross-drilled and radially vented front discs sized at 14.6 inches in diameter. The rear ventilated discs were 12.2 inches in diameter.

The Audi TT RS also featured a fixed rear spoiler with a retractable being an option. The interior was black with heated Alcantara/leathe sports seats with Silk Nappy and Fine Napppa leather as an option. Also available as an option were Recaro RS bucket seats that first appeared in the Audi B7 RS4. The Sport button which sharpened the throttle response and deepened the exhaust note was carried over from the B7 RS4 along with a three-stage user-selectable Electronic Stability Programme.

In March 2009 the TT RS went on sale and delivery began in the summer. The vehicle had a top speed of 155.3 mph and could achieve 0-62.1 mph in just 4.6 seconds, and 4.7 seconds for the roadster. A factory option de-restricted the top speed to 174.0 mph. The Coupe has a kerb weight of 3.197 lbs and the Roadster weighed 3,329 lbs.

The recipient of numerous awards, the second generation TT won the inaugural Drive Car of the Year, Top Gear Coupe of the Year in 2006, Fifth Gear Car of the Year in 2006, World Design Car of the Year 2007, Autobild Most Beautiful Car and being a finalist for World Car of the Year.

by Jessican Donaldson