Here it is, once again. After reaching a whole new generation, Audi’s beloved sports car now went to the latest Paris Auto Show in two very interesting variations. One of them is Sportback, which debuted as a concept-car in order to test how much would people like if a third and a fourth doors were added. The other is what you are about to meet. TT’s most charming variation in its latest form, combining all the efficiency-focused technologies the VW Group has to offer, with a reinvention of the typical silhouette that has conquered a legion of fans for two decades.
The new automobile is so great that there is only one way in which it disappoints: surprises. This is a convertible TT and nothing more, just like pretty much any other version of any other German car. On the one hand, this means the only differences for the coupé are related to the removable top. Audi’s engineering work has reduced the system’s weight to just 39 kg, thanks to the use of materials such as aluminum, magnesium, plastic and steel. Besides, there is electric operation as standard, four color options and the very interesting feature of not taking any trunk space when closed: your suitcases will have 290 liters regardless of the weather. But if you leave it on, Audi claims you will get a drag coefficient as low as 0.30.
On the other hand, having changed only what was necessary also means the coupé’s qualities have appeared once again. The central console repeats a design whose biggest elements are the air vents, which makes it very interesting in times when pretty much any other car features a huge touchscreen. However, those who have met the new coupé know that it only takes looking a little more: TT uses a 12.3”, high-definition LCD screen working as the instrument cluster, which can include a last-generation navigation system. Another great feature is VW Group’s MQB platform, once again bringing lightweight aluminum construction and several electronic systems, whether for entertainment, fuel efficiency, performance or safety.
When it comes to performance, the new roadster will make its debut with three options. The diesel option is a TDI four-cylinder 2.0L good for 182 hp. Switching to gasoline, the TFSI four-cylinder 2.0L reaches 227 hp. And if you want to go faster, TTS delivers 306 hp – the even sportier TT RS may stay restricted to the coupé. quattro system will be standard and paired to an automatic transmission, which features two clutches and six speeds. Other very interesting items are the optional adaptive dampers and the Drive Select, which allows the driver to choose between Comfort, Auto and Dynamic driving modes. The new Audi TT already went on sale in Europe, starting at €37,900. North-Americans will receive it a couple of months later.