We recently we brought you a rendering of what the 2014 Audi TT could look like and now that the car has officially been revealed at the Geneva Motor Show, its clear we were pretty much spot on.
As expected, the TT draws much of its inspiration from the company’s Crossover Concept with narrow headlamps, a slimmer look, a more aggressive front end and prominent wheels arches. Inside we see that the MMI display that was positioned above the previous model’s centre console has been omitted and a 12,3-inch TFT-information screen, which is situated right behind the steering wheel, has taken its place. The system will allow the driver the swap between standard and infotainment views. Besides the shift in technology, the interior appears completely new. The dashboard is now angled towards the driver – even more so than before – while the absence of the MMI screen results in a cleaner overall design. Each of the turbine-like air vents features a small screen showing the settings of the climate control system.
Under the skin, there’s a host of new tech. The major upgrade is the adoption of the VW Group’s versatile MQB platform that underpins several new models, including the VW Golf 7, A3 as well as Skoda and Seat models. The new TT measures in at 4 018 mm long – making it the exact same length as its predecessor. It does, however, have a longer wheelbase at 2 505 mm, is 1 832 mm wide and has a height of 1 353 mm (same as the outgoing model).
The engine line-up is made up of a 2,0-litre TDI unit with 135 kW and 380 N.m of torque, a “regular” 2,0 TFSI engine with 169 kW and 370 N.m, and fettled version for the TTS with 228 kW and 380 N.m. When mated with a six-speed manual ‘box, the 2,0 TFSI version is able to complete the zero-to-100 km/h sprint in six seconds (5,3 seconds when equipped with the S tronic transmission), while the TTS with its quattro system and the S tronic ‘box can cover the same distance in 4,7 seconds before it hits its electronically limited top speed of 250 km/h.
The new Audi TT comes equipped with a front suspension that is based on a McPherson system and a four-link rear. For a more dynamic drive, the company has given this car its new adaptive damper control system, Audi magnetic ride that can be adjusted to three settings (comfort, auto or dynamic) via Audi drive select. Each one will alter, among other things, steering input and throttle response, depending on the type of driving experience the user is after.
This third-generation TT will reach SA in the fourth quarter of the year. Audi SA is unable to confirm engines, specification or pricing at this time.
