Audi designers have risen to the challenge of enhancing the much-loved Audi TT for the 2011 model year, creating a new generation that combines styling refinements with enhanced efficiency technology. These advancements include a newly adopted 2.0-litre TFSI engine, which improves fuel economy by up to 14 per cent.
The upgraded 2.0 TFSI 211PS petrol engine is the technological highlight in the latest range, employing new Audi technology to improve power, torque and overall efficiency compared with the 200PS version it replaces. It enables the TT to achieve 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds – 0.5 seconds quicker than its predecessor - and raises its top speed from 149mph to 152mph. Even more impressively, it boosts economy potential from 36.7mpg in the combined cycle to 42.8mpg, and reduces CO2 emissions from 183g/km to 154g/km.
New energy recuperation
The gains made possible by this new Audi Valvelift system are complimented by a recuperation system which recovers energy during braking and coasting. A ground breaker in the sports car sector, the TT 2.0 TDI continues to set the efficiency standard, achieving up to 53.3mpg in the combined cycle test and only emits 139 grams of CO2/km. With 170PS and 350 Nm of torque, the high-tech common rail injection engine powers the TT from 0-62mph in 7.5 seconds and on to 140mph. The 2.0 TDI is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox and comes with quattro all-wheel drive as standard, allowing the driver to fully utilise the high-torque output of the engine.
The renowned S tronic dual clutch transmission is also available as an option for the new 2.0 TFSI. This transmission switches between its six gears with virtually no interruption to the supply of power to the wheels, either fully automatically or manually. Manual shifts can be made using the optional paddles on the steering wheel, or by the re-designed gearknob.
New Sport button
Another new development that will please sporting drivers can also be incorporated at extra cost in conjunction with Audi magnetic ride. The Sport button, which has been a standard feature of the TT RS since launch and now becomes available as an option for all other models, allows the driver to alter the throttle pedal response (in manual versions), the weight of the steering and the engine note.
Subtle enhancements inside and out
Combining aluminium and steel content in a 58% to 42% ratio that favours optimal weight distribution, the ‘standard’ version of the lightweight TT body now displays a more striking front bumper design with deeper air intakes based on the look that was previously reserved for S line versions. New alloy wheel designs are available to compliment the new look and a rear diffuser adopted from S line versions adds even more sporting emphasis. 2011 Model Year TT models will also be more distinct thanks to five new metallic and pearl effect paint options.
Audi TT S-line
S line models adopt an even sportier look than ever before through a new bumper and grille design which closely resembles the look of the TTS in its familiar current form and which is further enhanced by standard xenon headlamps with LED daytime running lights. Notable features also include deeper TTS-style side sills and a new platinum grey diffuser at the rear. The TTS now takes a more serious sporting stance with a new front bumper design featuring horizontal aluminium look double bars which also extend down to the fog light surrounds and a new look rear bumper.
Interior changes
Widely regarded as the benchmark for quality of finish, the interior features new aluminium trims for the steering wheel, the centre console and the door inserts. This, coupled with a new high gloss finish for switches, trims and air vents, mean that the interior now looks even more distinctive than previous models.
Specification levels
The specification range now been simplified. A ‘Standard’ trim level is now reserved solely for the TT Roadster 1.8 TFSI and at extra cost this can be upgraded to Sport or S line specification. All other versions of the Coupe and Roadster (excluding the TTS and TT RS) begin at Sport level and can be upgraded to S line.
Onboard computer with new efficiency program
Another key efficiency boosting measure can also be found in the cockpit, where a new efficiency program within the onboard computer displays all consumption-related data on the central display and gives the driver tips for efficient driving. A gear-change indicator also indicates the optimal gear for fuel-efficient driving, while another function provides information on which vehicle systems, such as the climate control system, are consuming energy and how that affects fuel consumption.
The Audi TTS and the Audi TT RS
The Audi TTS, both in Coupe and Roadster forms, combines outstanding performance with an equally high degree of comfort. It’s extensively modified 2.0 TFSI engine pumps out 272PS and 350 Nm of torque, accelerating the TTS Coupe with S-tronic gearbox from 0-62mph in 5.2 seconds and yet still achieves up to 36.7mpg. The dynamic spearhead of the TT model series is the TT RS, which is also available as a Coupe or a Roadster. It’s turbocharged 2.5-litre 5-cylinder engine creates an incredible 340PS and rockets the car from 0 to 62mph in only 4.6 seconds. A manual six-speed short-shift transmission currently channels power to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, but later in 2010 a newly developed version of the S tronic twin-clutch transmission will also be offered as an option. The compact layout of the new seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission makes it suitable for mounting sideways in the Audi TT and works in combination with the quattro all-wheel drive system.
Equipped with S-tronic, the TT RS Coupe will soon be able to launch from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds – even quicker than the manual transmission version.
Ordering
The new 2011 model year Audi TT will open for ordering later this month, with first customer deliveries taking place in July 2010.
Don’t want to wait?
We are expecting the waiting lists to rise once again and with limited stock available of 2010 models, you would be best to act quickly before they are all gone. Sadly the S-Line Special Editions, complete with a whole host of extras, including Titanium finish alloy wheels and Bluetooth, are being removed from ordering. We are lucky enough to have been able to source a few of the last remaining Special Editions and these offer a saving of over £1,000.
For more information, call 01202 775050 or email chris.ryu@oceanautomotive.co.uk
