LA Auto Show: 2016 Audi TT Lineup: Comments

[William Maley]

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Let us go back in time to March of this year. It was at the Geneva Motor Show where Audi introduced the world to the third-generation TT Coupe and Cabriolet. Audi gave out information on what certain markets could expect with the TT, but the U.S. was left out. Well, Audi will be bringing over the 2016 TT Coupe and Cabriolet for its North America debut at the LA Auto Show next week.

Compared to the European-Spec Audi TT, the North American TT is slightly different in power and model variations. The base TT uses a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder with 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, down 10 horsepower and 14 pound-feet to the European model. The TTS packs 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque from its turbocharged 2.0L. Compared to the European model, the North-American version is down 18 horsepower. Those hoping to row their own gears will be disappointed. The North-America TT will only come with a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro all-wheel drive.

One other note: while European markets have a choice of either coupe or cabrio for the TT and TTS, North America will only get that choice for the TT. The TTS will only available in a coupe.

Audi says the 2016 TT line will go on sale in the second half of 2015.

Source: Audi

Press Release is on Page 2

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An icon returns: all-new Audi TT makes its U.S. debut at LA Auto Show

- 2016 Audi TT Roadster and TTS Coupe make U.S. debut at Los Angeles Auto Show- TT sets a new benchmark for in-vehicle technology with the virtual cockpit - a fully digital instrument cluster powered by the first automotive NVIDIA® Tegra® 30 processor integration

- Driver-oriented interiors, sports-car performance and leading technology solidify the TT model line as an icon

HERNDON, Va., November 13, 2014 – The quintessential design icon has become a next-generation driving machine. The 2016 Audi TT Roadster and TTS Coupe will make their U.S. debut at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show representing the all-new TT model line. Featuring an exciting new design characterized by the use of innovative technologies and driver-focused performance, the all-new Audi TT once again will make its stamp on Audi history.

“The original Audi TT set a new standard for automotive design with its quintessentially clean Bauhaus lines,” said Scott Keogh, President, Audi of America. “The all-new TT combines incredible technology, performance and design that epitomizes our brand and sets a new standard all its own.”

The Audi TT Coupe and Roadster will feature a 2.0L TFSI engine with 220 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque. The sporty Audi TTS Coupe will feature a turbo 2.0L TFSI engine with 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. All models feature quattro permanent all-wheel drive for exceptional dynamics, excellent traction and superb grip with the Audi drive select system standard. The Audi drive select system allows the driver to adjust the shift points, throttle response, steering and the standard magnetic ride suspension on TTS, by selecting between dynamic, auto, comfort and individual modes. The quattro system has specifically been tuned for the TT/TTS to continuously shift power to the wheels that grip and has a rear-wheel bias when the Audi drive select is in the dynamic mode. The unique quattro calibration utilizes sensors that measure wheel slippage every 10 milliseconds to adjust power. This gives the quattro system the ability to shift up to 100% of power to the rear or the front axle when needed. Audi has vigorously updated the electrohydraulic multi-plate clutch, which uses software tailored to the TT and the TTS. Its slim design, which eliminates the pressure accumulator used in the previous generation, reduces the unit’s weight by 3.3 lbs.

The TT will be available as coupe and roadster and the TTS will be available as a coupe only. All TT models are available with a six-speed dual clutch S tronic® transmission that provides smooth, quick shifts.

Iconic Technology

The Audi TT revolutionizes the way the driver interacts with the vehicle through the innovative virtual cockpit. An entirely digital instrument cluster, the virtual cockpit replaces traditional gauges and interfaces for a customizable driving experience. Unveiled at the Consumer Electronic Show earlier this year, the virtual cockpit combines the functions of a central MMI monitor with a conventional instrument cluster in one unique, 12.3-inch TFT display with superb 3D graphics and brilliant clarity.

For seamless processing speed, the quadcore Tegra 30 processor from the Tegra 3 series from NVIDIA is utilized. With a processing speed of over one gigahertz, the four-core chip can work together with a special 3D graphics program to perform more than eight billion computing operations per second. The graphics processor generates 60 frames per second, ensuring that the needles of the speedometer, rev counter and navigation are displayed with absolute precision. Google Earth™ maps appear across the entire virtual cockpit and resolve instantaneously when zooming in and out or when making menu selections.

The all-new Audi TT will also feature the most advanced version of Audi connect®, including picture navigation, read-aloud news headlines, Facebook® and Twitter® alerts, access to more than 7,000 Web radio stations, personalized RSS news feeds and more. Audi connect is powered by 4G LTE and includes an integrated Wi-Fi hotspot for passenger devices. A newly-designed MMI system streamlines the data entry process with an MMI Touch pad and MMI Navigation Plus with Bluetooth interface and voice control for compatible devices (not available on TT Roadster). The virtual cockpit is controlled by the multifunction steering wheel or via the MMI controls in the center console which includes the MMI touch pad integrated into the MMI rotary dial.

Iconic Design

The third-generation Audi TT features the unmistakable profile of the iconic first-generation TT, with short overhangs, broad wheel arches and a lean a muscular stance. Standard full LED headlamps exude modern sports car appeal, with a broader and flatter Singleframe® grille, sharp contours across the hood, round exhaust tailpipes and rear spoiler. As with all Audi S models, the TTS receives additional differentiation that includes unique front splitter/diffuser, quad exhaust tips and alu optic mirrors as well as standard S model specific sport seats on the interior to mention a few. The S model design elements paired with the powerful engine and the standard magnetic ride suspension make the TTS a true performance car for everyday use. The all-new TT front end and floor assembly are made of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel components, while the superstructure comprises aluminum castings, extruded sections and panels. The luggage compartment of the coupe models has a capacity of 10.8 cubic feet with the rear seatbacks up. Folding down the split rear seats increases the cargo capacity to a highly functional 25.1 cubic feet.

New HVAC controls eliminate the need for a conventional dash console and integrate fan speed, air vent selection and temperature directly into the center of the three central vents further underlining the clean, uncluttered design of the interior. Controls for the available heated seat controls are also integrated in the air vents further eliminating buttons and switches from the interior. An available Bang & Olufsen Sound System with 680 watts features 5.1 Surround Sound, a 14-channel amplifier and 12 loudspeakers provides a stunning sonic experience. LED accent lighting surrounding the front door mounted speakers add to the interior ambiance.

The TT and TTS will arrive on US shores during the second half of 2015 as 2016 model year vehicles. Pricing and equipment will be announced closer to on sale date.

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