Video: Audi TT RS at the Nurburgring

The highly anticipated Audi TT RS has been caught on tape by an amateur videographer on the famous Nurburgring race track in Germany. Slated to be released sometime in 2009, the RS will be the top of the line model in the TT range competing against rivals such as the BMW Z4 M Coupe and the Porsche Cayman S.

It has been said, but not officially confirmed, that the TT RS will make use of a turbocharged version of VW’s U.S. spec 2.5-litre five-cylinder petrol engine. Then again, we say, why should Audi go into all that trouble to transform an old engine into one that will have to comply with the strict European emission standards when it has already developed an all-new 3.0-liter supercharged V6 TFSi unit for the new S4 that could easily be pushed to deliver over 360Hp? -Video after the jump

Via: Autoblog.it

Audi TT Tuned by PPI

PPI Automotive Design is German based tuner that specializes on Audi models. Their latest tuning package called “PS” revolves around the new Audi TT featuring a series of upgrades to the body, the 2.0 TFSI engine, the suspension and the interior.

The company’s bodykit includes front and rear spoilers, side sills and carbon-fibre trim components for the door mirror housing and the tail panel fascias combined with black 19-inch alloys in Michelin Pilot Sport2 size 235/35 ZR19 tires. Inside, apart from the new sport steering wheel, PPI offers a variety of upgrades including special decorative trims and tailor-made leather upholsteries. –Continued

At the heart of PPI's tuning suite is the performance kit I for the TT’s base 2.0-liter Turbo FSI engine that’s boosts output to 245Hp at 5.100 rpm. and 366 Nm of torque between 1.800 and 5.000 rpm. PPI says that with the performance kit, the TT 2.0 TFSI sprints from zero to 100km/h (62 mph) in 6.3 seconds to 100 km/h, or 0,3 second faster than its production counterpart. The coupe’s top speed is electonicaly governed at 250 km/h or 155 mph.

Other improvements include the sport suspension that lowers the car's centre of gravity by 30 mm while a sports braking system with larger discs and multi-piston brake callipers is undergoing trials and it will be offered soon

Via: Motorpasion

Audi TT Clubsport Quattro: Pre-Production Model Revealed

This is Audi’s second iteration of the sporty TT Clubsport Quattro model that we first saw at last year’s Wörthersee Tour in Austria and from the looks of it, this is the actual model that will enter a small series production in the second half of the year. Just like the first TT Clubsport Quattro, this one too was unveiled at the Audi and VW enthusiast event “Wörthersee Tour” that takes place in Austria from May 21 to 25.

Compared to last year’s concept, the roofless TT Clubsport Quattro has obtained a bigger windshield with thicker A-pillars, production-like mirrors, a slightly redesigned rear-bumper that houses what looks to be a fog light and larger safety bars. Inside, Audi’s designers removed the aluminum trim from the steering wheel (for safety reasons) which now hosts stereo controls while they also replaced the pedals and the S-Tronic gearbox with production parts. -Continued

Other than that, there are no differences with last year’s prototype with the relatively extreme TT Clubsport Quattro featuring a supped up version of Audi’s 2.0 TFSI engine that breaks the 300 Hp barrier combined with the dual-clutch S-Tronic gearbox and a permanent all-wheel drive system.

The track was widened by 66 millimeters (2.60 inches) versus the production TT while stopping power is provided from the brake system from the new Audi TTS. Its ventilated discs measure 340 millimeters (13.39 inches) up front and 310 millimeters (12.20 inches) at the rear.

Audi TTS Coming to the U.S. at the end of 2008

Audi announced that the most powerful and fastest version in the TT’s history, the TTS will be coming to U.S. dealer showrooms in late 2008. Unveiled at the Detroit Show in January, the TTS is offered in 2 + 2-seater Coupe and Roadster body styles. Both variants are powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that in the U.S. delivers 265 Hp and a peak torque of 258 lb-ft.

Equipped with Audi’s 6-speed twin clutch S-Tronic gearbox and quattro all-wheel-drive system, the TTS Coupe accelerates from nought to 60 mph (96 km/h) in 4.9 seconds and on to a governor-limited top speed of 155 mph.

According to the German carmaker, in the U.S., the TTS is positioned between the BMW Z4 3.0si and BMW Z4 M with key competitors also including the Mercedes-Benz SLK350, Porsche Cayman and Boxster. -Continued

While U.S. pricing will be announced at a later date, Audi revealed that the TTS’ standard features includes quattro permanent all-wheel drive, 6-speed twin-clutch S-Tronic gearbox, magnetic ride adaptive suspension system, 18-inch aluminum wheels, xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights, plus – on the Roadster – a fully automatic soft top including power wind deflector.

Inside, all TTS’ get a multifunctional leather sports steering wheel along with extended aluminum trim and heated sports seats with leather/Alcantara upholstery. An automatic air conditioning system and Isofix child seat mountings on the front passenger seat are also included

As for the list of optional extras, it includes two navigation systems, a Bose sound system, an iPod port, an LED interior lighting package, electrically adjustable seats, as well as the Audi adaptive light dynamic cornering light system.

See more pictures of the TTS here and a video here.

Audi TTS Official Safety Car for 2008 Tourist Trophy Motorcycle Races

The latest and most powerful Audi TT, the new 272Hp TTS Coupe has been chosen by organizers as the official safety car at the Tourist Trophy (TT) motorcycle races that runs on the Isle of Man, Britain from 24 May-6 June. Adrian Earnshaw, Minister for Tourism and Leisure, Isle of Man Government, commented: “It is a great opportunity to have Audi as our Official Car Partner especially considering the Audi TT sportscar is named after the TT motorsport event dating back over 100 years”. –One more pic after the jump

eBay: Audi R8 Lookalike for $45k

Our eBay find of the day concerns an Audi R8 “lookalike” based on the TT 3.2 V6 Coupe. For less than half the price of an original R8 -$109,000 in the US, the seller of this TT with a Caractere R8 Body kit is offering you the chance to buy a car that, in his own word’s, “everyone stops to ask if it’s an R8”. We don’t know about you, but that sounds like a total turn-off to us… -More pics after the jump

Link: eBay

Audi TT: New 1.4 TFSI 140 Hp Coming to Leipzig

Downsizing is the name, and VW Group is the one who’s playing the game. Following yesterday’s announcement on the TT 1.8TFSI, Audi revealed that it will introduce an even smaller engine for its sport model, the 1.4-liter TFSI unit that combines a supercharger and a turbocharger generating 140 Hp.

The 1.4 TFSI unit is already available in wide number of VW Group models including the Audi A3, VW Golf and SEAT Leon. The reason that Audi decided to fit the TT with this unit is partially due to the stricter European emission and fuel consumption rules, but most importantly to attract a wider audience as a lot European countries calculate vehicle taxes based on engine size so the new smaller engine will reduce owners registration fees without sacrificing much of the cars performance.

The TT 1.4TFSI will make its world debut at the Leipzig Auto Show in Germany this month alongside the TT 1.8TFSI. Euro-wide sales will follow shortly after.

New Audi TT with 160Hp 1.8 TFSI Engine

Along with the TTS (2.0-liter, 272 Hp) and the TT 2.0 TDi (2.0-liter turbo diesel, 170Hp) that were presented earlier this year, yet another newcomer has been added to Audi’s sports car family: the TT 1.8 TFSI that is equipped with the VW Group’s 1.8-liter turbocharged engine that has an output of 160 hp and reaches 250 Nm (184.39 lb-ft) of torque between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm.

Available in both coupe and roadster forms, the TT Coupe 1.8 TFSi sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.2 seconds while according to Audi, it features an average fuel consumption of just 6.7 liters per 100 km (35.11 mpg). The new basic version of the TT family will make its official debut at the Leipzig Auto Show in Germany in April, with sales in Europe following shortly after.

Official: Audi TT 2.0 TDI Coupe & Roadster with 170 HP Diesel Engine – 44.4 MPG!

Great news for all you diesel lovers today as Audi unveiled the all-new TT 2.0 TDI quattro that will be available in both coupe and roadster bodystyles. The TT’s 2.0-liter, 4-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine delivers 170 Hp at 4,200 rpm and 350 Nm (258.2 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Audi has combined the 2.0-liter diesel engine with a manual six-speed transmission.

According to Audi, the TT Coupe and TT Roadster quattro 2.0 TDI consume an average of 5.3 lt and 5.5 lt of diesel fuel per 100 km (44.4 mpg and 42.8 mpg) respectively. As for performance, Audi claims that the Coupe sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.5 sec and achieves a top speed of 226 km/h (140 mph). The Roadster, requires 7.6 sec for the standard sprint, and continues up to a top speed of 223 km/h (139 mph). Still having doubts about diesel-powered cars in the States? –Details and images after the jump

PRESS RELEASE:

The new Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro: owerful performance with maximum efficiency

Audi is once again setting standards, this time with the new Audi TT and its TDI engine—a model that combines pure sportiness and powerful performance with sensational efficiency. The Audi TT 2.0 TDI Coupe quattro and Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI quattro are the first series-production sports cars to feature diesel engines. It’s a compelling union: the two-liter engine generates dynamic propulsion with 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, yet the TT Coupe and TT Roadster consume an average of only 5.3 liters and 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 mpg and 42.77 mpg) respectively—unparalleled in the sports car segment.

Audi is setting the pace with this synthesis of excellent dynamism and low fuel consumption, as it has done for many years: Since debuting in 1989 the TDI engines from the brand with the four rings have been paving the way for the world’s most successful efficiency technology and acting as trendsetters for the entire automobile industry. Today, these powerful, refined and highly fuel-efficient engines represent a modern, smart take on sportiness. The run of victories achieved by the Audi R10 TDI diesel race car at the Le Mans 24 Hours and in the American Le Mans Series are impressive evidence of the tremendous potential of this technology.

The dynamic diesel engines from Audi exert an exciting impact not just in racing but also in series-production models—and now indeed in a sports car. The TT Coupe quattro with the 2.0 TDI sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The Audi TT Roadster, likewise equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, requires only an extra tenth of a second for the standard sprint, and continues up to a top speed of 223 km/h (138.57 mph). Both versions serve as outstanding examples of the success of the Audi efficiency strategy, thanks to their fuel efficiency ratings of 5.5 liters per 100 km (42.77 mpg), a figure that corresponds to CO2 emissions of only 145 grams/km.

Powerful, refined and efficient: The 2.0 TDI

The new four-cylinder TDI engine (engine displacement = 1,968 cc) represents a fresh take on the all-round compelling qualities of the TDI concept. Designers of the dual-camshaft, two-liter model looked to its predecessor—the most-produced diesel engine in the world—and expanded upon its major strengths: driving pleasure, efficiency and refinement.

The new common rail injection system is equipped with highly modern piezo injectors, whose eight-hole injection nozzles can perform up to five distinct injection sequences per cycle. This fine degree of modulation creates a modest pressure increase in the combustion chambers, resulting in a significantly reduced noise level. The system pressure of 1,800 bar allows fuel to form a fine dispersion, enabling precise, highly efficient combustion.

The turbocharger is also part of a new generation and operates with adjustable vanes that allow torque to build up rapidly. The positions of swirl flaps on the intake manifold are controlled by electric motors in order to adapt the flow of air to the current load and engine speed. The geometry of the engine’s pistons has been modified, and the acoustics of the camshaft drive belt have been overhauled. Just as they did in the preceding model, two balancing shafts reduce the vibrations arising in the crankshaft drive.

The cumulative result of this progress is a high maximum engine speed of 5,000 rpm and, most importantly, improved thermodynamics in the combustion chambers. What this means is that the engine can run on up to 60 percent recycled exhaust that has been thoroughly cooled by the radiator. This results in a drastic reduction in untreated NOx emissions, with the 2.0 TDI already meeting the threshold values of the upcoming Euro 5 standard.

Dynamic road performance

The 2.0 TDI in the Audi TT Coupe and the Audi TT Roadster delivers 125 kW (170 hp) at 4,200 rpm and sends a full 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft at engine speeds between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Operating quietly and generating little in the way of vibration, this model delivers a hefty amount of power at the lowest rpm levels and is highly responsive to input from the gas pedal. Its supreme power development lends this engine its own unique, fascinating character—that of a muscular, smart sports engine.

The Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDI quattro easily leaves the gasoline-powered competition behind when accelerating from a standstill. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 7.5 seconds and never looks back until it reaches 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The TT Roadster accelerates to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.7 seconds and keeps going up to 223 km/h (138.57 mph).

These models—the world’s first diesel sports cars—consume an average of only 5.3 liters and 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 mpg and 42.77 mpg) respectively, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of a mere 140 g/km and 145 g/km. In so doing, they are setting a benchmark that represents a veritable quantum leap in the sports car segment. With the TDI engine in the TT series, Audi once again establishes its leading role on the diesel market. The brand with the four rings is advancing progress and starting at the top.

In keeping with the theme of sporty performance, Audi has combined its two diesel-engine sports cars with highly effective manual six-speed transmissions whose short lever travel allows the driver to shift quickly, easily and precisely. The housings for these transmissions are made of lightweight, high-tech magnesium materials. Relatively long final transmission ratios have been employed to bring the drivetrain in line with the character of the TDI engine.

In light of their high torque values, Audi is equipping both of its new TT models with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The heart of this system is an electronically controlled, hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch, which is located in the rear of the vehicle for improved weight distribution. This clutch generally distributes up to 85 percent of the engine power to the front axle and 15 percent to the rear axle; in extreme situations it can divert up to 100 percent of the power to either axle.

The overall concept: An exercise in uncompromised sportiness

Consistent efforts to reduce vehicle weight are also part of the efficiency strategy pursued by the brand with the four rings. Both sports cars are very lightweight: the 2 + 2-seater TT Coupe weighs only about 1,370 kilograms (3020.33 lbs) when empty, while the two-seater TT Roadster with soft top weighs roughly 1,415 kilograms (3119.54 lbs). Underlying these low weights is an innovative hybrid body construction developed by Audi. Front components are made of aluminum and utilize Space Frame technology; rear components are made of steel. This solution guarantees that the frame is as rigid as possible and optimizes load distribution between the axles.

The Audi TT Coupe and TT Roadster are dynamic, emotion-packed sports cars. As was the case with preceding models, these cars are impressive for their powerful design, whose dynamic flow continues on into the interior. The cockpit contains multiple nods to the circle motif, and the sports steering wheel with its flat-bottomed rim fits the driver’s hand like a glove. The sport seats are deep-set, providing a sporty seated position and firm lateral support. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the TT Coupe, making the trunk space grow from 290 to 700 cubic liters (10.24 – 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster (250 liters, 8.83 cubic ft) comes with a practical load-through hatch upon request.

The sports suspension likewise offers extraordinarily dynamic features. The front suspension is pivoted on an aluminum subframe and has a wide track measuring 1,572 millimeters (61.89 inches).

A highly precise rack-and-pinion steering system with a direct steering ratio provides an intimate link between the driver and the road. Power steering with servo assist, which decreases as speed increases, is generated by an electromechanical drive that is even more efficient than a hydraulic pump.

The coil springs and shock absorbers in the four-link rear axle are situated in separate areas. The links are also finely differentiated: The layout of the trailing links, which absorb the propulsive and braking forces, is relatively soft to promote a comfortable ride. The connections to the three transverse links per wheel, on the other hand, are rigid in order to direct transverse forces into the body with precision.

The Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDI quattro and Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI quattro roll on 16-inch, cast aluminum wheels fitted with 255/55 R16 tires. Behind the wheels are large disk brakes with pads that develop large coefficients of friction. The ESP stabilization program supports the neutral to slight understeering feel of the TT—the finishing touch on an overall portrait of exciting dynamics, exhilarating driving pleasure and stability you can count on.

Audi magnetic ride, a high-tech shock-absorber system available as an option, is an adaptive system that resolves the traditional conflict of interests between comfort and handling. A magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers changes the direction of the magnetic particles within milliseconds when electricity is applied; this alters the overall characteristics of the fluid and, in turn, modifies the damping characteristic. The driver can choose between “Normal” and “Sport” programs by flipping a switch.

Equipment makes a statement of refined style

Standard equipment for both of the new TT models reflects the sporty character and refined style of the series. Faux aluminum accents add a shine to gray inlays and various other components in the interior. The sports steering wheel comes with a Nappa leather cover. The climate control system (standard for the TT Coupe) regulates heating and ventilation in response to the level of sunlight. The driver information system and chorus audio system round out the standard equipment.

A wide array of high-tech equipment is available as options, including a highly modern generation of audio devices, electrically adjustable front seats, the adaptive light dynamic cornering light system and two navigation systems with a user interface based on the Audi MMI concept—a cut above the competition.

Audi Announces UK Pricing for TTS Coupe & Roadster

The first Audi TT to sport the ‘S’ insignia is now available to order in Coupe and Roadster forms in the UK market with prices set at £33,380 and £35,380 respectively. Equipped with a 272 HP 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the TTS comes with either a standard six-speed manual gearbox or optionally at £1,400, the Audi S tronic twin-clutch transmission. The TTS will reach its first UK customers in the summer of 2008. For details and high-res pictures of the TTS, click here.

Video: Audi TTS Coupe & Roadster 272HP

The first-ever “S” model in the TT’s 10-year-long history (two generations) is equipped with a modified version of the of the 2.0-litre Turbo FSI petrol engine delivering 272PS and peak torque of 350Nm between 2,500 and 5,000rpm. Offered in both Coupe and Roadster variants, the TTS Coupe with the standard 6-speed manual gearbox (DSG offered optionally) sprints from nought to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 5.6 seconds while its top speed is electronically limited at 250 km/h or 155mph. -Click here for details and pics, follow the jump for the Video

Audi TTS Update: Official Image Gallery & Details Released

Since there was no point in hiding the all-new TTS Coupe & Roadtser models after a set of pictures where leaked into the net earlier this week, the Germans decided to release all details, prior to the car’s Detroit Show debut on Sunday, Jan. 13. The first ever “S” version of the TT is powered by a 272 HP 2.0-litre turbo engine matted to a 6-speed manual gearbox. Optionally, the TTS is also offered with the S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission. With the manual tranny, the all-wheel-drive TTS sprints from zero to 62mph (100 km/h) in 5.2 sec (S-Tronic: 5,0 sec) while its top speed is electronically limited at 155mph (250 km/h).

Design-wise and apart from the ‘S’ insignia, TTS’ highlights include LED strip daytime running lights, a redesigned front apron with larger air intakes, aluminium-look door mirror housings, deeper side skirts, revised rear bumper that incorporates four tailpipes and new 18-inch alloy wheels. Inside, the TTS models get Alcantara and leather combination sports seats, exclusive ‘S’ instruments with white needles, metal pedals and special aluminium trim elements. -Press release and high-res image gallery after the jump

PRESS RELEASE:

HIGH PERFORMANCE AUDI TTS DEBUTS IN DETROIT

• New even higher performance version of acclaimed TT sports car available in Coupé and Roadster body styles
• Debuts at the North American International Auto Show on January 13 and is expected to open for UK order in mid-2008
• Powered by an extensively modified version of the 2.0-litre Turbo FSI petrol engine delivering 272PS and peak torque of 350Nm between 2,500 and 5,000rpm
• Coupé (manual) 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds, limited 155mph top speed, 29.7mpg, Roadster 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds, limited 155mph top speed, 29.3mpg
• Suspension, steering and brakes revised to complement enhanced performance
• Standard Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system for optimum handling composure

The ‘S’ emblem that spells extraordinary performance in the Audi range graces the TT for the first time this month in a new, even more focused version of the iconic sports car debuting at the North American International Auto Show (January 19-27). Destined for the UK in mid-2008 in both Coupé and Roadster body styles, the TTS earns its esteemed badge through the adoption of a specially developed, 272PS Turbo FSI petrol engine complemented by state-of-the-art chassis technology.

Extensive revisions to the acclaimed 2.0-litre turbo charged and directly fuel injected petrol engine that already powers the TT have enabled its power to be boosted from 200PS to 272PS and its torque from 280Nm to 350Nm, available between 2,500 and 5,000rpm. Linked to six-speed, close ratio manual transmission the enhanced unit slingshots the TTS Coupé from rest to 62mph in just 5.2 seconds, and on the Autobahn is only curtailed by its electronic limiter at 155mph. With the optional S tronic dual-clutch automatic transmission acceleration times are reduced by a further two-tenths of a second in both the Coupé and Roadster.

In addition to the evocative ‘S’ insignia, the most extreme production TT to date highlights its capabilities from the front through newly designed bi-xenon headlamps incorporating trademark Audi LED strip daytime running lights, a redesigned front apron incorporating larger air intakes and aluminium-look door mirror housings. The profile view is enhanced by deeper side skirts and exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, which can be swapped for 19-inch alternatives at extra cost, while at the rear a revised rear bumper with - for the first time in a TT – four tailpipes protruding from its extended diffuser subtly conveys the newcomer’s extra performance potential.

Inside, deep-set Alcantara and leather combination sports seats, exclusive ‘S’ instruments with white needles, metal pedals and special aluminium trim elements enhance the already very highly regarded sports interior.

Audi Space Frame (ASF)
Streamlined by its revolutionary lightweight Audi Space Frame aluminium and steel hybrid body shell, and pinned to the road by a comprehensively modified, quattro four-wheel-drive-equipped chassis, the new TTS has been designed to maximise the TT’s inherent fun factor while retaining its safe, surefooted feel. Reworked power steering and enlarged brakes help the driver to profit fully from the exceptional performance, and to guarantee the highest degree of agility in all situations the space-age Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system is fitted as standard.

The magnetic ride system’s sophisticated dampers are filled with a magnetorheological fluid containing minute magnetic particles that can be influenced by an electromagnetic field. By applying a voltage to the system’s electromagnets, the viscosity of the fluid is altered by the affected magnetic particles, increasing resistance to damper movement to iron out pitch and roll when necessary, and reducing resistance when ride comfort takes precedence.

The new sports model is not only notable as the first TT to become a member of the esteemed Audi ‘S quattro series’, which numbers extra special models such as the 450PS S8 quattro among its ranks. Significantly, it also debuts on the tenth anniversary of the TT, the Coupé version of which became an overnight sensation following its launch in 1998.