2014 Audi TT preview
The Audi TT has long been one of the industrys star performers. With its blend of performance, efficiency and supreme build quality it continues to be a firm favourite on the market.
The new 2014 Audi TT was revealed at the 2014 Geneva Motor show and both experts and consumers were eager to find out how Audi would follow the old version with their new incarnation. The new TT is entirely new from top to bottom so there are far too many areas to cover in this article. However, heres what we think are the most important features of the new model.
Audi has kept the proportions of the new Audi TT relatively similar to the old version. Its almost exactly the same length, width and height. However the TTs wheels have been pushed apart by almost 4cm and by being close to the corners of the car it means shorter overhangs. Audi have also managed to lower the TTs curb weight by up to 50kg which is significant. When you step inside the car youll find that theres the same generous leg and head room youd find in the old car. Unfortunately, as with the old car, the space at the back is at a premium.
Its not only the handling that Audi has worked on. The styling of the TT is much more angular and tort unlike the softer curvaceous lines of the previous model. The font end, dominated by the famous Audi grille, looks more purposeful while the headlights now sit under the bonnet line giving it a razor sharp look that hints back at the 2010 Quattro concept.
All TTs get xenon headlights as standard though buyers can pay extra to get LED matrix lights which claims to be as close to daylights as youre actually going to get. The sliding indicators are another cool feature which can also be seen on the Audi R8. In fact, the technology within the headset is truly next generation. The LED segments in each headlight work together with sensors to help prevent the dazzling of oncoming car and cyclists keeping everyone on the roads that little bit safer.
The new Audi TT is the first model to have Audis new instrument cluster, named the Virtual Cockpit. This 12.3 inch screen replaces the traditional Speedo and Rev dials and houses everything from speed to navigation to infotainment instructions. This driver-centric panel has two modes. The “Classic” mode will simply display the more traditional components such as the Speedo and Rev. However, housed in-between the two sits Audis MMi system. The Multimedia mode will see the dials shrink and map or media info filling the majority of the screen. This makes it much easier to take in the information you need while 4G connectivity helps you to keep up to date with real time traffic data.
Were told three engines will be available from launch, which all boast decent performance. Even the diesel version can spring from 0-62mph in under 7 seconds. With Co2 under 110 per km (2.0 TDi 181bhp 280lb ft) it will be a very enticing proposition for company car buyers. However, if youre keen on a petrol engine then the performance orientated TTS model, which gets the twin-clutch and four wheel drive as standard, does the same distance in 4.7 seconds. Its important not to dismiss the lesser powered petrol engine as (2.0 TFSi) will give you a respectable 227bhp which is more than enough to put a smile on most peoples faces.
In conclusion, the new TT is lighter, sharper, faster, better equipped and a little more spacious than before. Its all these elements that will not disappoint 2nd generation TT owners and will remain as the benchmark for performance coupes.
