Mar 31, 2012

Audi TTS Roadster road test



The first-generation TT was amazed by its compact and innovative. Even the Coupe and Roadster second generation have become true icons of design as the numerous awards received. With a powerful body and broad shoulders both sport compact will have a line with strong and muscular, and their appearance is now even more expressive. The sheets, occupying two thirds of the car, you require with grit on the road, the wheel arches accommodate large wheels in new design. The alternation of concave and convex surfaces give the TT looks like a sculpture powerful and athletic bent forward. The "Tornado Line" of the body below the shoulders and the rising dynamic line above the sill to the body give the body a slender figure. Above the right rear wheel is the characteristic fold of the aluminum tank. The TT has acquired an even more dynamic face. At the front stands out above the bumper that wraps around the enlarged air intakes, drawing pronounced edges, front fog lights are set in chrome rings. It is part and parcel of the new look also single-frame radiator grille in black.

The slightly slanted headlights and smooth lines give the TT a determined look. The wing-shaped elements in them (the so-called "wings") accentuate the three-dimensional character. The optional xenon plus headlights have been redesigned with twelve white LEDs in a straight line on the bottom that lights up the daytime. On request, Audi also offers adaptive headlights "adaptive light" dynamic cornering lights and automatic control of the beam that can go from low beam to high beam.

On the back of the TT cylindrical reflectors appear to float inside of the lights and accentuate its depth. Also characteristic of the large tailpipes, double the 2.0 TFSI, and the speaker plus, matte black. The spoiler, discretely integrated in the profile of the tailgate, to 120 km / h and falls out automatically at speeds below 80 km / h. The driver also can activate it by pressing a button.

Detail makes for an optimum air flow coefficient of drag (Cd) of the Audi TT Coupe is just 0.30 (Roadster: 0.32). Thanks to encapsulation of the engine and to the aluminum structure of the bodywork the underbody is nearly smooth and this improves the flow of air. Both versions are now longer than 9 mm, measuring 4,187 mm. Unchanged but the width (1,842 mm) and height (1,352 mm for the Coupé and 1357 mm for the Roadster). The wheelbase of 2,468 mm. In the range of paints available for the TT series appear for the first time four new metallic colors: Scuba Blue, Oolong gray, red and gray volcanic Dakota. Shades are also already known: brilliant black, white ibis, orange, silver ice metallic, silver metallic and black, pearl Sahara. In combination with the S line sports package are available, also the colors Misano Red Pearl and Daytona Gray Pearl. The S line exterior package proposed design changes for the front bumper, air intakes, single-frame grill and sills. The splitter of the front spoiler and the diffuser insert with its rhomboid are painted in platinum gray, the tailpipes are chrome and front wings carry the S line logo.

The body
The body of the TT is made ​​in Ingolstadt in ASF technology with an innovative hybrid structure of aluminum and steel. ASF stands for Audi Space Frame: aluminum is the innovative technology that the brand has developed in the early 90s. Final assembly of the TT is made ​​in plants Györ (Hungary), where the body, for a production cycle attentive to the preservation of resources, are shipped by rail. The body structure of the TT is made ​​up of extruded and cast aluminum components, in this structure are inserted dynamically coupled with several sheets of aluminum bearing function. The individual components have significantly different shapes and sections, and, as the bones in the human skeleton, combining the best features at the lowest possible weight. With this hybrid structure, Audi once again imposes new standards. The front, floor and bodywork are aluminum of the TT, the doors and tailgate instead of deep-drawn steel. The rear part of the group floor, the rear end and the partition wall of the Roadster are high-strength steel. This combination of materials ensures a balanced distribution of weight on the axles and, consequently, a very dynamic handling.

Up to 90 kg less: the inversion of the spiral of the weight
Aluminium is the predominant material: in the coupé determines 68% of the total weight, 58% in the Roadster. The compact body weighs 206 kg, divided into 140 kg of aluminum and 66 kg of steel, but the Roadster weighs 251 kg. A structure of steel alone would be heavier than 45%, ie nearly 100 kg. Compared to the first generation with the body in sheet steel, the empty weight of the TT, depending on the version, has decreased from 20 kg to 90 kg: Audi has achieved the reversal of the spiral of weight.

The percentage of aluminum of the Coupé is constituted, in particular, from 63 kg of sheet metal, 45 kg of die-cast components and 32 kg of extruded sections. The die-cast components are primarily used in areas subjected to greater stress and those that require large multi-functionality. A joint member at the front pillar, for example, connecting longitudinal members, sills, cross member of the windscreen and front pillar with a geometry of absolute precision and a perfect use of space. The extruded sections have their strengths in creative flexibility. The sills of the Coupe and Roadster are visually identical but internally they have very different ribs that determine the rigidity of the car (even more than in the Roadster Coupe). The profiles of the TT are made ​​of ultra-modern alloys developed by Audi, which further increases the rigidity and so further reduce the weight. The weight of the body is a key factor for a high driving dynamics and outstanding efficiency. The TT 1.8 TFSI weighs only 1,240 kg, some 100 kg lighter than its main competitors. The ASF technology proves ideal for a sports car also under any other point of view. Compared to first generation TT of the static torsional rigidity is increased in the coupé of about 50% and, in the Roadster, as much as 100%. Just this rigidity is the prerequisite for dynamic handling and accurate and, at the same time, to a high vibrational comfort on board.

Also with regard to safety in case of impact, the TT makes no compromises. The longitudinal members in the front of the car are composed of extruded sections and die-cast components are resistant to high stresses in the transition zone between the front of the vehicle and the passenger compartment. At the rear the passenger cell is protected from media of large dimensions. In a side impact, high-strength aluminum profiles in the doors reject the other vehicle involved in the impact, extruded transverse reinforce the floor pan. A rack of very sturdy roof provides protection in case of rollover, in addition, the Roadster is equipped with high-strength tubes integrated in the frame of the windscreen and two roll bars.


Interior
The internal dynamics of the external line characterizes the interior of the TT. The dashboard is designed to measure the driver's center console angled slightly towards him. The gear lever short, round air vents and knobs of the automatic climate control (standard on the 2.0 TFSI) follow in the tradition TT design.

The equipment is covered by a domed lid that, on request, can be upholstered in leather. TT is also typical of the scales of speedometer and tachometer instruments embedded in cylindrical, integrated by a digital speed indicator in the display of the information system for the driver. At power of the framework the hands rise quickly and then return to its initial position. As always with Audi, the ergonomics are perfect and careful processing.

The leather sports steering wheel, three spokes, adjustable horizontally and vertically, makes this a perfect grip. The crown very sturdy, covered in fine leather, is flattened at the bottom. As an option, a multifunction sports steering wheel is also available with practical controls for the radio and the telephone versions of the TT with S tronic is equipped with two rockers. sports seats for driver and front passenger seating position ensures a very low, a good comfort and firm lateral support. At the request include a four-position lumbar support, electric seat adjustment and heated seats. Quattro GmbH offers its program in Audi Exclusive bucket seats manually adjustable, upholstered in black Fine Nappa leather. A series of exclusive details gives the interior even more elegant. The steering wheel, center console and door panels are embellished with applications in aluminum look, rings, frames and edges are shiny black in color, for example in the vents. The molding on the door of the glove box is now gray brushed aluminum.

In addition to traditional black, brown Madras, magma red and beige Luxor offers three new interior colors: brown hazelnut, titanium gray and garnet red. A treatment for impregnating leather upholstery makes the coatings do not become heated above 20 ° C when the TT is the sun and is available for both the Coupe and Roadster. For the engines of the coatings are based, serial, fabric, and the 2.0 TFSI offers a combination leather / Alcantara with heated seats. To customize the car, the Audi offers different grades of leather: Valletta, tassel end, the combination leather / Alcantara and Impuls. The Impuls coatings, available in black or brown Madras, have thick seams, in sharp contrast. In similar form, the first generation TT Roadster, have become a real trademark.

For individualists:
Styling ideas unique colors and inserts offer numerous possibilities for customization. There are three leather packages, one with specific details of color, and an application package, which includes gray aluminum decorative inserts in center console cover and stainless steel pedals. To characterize the S line sports package is instead the color black dominates the interior. Door sill trims bearing the logo S line sports seats of the coating has gray stitching. The steering wheel, gear lever (manual gearbox with ratios close spacing) and the mats are characterized by fine detail. Numerous control elements, from the pedals to switch lights up the steering wheel spokes, are enhanced by applications in aluminum look. Alloy wheels 18 "and lowered by 10 mm make the handling even more dynamic.

Inside the TT are provided as two storage compartments in the doors and two cup holders. Upon request, a package that includes several storage compartments and bins networks. For more sports, the Roadster is also a load-through hatch with removable ski bag in the partition. The TT Coupe and TT Roadster sports cars are also very practical for everyday use. The rear seats of the coupé, 2 +2 seats can be folded separately, a solution designed to increase the luggage capacity in the long lid from 290 to 700 liters. A roof open or closed the Roadster offers a luggage compartment of 250 liters. These values ​​apply to both the front-wheel drive versions as well as for those with four-wheel drive.

The engines
For the TT Coupé and TT Roadster, Audi has three four-cylinder engines, turbocharging and direct injection. The two TFSI petrol and TDI are accumunati of sports performance, exemplary fuel efficiency and decreased up to 14%. The three engines are equipped with a recovery system capable of exploiting the energy produced during deceleration or braking and store it in the battery. TFSI engines A new range of engines is represented by the TT 2.0 TFSI 211 hp (155 kW) which takes the place of the 2.0 TFSI 200 hp (147 kW) and 3.2-liter V6. The turbocharged four-cylinder, for which the system "Audi valvelift system" (AVS) varies the lift of the exhaust valve, a torque of 350 Nm between 1,600 and 4,200 rpm. The two liters, this coupe with manual transmission in 6.1 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h and then it touches the top speed of 245 km / h. On request are available for both the six-speed S tronic and quattro permanent four. With this allocation sprint from 0 to 100 km / h in just 5.6 seconds.

In the NEDC the TT 2.0 TFSI with manual transmission consumes just 6.6 liters of fuel per 100 km. CO2 emissions are equal to 154 g / km. Compared to the previous model, which since 2005 has been repeatedly awarded the title of "Engine of the Year" awarded by a jury of international journalists, the improvement is 1.1 liters per 100 kilometers, or 14%.

The direct fuel injection developed by Audi is combined with turbocharging as a fuel evaporation, subjected to strong turbulence, cools the combustion chambers. This allows to obtain a compression equal to 9,6:1, a ratio which ensures a high efficiency. The common rail injection pressure in the plant is around 150 bar, the injectors with six holes with precision distribute the fuel in the combustion chamber. At cylinder filling provides a water-cooled turbocharger, optimized turbine wheel improves the response to lower rpm. Even the intercooler ensures a high efficiency with low weight and compact size. A valve in the intake system generates turbulence to ensure the homogeneous formation of the mixture of high quality.

The 2.0 TFSI, which belongs to the Audi 888 series, is the quintessential example of the philosophy of downsizing, which compensates for the reduction of the displacement with supercharging. The base of the long-stroke engine of 1,984 cm3 is made of cast iron with excellent acoustic insulation properties and weighs only 33 kg. The rigid base structure helps to eliminate noise and vibration. Two balancer shafts compensate the forces opposed rotation of second order. The toothed chain for balancer shafts has been optimized in terms of silent operation. A second chain sprocket that drives the oil pump, with flow and pressure at two levels, saves about 0.2 liters of fuel per 100 km. A third toothed chain drives the two camshafts; the camshaft is adjustable suction of 60 ° in an extremely rapid.

"Audi valvelift system": reduced losses of unburnt gases
The system "Audi valvelift system" increases the yield, the torque and the efficiency by adjusting on two levels, depending on the load and the number of revolutions, the lift of the exhaust valves . Thus reduces the loss of unburnt gases in the combustion chamber and causes the influx of exhaust in the turbocharger is optimal. The cam structure with so-called elements, bushings for electromagnetic slip on the camshaft, is compact and lightweight. In addition to the new 2.0 TFSI engine range also features the TT, the 1.8 TFSI. Derived from the series 888 and with a displacement of 1,798 cm3, four-cylinder engine delivers an output of 160 hp (118 kW) and torque of 250 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm, propelling the Coupe in 7.2 seconds to 100 km / h and then it reaches a maximum speed of 226 km / h. On average, consumes just 6.4 liters of fuel per 100 km, with CO2 emissions to 149 g / km and a saving of 0.3 liters per 100 km. The TT 1.8 TFSI is available with manual transmission and front wheel drive. The 2.0 TDI Superb performance, extraordinary and exemplary smooth running efficiency: the Audi TT and TT Roadster are fitted with a diesel engine with high efficiency. The 2.0 TDI 170 hp (125 kW) is now presented in a brand new version, heavily reworked. The TT Coupe, the two-liter four-cylinder consumes just 5.3 liters of fuel per 100 km compared with CO2 emissions of 139 g / km. With 170 hp (125 kW) and torque of 350 Nm available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, could reach 100 km / h in 7.5 seconds and reaches a top speed of 226 km / h. The two-liter TDI is mated to a manual gearbox and quattro drive.

The turbocharger operates with adjustable vanes for a spontaneous delivery of torque. The suction pipe is made of lightweight plastic material. The suction channels, the valves of turbulence and the recesses in the pistons create a swirling motion targeted inlet air. All these measures made it possible to obtain excellent thermodynamics in the combustion chambers. This allows the four-cylinder TDI to take advantage of a high percentage of exhaust gas recovered. A compact radiator strongly reduces its temperature and the cooler combustion greatly reduces raw emissions of oxides of nitrogen.

The long-stroke diesel engine with a displacement of 1,968 cm3 has reduced the weight of 4 kg to 154 kg carrying. The greatest reduction was obtained in the alloy cylinder head. The toothed belt of the two camshafts and auxiliaries have been lightened thereby reducing noise and friction. The water pump requires less energy, the oil pump is equipped with flow control and the motor shaft sealing rings have been optimized. The injection system common rail generates a pressure up to 1,800 bar, the fuel is sprayed with a jet extremely precise through the nozzles to eight holes and the injectors have a combined maximum of six single injections for each work cycle. Two balancer shafts compensate the second order forces.

Transmission
The transmission of motive power is entrusted as standard on all engines in the TT, with a manual six-speed and very precise spacing of close relationships. Thanks to the three-shaft layout change is of minimum size and the box is ultra-light magnesium. For the new 2.0 TFSI, Audi provides, on request, the S tronic dual-clutch gearbox with six speeds, able to move from one gear to another without receiving any interruption of power flow. The six-speed S tronic is extremely fast and comfortable and can be managed, depending on the needs of the driver, fully automatic or manual mode with paddles on the steering wheel (optional). Also available are two automatic operating modes: N (normal) and S (sport). The start program "launch control" system delivers maximum propulsion when starting.

As with all dual-clutch gearboxes, a six-speed S tronic consists of two partial changes. The gears are located on two shafts side by side and are driven by two multi-plate clutches. Via a solid shaft, the clutch large transfers torque to the gears of the odd gears (first, third and fifth) and the reverse. Around the shaft rotates a full hollow shaft connected to the second clutch, smaller, which is accommodated within the largest clutch and which drives the gears of the group of gear ratios (second, fourth and sixth).

The gear shift is performed by alternating clutches. An example: when the TT accelerates in third gear, the second clutch is open. The electro-hydraulic power pre-grafted already the pair of gears of the fourth. The gear shifts take place with the opening of the first clutch and closing of the second clutch. Each gear is connected to a conventional synchronizer: this driver can also switch directly, for example, from sixth to fourth. permanent four-wheel drive addition to the double-clutch gearbox, permanent four-wheel drive is another distinctive feature high TT-tech. It is also available with the 2.0 TFSI quattro (only with S tronic); the 2.0 TDI, however, is always given in combination with quattro drive. The multi-plate clutch, electronically controlled and hydraulically actuated, the drive shaft is disposed at the upstream of the rear differential, a mounting location that further improves weight distribution on axles. In breaking down the basic moves most of the torque at the front. The control unit constantly analyzes driving conditions using a multiplicity of data. If the wheels of an axle lose grip, varies the distribution of forces.

Inside the clutch housing a package of lamellae in an oil bath that can be compacted by means of hydraulic pressure. If the pressure increases, more torque to the rear axle is driven, in extreme cases almost 100%. To quickly generate the hydraulic pressure that can be anything up to 30 bar, it takes an electric pump and an accumulator.

The Chassis
The TT Coupe and TT Roadster are genuine sports cars from compact size, even in the running characteristics. Steer with precision and spontaneity, all types of traverse curves at high speed and reduced reactions of the body. The handling is precise, stable and secure, the attainment of the maximum limit is indicated by a slight understeer. For the Audi front suspension uses McPherson structure with triangulated lower arms. The swinging supports, the subframe and the wishbones are made ​​of lightweight aluminum. The support, screwed to the body, ensures high rigidity of the front part of the car.

The steering rack is equipped with electromechanical power steering that is adjusted in function of speed. It has a specific reactivity, rigid and direct, that combines quality with low sensitivity to impulses from the road. Not absorb energy in a straight line, is also very efficient. The transmission ratio of 16,9:1 is sporty and direct. The four-link rear axle, is used for both versions with four wheel drive, can absorb longitudinal and lateral forces separately. The longitudinal arms absorb the forces of the engine and the brakes; the calibration of relatively soft supports will ensure a good ride comfort.

The three transverse links for each wheel (the arm of the spring, the arm and the upper transverse bar of convergence) are connected rigidly to the axle support with precision so as to transmit the transverse forces to the bodywork. All the arms are made of high strength steel. The compact coil springs and shock absorbers mounted separately and deal to absorb the vertical forces. It was also devised a new program with 14 different circles. All three engines are fitted as standard alloy wheels 17 "in size 8.5 Jx17 with tires 245/45.

For winter wheels are available in three lengths from 16 "to 18", for the summer the offer extends to the size 9Jx19 with tires 255/35. Particularly attractive are the large circles in seven twin-spoke design and titanium look gray. Thanks to the framework of the sides of the tires have many features designed to cope with emergency situations. On request, Audi offers an intelligent monitoring of tires, which recognizes exactly which wheel loses pressure. The braking system has been designed specifically to meet the needs of a sports car. For all engine front brake discs are ventilated and have a diameter of 312 mm, while the solid rear discs have a diameter of 286 mm. The 2.0 TFSI is the diameter of 340 mm front discs and 310 mm rear. The brake calipers are available on request, in dark gray. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) is calibrated to a dynamic driving style and balanced interventions.

Bumper high-tech: "Audi magnetic ride"
is available on request for all engine system electronically controlled damping "Audi magnetic ride" that resolves the classic conflict between comfort and driving dynamics, if necessary by changing the damping in 'span of a few milliseconds. In the damper piston circulates a synthetic hydrocarbon that contains magnetic particles of microscopic size from three to ten micrometers. Applying voltage to a coil generates a magnetic field, within which changes the orientation of the particles: these are arranged transversely to the direction of oil flow and prevent, therefore, that converge in the channels of the pistons. The unit, which obtains information from a complex system of sensors, constantly analyzing the situation of the road and driving style. With one button you can choose between the normal position and the Sport mode, the two modes are now clearly differentiated. In normal mode, with a low viscosity oil, the TT is very comfortable, this condition is ideal for long trips or uneven roads. In sport mode, however, that when the oil viscosity is high, the car shows a highly dynamic, maintaining a more direct contact with the road. Further improves steering response, thus suppressing rolling movements. Support for targeting individual wheel in cornering at high speed makes it even more dynamic self-steering behavior. L '' Audi magnetic ride "also has another option: the 'Sport'. Pressing the driver can vary the characteristic two-level accelerator (on models with manual transmission), the servo steering and exhaust sound.

Equipment
The TT Coupe and TT Roadster in the new version will be launched on the market during the summer. The rich standard equipment reflect the character of the TT and offer every comfort that the sporting driver could wish for. Remember, for example, the chorus audio system, the information system for the driver and, in the TT Coupe, automatic climate control. The package of restraint systems is particularly rich. Includes a comprehensive system of restraints, three-point automatic belts for all occupants (front with pretensioners and force limiters), two front airbags, two side airbags for head and chest, and Isofix anchoring points for attaching child seats. The TT series also has an on-board computer with efficiency program. The central display shows all relevant data for consumption and indications for efficient driving. The integrated indicator suggests from time to time the gear recommended. It is also referred to what the active users (eg climate) and how their energy needs to be passed on fuel consumption.

Among the extras stand the parking assistant, the alarm with volume control, the care system during take-off, the LED interior lighting package and the installation of speed control. In the field of infotainment is also available l '"Audi music interface" (AMI) for the connection of a mobile reader. The Concert audio system integrates an amplifier with five channels of 140 watts and nine speakers, the system also has a charger Symphony for six CDs. For international calls with full amenities are available as a Bluetooth interface, the mobile phone preparation and voice control. The choice of the optimal path found two navigation systems, on request, with the MMI operating logic of the House. The top version comes with a DVD player and display, 6.5 "color for three-dimensional mapping.

The Audi TTS
The Audi TTS Coupe and Roadster are united by a sportier and a unique comfort. The 2-liter TFSI, with a large turbocharger and characterized by a series of improvements, delivers 272 hp (200 kW) and torque of 350 Nm between 2,500 and 5,000 rpm. The TTS Coupe with S tronic six-speed (optional) changes from 0 to 100 km / h in 5.2 seconds and reaches a top speed electronically limited to 250 km / h. With the S tronic Coupe consumes on average just 7.7 liters of fuel per 100 km. The 18 "wheels with tires 245/40, the adaptive shock absorbers 'Audi magnetic ride', the 'Sport' and a high-performance braking system with four ventilated discs giving the TTS a purely dynamic. The body, lowered by 10 mm, has been subjected to a series of aesthetic touches, mostly focused on the single-frame grille, with double horizontal strips in aluminum look, and on the bumpers. For the exterior is available the new black panther crystal, a new combination for the interior prism of silver / black. The instrument panel features gray dials. The xenon plus headlights with daytime running lights in LED technology are standard.

The Audi TT RS
The flagship of the TT range consists of the Audi TT RS, which is also available in versions Coupé and Roadster. Proposes a layout engine that has contributed to the history of the brand: the powerful five-cylinder. Its high performance engine 2.5-liter engine with turbocharging and FSI direct injection delivers 340 hp (250 kW), and between 1,600 and 5,300 rpm, a torque of 450 Nm However, the average consumption is limited to 9, 2 liters of fuel per 100 km.

With the sporty six-speed manual transmission as standard close-ratio, the TT RS Coupe takes just 4.6 seconds from 0 to 100 km / h; optional quattro GmbH can increase the speed increasing it from 250 to 280 km / h . A control valve in the exhaust sounds sinister, controlled by the "Sport" button, makes the unmistakable roar of the five-cylinder even more intense. A request, a sports exhaust system to sound even more pronounced. S tronic seven-speed is able to handle the enormous torque produced by the powerful five-cylinder turbo. The new high-tech gear takes the configuration of the six-speed version. The top gear has a long relationship, which further reduces energy consumption of the supercar. The TT RS Coupe with S tronic touches 100 km / h in just 4.4 seconds. The shift can be operated in either automatic or manual lever or via paddles on the steering wheel with aluminum look. Behind the 18 "wheels the TT RS conceals a high performance braking system. The ventilated front brake discs have a diameter of 370 mm at the rear of 310 mm four-piston calipers are painted black and marked with the initials RS before. The electronic stabilization program (ESP) is provided with a sport mode and can also be turned off completely.

Thanks to the rigid sports chassis of the TT RS, the body is lowered by 10 mm, is available on request suspension system "Audi magnetic ride." The body is instantly recognizable by the numerous and sophisticated design details, including, for example, a fixed rear wing. Alternatively, without charge, is available a spoiler removable automatic. The xenon plus headlights with daytime running lights in LED technology are standard.

Prices
The Coupe with manual transmission costs 49,800 euros, 52,100 euros with S tronic. The Roadster costs a little more, 52,950 euros for the version with manual transmission and 55,250 for the one-speed S tronic. To bring home the RS version (one more thrust) needed 63,250 euros from 340 hp with manual transmission and 65,550 euros with S tronic.

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