Audi is taking the wraps off a new sports car model. In early summer, the top model of the TT line, the TTS, will be appearing at dealers in both Coupe and Roadster body versions. Its two-liter TFSI engine develops an awesome 200 kW (272 hp) that catapults the Coupe with S tronic dual-clutch transmission from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 5.2 seconds and on up to a governed top speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph).

Designed to appeal towards a particularly young and dynamic clientele, the TTS represents Audi's Vorsprung durch Technik in its very latest form. This sports car owes its superior performance to a whole raft of innovative concepts. quattro permanent all-wheel drive translates its sheer power efficiently into locomotion, and the Audi magnetic ride shock absorber system guarantees precise handling. The optional high-tech S tronic transmission can take charge of power transmission as well, shifting faster than even a highly skilled driver. The TTS Coupe starts at € 44,900 and the Roadster at € 47,750. The two-liter TFSI: the perfect sport engine

The TFSI engine in the TTS takes the two gasoline direct injection and turbocharging technologies from Audi and blends them to form a perfect partnership for a sports car. It is not only the 200 kW (272 hp) of output that makes the TFSI so scintillating, there's its hefty pulling power too – the maximum torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) is constantly on tap from 2,500 up to 5,000 rpm. Compared to the engine it was derived from, the two-liter power unit has been fundamentally reengineered and uprated to ready it for operation in the TTS. Thanks to its excellent efficiency, the sporty-sounding TFSI has an average fuel consumption of just 8.0 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers (29.40 mpg) in the Coupe when partnered by the six-speed manual transmission, while the figure for the Roadster averages 8.2 l/100 km (28.68 mpg). The optional S tronic dual-clutch transmission brings these figures down to 7.9 l/100 km (29.77 mpg) and 8.0 l/100 km (29.40 mpg) respectively.

S tronic, which operates with six speeds and two clutches, changes gear at high load and engine speed in a fraction of a second. This, coupled with its dynamic starting performance, knocks two-tenths of a second off the sprint to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) for both the Coupe and Roadster. Virtually loss-free transfer of power to the road is the task of the standard-specification quattro permanent allwheel drive, which enables the TTS to accelerate sooner and more reliably than its challengers. At the heart of this system is a hydraulic multi-plate clutch, which now works faster than ever thanks to a new pressure reservoir.

Audi magnetic ride: high-tech damping

  • The TTS rolls off the production line equipped with yet another high-tech module
  • the Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system. Circulating inside its damper pistons is a special fluid containing minute magnetic particles. When electrical voltage is applied, the fluid's flow properties change, altering the damping characteristics as well. The driver can choose between two mapped characteristics
  • Normal and Sport. Normal mode is designed for a well-balanced, comfortable ride, whereas in the Sport plane the TTS harnesses all of the potential of its sport suspension – which lowers the body by 10 millimeters (0.39 in) – to deliver uncompromisingly crisp handling.

Audi TTS TFSI (2009)
Audi TTS TFSI (2009) - picture 1 of 4
Audi TTS TFSI (2009) - picture 2 of 4
Audi TTS TFSI (2009) - picture 3 of 4
Audi TTS TFSI (2009) - picture 4 of 4

The front suspension is made of aluminum, thereby reducing the unsprung masses. The efficient technology behind the responsive electromechanical steering notably reduces fuel consumption and the four-link rear suspension handles longitudinal and transverse forces separately, making a big contribution to its dynamic impression. The sports car is safely brought to a standstill by the highperformance braking system with its large 17-inch disks. Audi has devised a second, sporty level for the ESP stabilization program which enables controlled drifting.

One of the factors behind the supreme performance of the TTS is the hybrid construction of its body. Steel is used only at the rear end, while the front and center sections of the body are built from lightweight aluminum.

ASF (Audi Space Frame) technology guarantees superb rigidity and safety by optimizing axle load distribution and reducing overall weight. The manual version of the Coupe weighs in at just 1,395 kilograms (3075.42 lb), equating to a powerto- weight ratio of 5.1 kilograms per hp (11.24 lb/hp).

It is clear at first glance that the Audi TTS is a dynamic top model within the TT line. The standard-fit 18-inch aluminum wheels are a highlight of the special design, as are the headlights, comprising newly designed bi-xenon units with LED daytime running lights. Inside, passengers are welcomed by deep-set sports seats trimmed in a mixture of leather and Alcantara, with Silk Nappa leather seat upholstery in four different color combinations available as an option. The gray background for the instruments as well as the leather multifunction steering wheel add further styling touches. For mobile entertainment, there is an audio system complete with CD player.

The Roadster comes with an electro-hydraulic drive for the soft top, a poweroperated wind deflector, plus a load-through facility for added practicality. The rear seats in the Coupe have a split-folding design, allowing luggage capacity to be increased from 290 to 700 liters (10.24 – 24.71 cubic ft). Audi has reached a special milestone with the TTS: It was ten years ago that the TT Coupe first took to the road, swiftly acquiring the status of a design icon. The TT has been increasing in popularity ever since, in both hard-top and open-top form. It has now reached new heights with the TTS.

Drivetrain

  • Two-liter TFSI developing 200 kW (272 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft)
  • 0 – 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.2 seconds (Coupe with S tronic), top speed 250 km/h (155.34 mph)
  • quattro all-wheel drive as standard, S tronic dual-clutch transmission optional

Chassis

  • Audi dynamic suspension with four-link rear suspension
  • Audi magnetic ride adaptive damping system
  • High-performance brake system with 17-inch disks
  • Sporty alloy wheels, 18 inches in diameter

Body and interior

  • Hybrid-design body for both Coupe and Roadster
  • Aluminum forward structure (Audi Space Frame ASF)
  • Driving area oriented toward the driver, instruments with gray dials
  • Variable trunk on Coupe, optional load-through facility on the Roadster
  • Two-color seat upholstery, extended aluminum package

Equipment

  • Bi-xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights
  • Fully automatic soft top and electrically extended wind deflector on

TTS Roadster

  • Sport seats with leather/Alcantara upholstery

Built for fun at the wheel
Strong character, striking appearance, impressive power – the Audi TTS is a fascinating sports car. A persuasive combination of ultramodern technologies makes it truly stand out from the competition: The two-liter TFSI engine developing 200 kW (272 hp), the optional high-tech S tronic transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive make the TTS a superior driving machine that is clearly built for fun.

Its suspension is easily up to the task of harnessing its performance and the Audi magnetic ride electronic damping system means drivers can exploit its characteristics however they see fit. Audi builds the TTS as a 2+2-seater Coupe and as a two-seater Roadster. It will be available for shipping in the early summer, with a starting price of € 44,900 for the enclosed version and € 47,750 for the open body version.

Performance
5.2 seconds for the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) and a top speed governed at 250 km/h (155.34 mph) – these two key figures for the Coupe with S tronic dual-clutch transmission clearly spell out just how much performance the Audi TTS has to offer. The sports car with the four-ring badge is a classic driving machine – powerful, fast and light, rigorously faithful to its concept and to applying it systematically.

The high efficiency of the TFSI engine is typical of Audi. The two-liter power unit mobilizes all of 200 kW (272 hp), yet the average fuel consumption in the Coupe version is a very abstemious 8.0 liters (29.40 mpg). In the Roadster, the figure is 8.2 liters per 100 km (28.68 mpg). In combination with S tronic, consumption is cut by a further one-tenth and two-tenths of a liter respectively.

When driven in laid-back style, the ultra-powerful TFSI engine shows resplendent poise – its 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) available constantly from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm gives it a broad torque plateau.

When the supercharged direct-injection unit is put to the test, however, it gladly displays its sport engine credentials. It responds to the accelerator directly and with plenty of bite, revving up to 6,800 rpm with playful ease. Yet throughout, the powerful TFSI delivers a sound that blends power with harmony thanks to the elaborate fine-tuning work that went into its intake and exhaust system. The manual six-speed transmission of the TTS harmonizes perfectly with this dynamic character. Audi can also supply the dynamic S tronic as an option, again with six speeds. With its two clutches, the high-tech transmission changes gear even faster than the sportiest driver. Plus it trims two-tenths of a second off the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) – reducing the figure to 5.2 seconds for the Coupe and 5.4 seconds for the Roadster.

quattro: even more grip, even more driving enjoyment

The quattro permanent all-wheel drive that distributes power between all four wheels if need be makes the TTS a genuine exception in the compact sports car segment. The latest version of this system responds even faster when the grip beneath the wheels changes. quattro technology continues to transfer the engine's entire power to the road where competitors with only two driven wheels start to find it difficult to maintain traction – whether on slippery surfaces or when accelerating early out of a bend.

The TTS Coupe and TTS Roadster weigh in at a very light unladen weight of 1,395 and 1,455 kilograms (3075.42 and 3207.69 lb) respectively, and their power-to-weight ratio is 5.1 and 5.3 kilograms per hp (11.24 and 11.68 lb/hp). Their highly rigid, predominantly aluminum bodies are the basis for excellent handling – giving the TTS the dynamism of a top athlete in this respect as well.

This Audi model, built for fun at the wheel, heads eagerly into curves thanks to its 18-inch wheels. Directed with precision by its responsive steering, the TTS takes every curve with stoic calm and at high speed. The handling limits are a long way up the range and make their presence felt in the form of subtle understeering – this effortless ease of control seems to be intrinsic to this Audi sports car's character. The technically highly advanced chassis that supports the body ten millimeters (0.39 in) lower on its shortened springs has acquired an even sportier edge thanks to the adaptive shock absorber control system known as Audi magnetic ride. The operating characteristics of the electronically controlled dampers can be changed at the push of a button, giving the driver the choice of insistently dynamic or balanced/comfortable driving.

The drivetrain
200 kW (272 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque – the two-liter TFSI hits top form in its new guise in the TTS. At Audi, the abbreviation FSI denotes direct injection of the gasoline into the combustion chambers. The T prefix indicates that performance is boosted by a turbocharger.

Direct injection and turbocharging are core Audi technologies, and a compelling combination for abundant driving pleasure and impressive efficiency. The Audi R8 racing car demonstrated how well they harmonize with each other. The sports prototype won the Le Mans 24 Hours five times between 2001 and 2005 and crossed the finishing line first in 59 out of 74 other races. The two-liter TFSI is proving similarly successful in production use – since 2005 it has been voted "Engine of the Year" by an international jury of trade journalists for three successive years.

The TFSI in the Audi TTS is a high-performance sport engine. It generates an output of 200 kW (272 hp) from a displacement of 1,984 cm3 and peak torque of 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) from as low as 2,500 rpm, maintaining the latter figure right up to 5,000 rpm

It accelerates the Coupe with six-speed manual transmission up to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 5.4 seconds, with the same exploit taking the Roadster just twotenths of a second longer. With the high-tech S tronic automatic transmission it accomplishes this feat even faster – in a mere 5.2 (Coupe) or 5.4 seconds (Roadster).

The electronic limiter calls a halt to this propulsion at a speed of 250 km/h (155.34 mph) in both models. Thanks to the engine's mighty torque, the manual Coupe version accomplishes the flexibility discipline – accelerating from 80 to 120 km/h (49.71 – 74.56 mph) in fourth gear – in 4.4 seconds (4.6 seconds for Roadster). Passing maneuvers are a mere footnote.

The Vorsprung durch Technik that Audi has demonstrated with the TFSI principle is also evident in the fuel efficiency. The manual-transmission Coupe needs just 8.0 liters per 100 km (29.40 mpg); the figure with the high-tech S tronic automatic transmission is even lower at 7.9 liters per 100 km (29.77 mpg). The Roadster achieves 8.2 and 8.0 l/100 km respectively (28.68 and 29.40 mpg) – yet more evidence of its impressive efficiency.

Strong basis: the 2.0 TFSI
The 2.0 TFSI in the Audi TTS incorporates key technical components of its 147 kW (200 hp) base engine. Its intake camshaft can be adjusted through 42 degrees for optimum cylinder charging and the two balancing shafts rotate at double the speed of the crankshaft to compensate for the second-degree inertial forces.

To equip it for use in the TTS, the undersquare engine was given a whole raft of radically reengineered features. The cylinder block has been reinforced at the main-bearing pedestals and the main-bearing cap. The piston pins, rings and connecting rods have also been adapted to the higher forces. The camshafts and annular valve seats, too, have been upgraded and the cylinder head consists of a new aluminum-silicon alloy.

The intake tract incorporates flaps that induce rolling movement in the incoming air. Special injectors inject the fuel into this "tumble" at pressures of up to 110 bar generated by a redesigned pump. The mixture has a lambda ratio of one – meaning one part fuel per 14.7 parts air. The compression ratio of 9.8:1 is in the same league as naturally aspirated engines, further enhancing the engine's thermodynamic efficiency.

It operates with a larger turbine wheel so that the reengineered turbocharger can deliver a particularly large quantity of air. The turbocharger is an integral module made from thermally high-strength cast steel that also incorporates the exhaust manifold. It very rapidly achieves its maximum relative boost pressure of 1.2 bar. An intercooler lowers the temperature of the compressed air, increasing the engine's thermodynamic efficiency as a result. The intercooler is made entirely from aluminum, making it even more efficient than a conventional component with plastic casing. The entire admission tract of the TTS has been optimized for minimum pressure loss. The development engineers successfully reduced the exhaust backpressure in the exhaust tract.

Audi's powerful 2.0 TFSI engine weighs just 153 kilograms (337.30 lb), much less than the equivalent power unit of a key competitor. This benefits the overall weight of the TTS and is also a big advantage for its axle load distribution and thus handling. The engine measures just 652 millimeters (25.67 in) in length, 648 millimeters (25.51 in) in width and 666 millimeters (26.22 in) in height, making it ideal for transverse installation.

Manual or automatic – the transmissions
A manual six-speed transmission is the standard solution for power transmission between the engine and wheels on the TTS. Both highly compact and ultra-light thanks to its magnesium casing, it perfectly reflects the characteristics of the top TT model. Its shafts and gears have been reinforced with an eye to the high engine torques, and gearshift travel is shorter. Gear changes are performed swiftly, with precision and ease – just as you would expect of an Audi.

Alternatively, the TTS is available with S tronic as an option – the dual-clutch transmission combines the strengths of an automatic with the benefits of a manual. It can change its six gears within just a few hundredths of a second without interrupting the power flow. S tronic responds with dynamic precision or serene poise depending on the requirements, making it the ideal partner for the TFSI engine. Its impressive efficiency is another factor that makes it ideal for the turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

The technical principle on which S tronic is based is as simple as it is brilliant: Two subsidiary transmissions, each with a multi-plate clutch, are integrated into a single casing. The first clutch serves the odd-numbered gears and reverse, and the second one serves the even-numbered gears.

The two input shafts share the same axle, with a solid shaft running inside a hollow shaft. Both subsidiary transmissions are continuously active, but only one is powered by the engine at any given time. If a gear is engaged by one of the subsidiary transmissions, the next is already preselected by the other; the gear change is accomplished by switching to the other clutch.

S tronic can be operated by the one-touch lever or – in motor racing style – via the shift paddles on the steering wheel. For added driver convenience, there are also two automatic operating modes: D (Drive) and S (Sport). S tronic's clutches also have an adaptive feature and permit a variety of different starting characteristics. On slippery surfaces, they are engaged cautiously. When grip is good, the power is engaged forcefully if the driver so wishes.

Unbeatable: quattro drive
quattro permanent all-wheel drive, like S tronic, underscores the unique position of the TTS in the compact sports car segment. In both areas of technology, its competitors are unable to offer anything comparable.

The nerve center of the quattro drive system, developed specially for transversemounted engines, is a multi-plate clutch that is electronically controlled and hydraulically actuated.

The clutch is located at the end of the propshaft, in front of the rear axle differential – an installed position that improves the axle load distribution. Inside is a package of plates, running in an oil bath, which can be pressed together by controlled hydraulic power. As this hydraulic pressure increases, the amount of torque diverted to the rear axle rises.

The clutch's control unit permanently analyses the driving conditions using a wide range of data. If necessary, an electrically driven axial piston pump with five pistons nearly instantaneously generates the oil pressure needed by the clutches to divert the drive torque almost entirely from the front to the rear wheels. Thanks to a pressure reservoir, this process is completed twice as fast as it used to be – in a matter of milliseconds. All important stages of the drive line have been reinforced, from the propshaft through the differentials to the drive shafts.

Again in the TTS, the quattro principle delivers the supreme capabilities that have become an Audi hallmark – greater traction, slip-free acceleration, dynamic driving, safety and directional stability, together making up Audi's proverbial Vorsprung durch Technik. The TTS handles dynamically and with supreme stability in all weather conditions.

The chassis
The front suspension of the TTS, with a track of 1,555 millimeters (61.22 in), adheres to a design principle that has already proved highly effective: a McPherson structure with triangular lower wishbones. The pivot bearings, the subframe and the wishbones are made from aluminum. This measure has cut the unsprung weight of the transverse links alone by 2.5 kilograms (5.51 lb). To increase the rigidity, the subframe is bolted to the body at six points. The level of servo assistance for the rack-and-pinion steering falls as the speed rises; its characteristics have been adapted to the dynamic overall character of the TTS.

Because the electromechanical system does not tap the power supply when the car is driving in a straight line, in contrast to hydraulic power steering, it operates very efficiently and saves an average of 0.2 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. With its precise, analytical operating principle, the steering provides good road feedback yet exhibits minimal sensitivity to excitation from the road surface. Its ratio of 16.9:1 gives it a sporty character.

The four-link rear suspension has a track width of 1,546 millimeters (60.87 in). Its design principle offers major benefits in terms of driving dynamics, because it separates the cushioning of longitudinal and transverse forces. The longitudinal links absorb the driveline and braking forces, and their relatively soft mounts permit good ride comfort. On the other hand, the three wishbones per wheel – the spring link, the upper wishbone and the tie rod – are attached very rigidly to the subframe, benefiting the handling characteristics.

All links are made from high-strength steel grades. Separate coil springs and dampers provide vertical support.

The Audi TTS comes as standard with 18-inch cast aluminum wheels that sport the five-arm parallel-spoke S design and are shod with 245/40-size tires as standard. For winter driving, the same size wheels are available with winter tires or with 17-inch tires that are compatible with snow chains. A number of other wheel variants are optionally available, including an exclusive 19-inch cast aluminum wheel designed by quattro GmbH.

The large wheels conceal high-performance sport brakes. The ventilated disks on the front wheels measure 340 millimeters (25.67 in) in diameter and 310 mm (13.39 in) at the rear. The brake calipers are painted black, with special TTS badges at the front. Their sport brake pads guarantee high friction.

For sport enthusiasts: two-stage ESP
The ESP electronic stabilization program is optimized for dynamic driving. A brief press of a button at lower speeds – e.g. when driving on snow chains – is all it takes to increase wheel slip. When the button is pressed longer, the TTS driver enters a second, sporty operating plane in which the ESP permits controlled sideslip angles. The brakes intervene somewhat later than in normal operation and the engine manipulation is suppressed.

The elastokinematic behavior of the chassis links on the TTS has been slightly modified compared with the basic technical configuration; sporty springs hold the body ten millimeters (0.39 in) lower. This built-for-fun Audi is equipped with the high-tech Audi magnetic ride as standard – the shock absorbers' electronic control resolves the conflict between comfort and drivability.

The shock absorber pistons contain a synthetic hydrocarbon fluid in which microscopically small magnetic particles measuring between three and ten microns (a micron is one-thousandth of a millimeter) are enclosed. When voltage is applied to a coil, a magnetic field is created in which the alignment of the particles changes.

They arrange themselves transversely to the direction of flow of the fluid, thus inhibiting its flow through the piston channels. This alters the damping characteristic within a matter of milliseconds, much faster than is possible with conventional adaptive dampers.

The magnetic ride system's control unit constantly monitors the properties of the road surface and the driver's style, adjusting the response accordingly. The driver can change between the Normal and Sport modes at the touch of a button. In Normal mode, when the fluid is able to flow readily, the TTS offers a wellbalanced, comfortable ride. In the Sport mode it is uncompromisingly crisp, hugging the road; any hint of body roll is nipped in the bud. The steering response becomes even more precise and specific stabilization of each wheel imparts even more neutrality to the self-steering behavior.

The body
An unladen weight of just 1,395 kilograms (3075.42 lb) for the manual TTS Coupe and 1,455 kilograms (3207.69 lb) for the Roadster version – low weight is the bedrock of both TTS versions' dazzling performance. The power-to-weight ratio of 5.1 kg/hp (11.02 lb/hp) for the Coupe and 5.3 kg/hp (11.68 lb/hp) for the Roadster is a fitting reflection of Audi's expertise in sports car construction. The key factor is the design of both body versions. In each case, the forward structure is made from lightweight aluminum components assembled with Audi Space Frame technology (ASF) – a principle with which the brand kicked off a revolution in vehicle manufacturing in the early 1990s. Extruded sections, pressure die-castings and load-bearing aluminum panels together form a light, extremely rigid and ultra-safe structure that offers good vibrational comfort. On the Coupe, the seam between the roof and the side sections is welded by laser – this "invisible joint" gives visible expression to the extremely high standards of precision embodied by the Audi brand.

By contrast, the rear section of the floor assembly, the doors and the rear lid of the TTS are made from steel. This gives the car a balance that harmonizes perfectly with the quattro drive's characteristics. 58 percent of the Coupe's weight with manual transmission rests on the front wheels and 42 percent on the rear wheels. Thanks to this hybrid design, the Coupe bodyshell weighs just 206 kilograms (454.15 lb). This is comprised of 140 kilograms (308.64 lb) of aluminum (68 percent) and 66 kilograms (145.50 lb) of steel (32 percent); an all-steel structure would have weighed one and a half times as much. The body of the TTS Roadster weighs in at 251 kilograms (553.35 lb); it incorporates special components such as the steel bulkhead behind the passenger compartment and intensively ribbed side sills.

In the event of a rollover, passengers are protected by the windshield frame, which is reinforced with a super-strength steel tube, and the two rigid rollover bars with aluminum trim. The Roadster and Coupe come complete with front airbags that are activated in two stages, depending on the severity of an accident.

The belt tensioners and belt force limiters protect the driver and passenger. In a rear-end collision, the Audi backguard system uses the head restraints to support the back of the head. Both cars are equipped with head/thorax side airbags for protection in the event of a side impact.

The TTS Coupe and Roadster are assembled at the Györ plant; the ready-painted bodies arrive by rail from Ingolstadt. Györ serves as the home plant of the TT – the first generation of this sports car went into production in the city in northwest Hungary back in 1998.

The exterior design
A compact, muscular body that appears to be straining at the leash even when stationary, an expressive nose end, a prominent tail and of course the famous aluminum tank cap – the Coupe and Roadster have engaging, charismatic styling. Bold lines serve to emphasize the highly dynamic character of the TT.

The front end is dominated by the large platinum gray single-frame grille that sports a silver and red TTS badge. The front apron has been reshaped; the air inlets have been made larger and extend uninterrupted across the entire width, their abruptly downward-pointing corners reinforcing the striking look. The lower edging panel, or blade, is painted in the body color.

The redesigned headlights combine bi-xenon units with LED daytime running lights, a major safety innovation from Audi. The twelve white light-emitting diodes on each side are arranged in a straight line along the lower edge of the housing, combining with the plastic wings to give the brand an unmistakable design feature. The headlights are more than just lights - their design elevates them to the status of miniature technical works of art.

When viewed in profile, it is not only the large 18-inch wheels which stand out; the widened, deeper side sills are equally eye-catching. The exterior mirror housings are in gleaming aluminum. A chunky rear bumper, a diffuser trim in platinum gray and a TTS badge help the TTS make an even more imposing exit. The twin tailpipes on the left and right hint at the potential of the most powerful four-cylinder engine in the Audi range.

As on the TT, the spoiler of the TTS extends automatically at a speed of 120 km/h (74.56 mph) and is retracted again at 80 km/h (49.71 mph); in conjunction with the smooth underbody, it reduces lift. The Coupe boasts a drag coefficient of 0.31 with a frontal area of 2.09 m2; the Roadster achieves cD = 0.33 (with the soft top up) with the same frontal area.

Both cars measure 4,198 millimeters (165.28 in) in length and 1,842 millimeters (72.5 in) in width. The Coupe version of the TTS stands 1,345 millimeters (52.95 in) tall and the Roadster 1,350 millimeters (53.15 in).

Audi provides a choice of twelve body colors. The solid colors are Ibis White, Brilliant Red, Brilliant Black, Solar Orange and Imola Yellow. The metallic hues bear the names Ice Silver, Sahara Silver and Condor Gray, and the pearl effect paint finishes are Meteor Gray, Phantom Black, Deep Sea Blue and Sprint Blue. Solar Orange, Imola Yellow and Sprint Blue have been created exclusively for the TTS.

The TTS Roadster's soft top is available in beige, black or dark gray. It incorporates a large, heated glass rear window and folds down in a Z-pattern when the roof is open, making a lid or tonneau cover unnecessary. An electro-hydraulic drive opens and closes the soft top in twelve seconds at the push of a button, even when on the move at speeds of less than 50 km/h (31.01 mph). Additional matting between the headlining and outer skin provides outstanding soundproofing and thermal insulation, and an electrically extended and retracted wind deflector reduces draughts at neck level with the soft top open.

The interior
The driving area of the built-for-fun TTS is tailored exactly to the driver, like a sports kit. The center console is turned subtly towards the driver and all switches and controls are optimally arranged. The neatly sporty interior design and unique choice and build quality of the materials are also hallmarks of an Audi. The domed structure above the instruments, the dials recessed in tubes, the round air vents and the chunky rotary controls of the automatic air conditioning have become established TT characteristics.

The designers created a raft of extra highlights in the TTS. The dials are in gray; when the ignition is switched on, the white needles of the speedo and rev counter move slickly across to the upper limit, then return to their rest position. The driver information system with a new, high-resolution white display brings together important information in the driver's field of view. It incorporates a timer for recording lap times on the racetrack. The deep-set sport seats guide and support the body perfectly, are heightadjustable and have seat heating. They come as standard with leather/Alcantara seat covers either in black throughout or in black and silver; the contrast stitching is silver.

Two-color: seat covers in red and orange

The two-color concept is a defining trait of the TTS that also applies to the optional seat covers in Silk Nappa leather. The contrasting colors available are magma red, silver and signal orange; with matching seams. There is also the option of the Impulse leather package, comprising black trim with silver stitching in the Coupe or chennai brown trim with espresso-colored contrast stitching in the case of the Roadster.

The predominant color inside the TTS is sporty black, punctuated by a number of elements in pale gray. The standard specification includes trim surfaces in brushed aluminum; the footrest and pedals are in stainless steel. The door sill trims, the leather multifunction sport steering wheel with flat-bottomed rim and the gear knob display TTS logos. The selector lever on S tronic has been modified – the release catch is now on the front instead of at the side.

Like the TT, the TTS is a sports car that is excellently suited to everyday driving. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the 2+2-seater Coupe, expanding the trunk space from 290 to 700 liters (10.24 – 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster, which offers 250 liters (8.83 cubic ft) of storage space no matter if the soft top is up or down, can also be supplied with the option of a load-through facility plus removable ski bag.

The equipment
As the dynamic top model in the TT line, the Audi TTS offers an extensive, sporty equipment specification as standard. Its highlights are quattro permanent all-wheel drive, the adaptive damping system Audi magnetic ride, and the large 18-inch alloy wheels. All these features have the same objective – to deliver competition-beating performance.

In addition to striking modifications to the body, the redesigned xenon plus headlights with LED daytime running lights lend the TTS's face an unmistakable expressiveness. For instantly accessible, undiluted open-air driving enjoyment the TTS Roadster has an electro-hydraulic soft top and an electric wind deflector. Inside, both versions are dominated by the leather multifunction sport steering wheel, which comes complete with shift paddles on versions with the S tronic transmission. The extended aluminum styling and heated sport seats with their exclusive leather/Alcantara upholstery are further highlights. Mobile entertainment comes in the form of the chorus audio system with CD player. Generous storage facilities, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, automatic air conditioning and an interior mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function add to comfort and convenience when traveling in the TTS. For occupant safety, there are Isofix child seat mounts for the passenger seat, complete with an airbag deactivation switch.

Audi can supply a whole host of high-tech components as options. These include the competition-beating S tronic dual-clutch transmission, two navigation systems, a Bose Sound System and an iPod provision. Electrically adjustable seats, upholstered optionally in Silk Nappa leather or Impulse leather, bucket seats from the Audi exclusive range, a parking aid, hill-start assist, cruise control, an interior lighting package with LED lights and adaptive light, the dynamic cornering light system, add a note of luxury to this built-for-fun car. Shipping of the TTS will begin in the early summer. The Coupe starts at € 44,900 and the Roadster at € 47,750.