Driven: Hottest Audi TTS arrives

AUDI predicts that Australia's demand for speed, style and substance will push the new TTS Coupe and Roadster performance pair beyond the popularity of its predecessor.

In its previous generation, the more performance-focused TTS comprised about 20 per cent of all TT sales, but the German car-maker says with growing interest in its S-branded models, that figure could grow to 30 per cent.

Priced from $99,900 before on-road costs for the Coupe or $4000 more for the convertible Roadster, the new TT adds 41kW and 10Nm to the TT's 2.0-litre turbo four-pot for a total of 210kW and 380Nm.

In addition to the pumped-up power output, the new TT flagship also has a raft of other performance-enhancing features, with modifications to brakes, steering and suspension, as well as a fettling of its looks for an all-round sharpened package.

Speaking at the launch of the TTS pair, Audi Australia product planner Peter Strudwike told GoAuto that Australia's unique taste for higher-end specification stands the new TTS on good ground for its second generation.

“Based on our initial orders form dealers we're getting very strong orders for TTS,” he said. “Obviously time will tell which cars customers choose but also if you look at the majority of TTs sold so far, they have been Quattro S line, which are the closest to the TTS in terms of pricing and spec so I think there is potential.

“Previous generation was around 20 per cent. Initially we've got orders up to about 50 per cent and that will taper off a bit, but whether it goes back to 20 per cent? I'm inclined to think it will be higher and maybe 30 per cent.”

Like the previous model, the new TTS is available in either 2+2 Coupe or as a soft-topped two-seater priced from $103,900, with the sales split predicted to be 75 per cent in favour of the tin-top.

With its increased power output, the new TTS has cut the zero to 100km/h dash by 0.6-seconds when compared to the previous TTS, which is now down to 4.7 seconds, or a tenth of a second slower for the slightly heavier convertible.

Maximum speed is 250km/h for both models and fuel consumption is rated at 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres or 6.9L/100km for the Roadster.

Squeezing the extra grunt from the TFSI engine was not simply a matter of turning up the boost, and Audi's engineers fitted the direct-injection four-cylinder with different pistons con-rods, bearings and valve springs to cope with the higher internal loads, while the crank-case was reinforced.

Boost pressure has been turned up to 1.2 bar (relative) with a corresponding upgrade to the intercooler to cope with the increased charge volume and temperature.

The new TTS is only available as an automatic with no manual option on offer, sharing the same six-speed dual-clutch transmission of the TT, which sends torque to all four corners via the company's iconic quattro system.

Gear shifts can be either managed by a fully automatic mode or by the driver via steering wheel paddles.

While Audi magnetic ride was available as a $2250 option for TT, the TTS has the adaptive system standard with a 10mm lower ride height when compared to the standard TT. Its electric power steering has a variable rate rack and has also been customised for a more sporty feel.

Ride comfort, handling, throttle response and gear shifts are switchable with the Audi Drive Select System which introduces a new Sport setting for the TTS in addition to the Auto, Efficient, Dynamic and Individual modes.

The TTS' brakes have been given a significant upgrade with 338mm front rotors and four-pot fixed callipers replacing the floating single piston and 312mm discs of the TT, and ventilated 310mm rear rotors replace the 300mm versions.

The upgrade has improved stopping performance and saved 5kg over the standard system.

A choice of five 19-inch wheel designs are available as well as two 20-inch options to complement the mild exterior differences which include TTS badging, quad exhaust pipes and meatier side skirts.

On the inside the sportiest TT gets a unique steering wheel and interior trim pattern and more TTS badges, while S sport leather and Alcantara seats with adjustable side bolsters are standard. Seat heating is included for Roadsters.

Audi's Virtual Cockpit information display, nine-speaker sound system, MMI navigation with 10GB memory and connectivity for SD cards, Bluetooth, aux-in and USB carry over from the TT.

Safety features include active lane keep assistant, parking radar with reversing camera, driver fatigue monitoring and alert, ESC, ABS, tyre pressure monitoring, hill hold assistance and six airbags plus front passenger thorax protection for the Roadster.

All TTSs have full LED headlights, but can be upgraded to the Matrix LED lights for $1900, which have adaptive beams for creating a black spot around oncoming and leading vehicles without having to dip.

Audi offers a good selection of optional equipment including packages such as the $6300 S performance option which adds the Matrix headlights along with a choice of more exclusive wheels, red brake callipers, Nappa leather and the top-spec Bang & Olufsen sound system.

The $1900 Assistance pack brings side assistance, parking assistance, auto dimming and folding mirrors as well as self dipping headlights.

Special paint colours range from $700 for Vegas Yellow to $2100 for crystal effect colours, while a gloss black exterior trim set costs $1100.

Audi Exclusive options offer an extensive range of interior customisation options for selected customers at additional cost – available on application.