A few months ago Audi launched their new and improved TT coupé on the South African market. Now, when the engine of the coupé hasn’t even cooled off yet, the German company launches the Roadster version.Audi hasn’t drifted too far away from the design that caught our attention back in 1998, but has enhanced it in a way that sets this Roadster in a class above the rest. With athletic curves and muscular shoulder-line, the new generation TT has literally “grown up” from its predecessor. It is now longer, wider and higher than the previous model, but Audi using ASF (Audi Space Frame) technology and featuring hybrid construction, have managed to keep the weight down. Built using 58-percent aluminium and 42-percent steel, the TT weighs in at 1295 kg.
The transverse-mounted engines available are the 2.0-litre FSI Turbo and the 3,2-litre V6 used in the coupé. The four-cylinder turbo unit produces 147 kW and 280 N.m of torque, while the V6, with the acclaimed Quattro AWD technology, puts out a hefty 184 kW and 320 N.m.
New to the range is the S-Tronic gearbox while will be made available to both models. Audi claim the TFSI accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in a time of 6.5 seconds with a top speed of 237 km/h. The V6 quattro fitted with S-Tronic is expected to sprint to 100 km/h from zero in 5.9 seconds, and pegs a governed top-speed of 250 km/h.
The re-worked chassis features a complex four-link rear suspension, which is constructed to keep the coil-springs and shock absorbers separate from one another. Front suspension, refined using lightweight aluminium components, is linked to a separate subframe and has a McPherson construction. Other features include wide track, elastokinematics and large wheels.
For enhanced safety, the ESP (electronic stabilisation program) has been redeveloped and helps produce the steering balance for the Roadster. Maximum braking power is ensured through the use of the brake assist system. An electronically controlled spoiler rises out of the boot lid when speed exceeds the 120 km/h mark, keeping the car flat on the road. Aluminium beams and padding in the doors reduces impact force when hit from the side. Audi’s backguard system, coupled with two-stage full-size airbags, are available to keep consequences from a front or rear collision at a minimum.
Instead of conforming to market trends, Audi ditched the folding hardtop idea and stuck to the time-less classic of a soft top. The rag opens in only 12 seconds and can even be opened at speeds of up to 50 km/h. It is available in both black and dark grey.
Prices:
TTR 2.0T FSI manual R395 000
TTR 2.0T FSI S-tronic R411 000
TTR 3.2 quattro manual R485 000
TTR 3.2 quattro S-tronic R501 000