Hard-edged new Audi TTS lands in SA

Published Oct 15, 2015

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By: IOL Motoring Staff

Johannesburg - Just eight months after the SA launch of the third-generation Audi TT, it's joined this week by its harder-edged sibling, the TTS Coupé.

Sharing the two-litre TFSI turbopetrol four of the S3, it's rated at 210kW and 380Nm - good enough for a 0-100 getaway in 4.8 seconds, at a nominal cost of 7.1 litres per 100km.

Only one derivative will be offered on the South African market, in Coupé format with S tronic auto transmission, including launch control for controlled hot take-offs.

Exhaust flaps let you choose between discretion and intimidation, while the latest version of Audi's iconic quattro all-wheel drive, its electro-hydraulically controlled multi-plate centre clutch now mounted on the rear axle (and shaving about 1.5kg compared to the previous model) promises outstanding stability and traction.

You can modulate the all-wheel drive parameters using the drive select controller to suit the way you drive; Autio mode will give you optimum traction and balanced driving dynamics, while in Dynamic mode the torque distribution is more rear-biased to dial out understeer and provide more seat-of-the-pants control, especially on slippery surfaces.

TT'S GOT THE LOOK

You could never mistake this for an 'ordinary' TT Coupé; the TTS rides 10mm lower on special 19 inch rims, with a special grille, wider air-intakes, four tailpipes instead of two and aluminium-look mirror housings. Full-LED headlights are standard issue, with Matrix LED lighting an extra-cost option.

The TTS shares its interior trim with the rest of the TT line-up - except for special TTS badging throughout. That includes all-digital instrumentation and a multimedia interface with touchpad, accessing a high resolution 12,3” LCD screen and powerful Nvidia processor.

You can also control most of its functions either from the multi-function steering wheel or by whole-word voice control. Standard programming includes Navigation Plus with 3D graphics and detailed cityscapes, as well as Bluetooth with audio streaming, music interface with USB inputs and a hard disc for storing music and video files.

Unique to the TTS, however, are the graphics to display a central rev-counter for a more sporty driving feel.

Standard equipment includes keyless entry, electrically operated sports front seats, mixed alcantara and leather upholstery, light and rain sensors, aluminium-look interior trim elements, a leather-trimmed, flat-bottomed steering wheel with shift paddles, cruise control, digital aircon and LED interior lighting

BOTTOM LINE

TTS Coupé 2.0T FSI quattro S tronic - R 700 500.

That includes a five-year or 100 000km maintenance plan.

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