Yahoo Autos 2009 Audi TTS Coupe / TTS Roadster
A Noticeable Improvement, but Not a Huge One
For the enthusiast, the TTS is certainly a noticeable improvement over the V-6, but it’s not a huge one. In fact, if you’re not taking your car to the racetrack every weekend, we suggest you still consider the V-6, even though it’s not quite as fast, is less fuel efficient, and lacks the edge in handling. But its 3.2-liter V-6 sings a sweeter, more melodious song, and the TT 3.2 is also considerably cheaper than the TTS - by a full €6000 ($9300) in Germany, although the premium will surely be lower in the U.S., pricing for which will be announced closer to its stateside launch in late November.
And there’s another reason: The V-6 model is available with a six-speed manual transmission, but the TTS comes only with the six-speed dual-clutch S tronic transmission. Many of us still prefer a manual box, no matter how quick-shifting S tronic may be.
Maike Fischbeck, head of product marketing for Audi’s sports cars, expects 10 percent of TT customers to go all-out for the TTS. They will likely be split evenly between the coupe and roadster versions. Simultaneous with the TTS launch, Audi is adding a 1.8-liter entry-level engine and a 2.0-liter diesel to the lineup, the diesel being the first such unit in an Audi sports car. Both versions are unlikely to make it to the U.S.
So set your sights on another TT derivative that is not yet confirmed but seems likely to hit the market next year: The TT-RS, a truly high-performance derivative with extensive body changes and a turbocharged five-cylinder engine. Rated at about 350 horsepower, it should legitimately compete with the most powerful cars in its segment - instead of simply catching up.
You Might Also Like
