TT Set To Go Out With A Bang

There's an all-new model on the way next year, but Audi's TT is getting a final shot in the arm with the launch of this lightweight quattro sport - complete with snazzy two-tone paintwork.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Richard Dredge

02nd March 2005

Unveiled at this week's Geneva Motor Show, the car uses the 1.8-litre turbo engine from the standard 225bhp TT, yet the ECU has been modified to up the output to 240bhp. The new arrival offers 320Nm of torque, and with a 75kg reduction in weight, it covers 0-60mph in only 5.9 seconds, and has a 155mph top speed.

Engineers have shed the pounds by ditching a number of features including the climate control. But it's not all about 'go' - there's extra 'show', too. As well as the special paint, twin black tailpipes and new 18-inch alloys give the TT a menacing look.

The revamp continues inside, with Alcantara trim on the gearknob, steering wheel and handbrake. The standard seats have been replaced by racing-style bucket chairs. Sharper steering and stiffer springs improve the handling, while the battery has been moved from the engine bay to the boot floor to optimise the model's weight distribution.

The newcomer will be available in a choice of five exclusive colours, with the shade of the paint also being used on the outer shell of the seats. Dealers are now taking orders for the quattro sport, with the first cars being delivered in May. The model is expected to cost around ΂£29,355.