Audi TT

The sportscar's design team describes the new TT as an evolutionary, rather than revolutionary take on the 1998 original. Measuring 4,178 mm long and 1,842 mm wide it's certainly bigger than its forebearer, but has lost none of its hi-tech appeal.

For the first time, the TT includes Audi's ASF Space Frame design consisting of aluminium and steel. 69 percent of the superstructure is made of aluminium, while the 31 percent that is steel is found mainly at the rear end, ensuring balanced distribution of the axle loads.

At launch, two engines will be available, a four-cylinder 200bhp 2.0l turbocharged TFSI unit and a V6 250bhp 3.2-litre unit. Both engines are equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, which can optionally incorporate the dynamic S tronic dual-clutch system. Whereas the four-cylinder engine comes in front-wheel drive only, the V6 distributes its power across both axles by way of Audi's quattro famed permanent four-wheel drive system.

To improve aerodynamic downforce, a spoiler extends from the tailgate once the car reaches the preset speed at which it will make a difference.

A revised suspension package includes the option for Audi's new Magnetic Ride damper technology - tiny magnetic particles circulate inside the shock absorber oil, enabling the damping characteristics to be changed in milliseconds by an electronic control system. This allows the TT to combine high levels of ride comfort with sporty dynamics, changing on the fly, as driving conditions and driver preferences demand.

On the inside the new TT includes an automatic air conditioning system, and a redesigned flat-bottomed sports steering wheel, which makes the cabin easier to get in and out of.

See next week's Auto Express magazine (April 12th) for a full-length feature and analysis of the new TT.