We drive the new Audi TT Coupe S Line
For many Audi lovers the TT is an iconic model that has stood out since it first entered the market with its eye catching looks and perhaps you could say that it was a car that represented the future of sports coupes in a way that still holds true. Twenty years later and while there might be other more performance-enhanced sports cars out there now, the latest-generation TT is still fun, with its subtle styling updates, added power, more standard spec and and updated infotainment system. Here’s what it’s like to live with on a daily basis…
Different look?
For many, the updated TT might not look completely different at first glance. With only a few subtle changes to its exterior – from a slightly revised grille, new 19-inch wheel design options, as well as a more athletic appearance to our S Line test unit – the 2019 Audi TT maintains its original coupe styling that fans have come to know and love. Headlights with LED technology are now standard on the TT and the S Line’s titanium black radiator grille with specific side sills and inserts as well as a sporty rear end give it an even more striking appearance on the road. Our S Line test unit came in the exclusive Turbo Blue body colour and it sure turned heads wherever I drove, or parked.
More inside
Step inside and the updated TT includes a nice round up of what we’ve seen in new Audi models this year, with an overall feeling of Audi’s refinement and sportiness for 2019. As a sports coupe you can expect a driver-orientated cockpit, with a generous amount of space and comfort for both driver and passenger – legroom for days! The dash is neatly laid out with minimal clutter, loads of leather padding and encompasses the TT’s virtual cockpit which houses a 12.3-inch digital display ahead of the driver. There is no additional screen in the centre of the dashboard and I quite like it that way – because it means that you can keep your head forward and focused on the road at all times. The new sport display is available for the TTS and provides information on the engine output currently in use, as well as the torque and g-forces.
Turn it up!
If enhanced acoustics enhances your driving experiences, you’ll want to opt for the Bang & Olufsen Sound System. Its amplifier offers 680 watts of performance and a total of 14 channels. It fills the interior using twelve speakers, including two centre speakers and two bass boxes and really brings that live performance sound right into your cabin.
Fun Mode [ON]
Two petrol engines are available for the 2019 TT range in South Africa. These include the 45 TFSI S tronic which delivers 169 kW of power and the quattro S tronic which produces 228 kW of power. The 45 TFSI is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, while the TTS is mated to a six-speed S tronic transmission. It’s not a supercar by any means, and it’s not supposed to be, because the TT does a really good job at adapting to everyday driving environments like the city or the bumpy roads of Cape Town’s southern suburbs. BUT, get it on the right road when you’re in the mood for some fun, and the TT (particularly the TTS) will humour you with its excellent driving ability. When it kicks into fun mode you’ll appreciate Audi’s progressive steering around twisty turns, as well as effortless road handling thanks to the S Line’s quattro drive. There is certainly fun to be had if you want it!
Also read: Car Review: New Audi Q3
PRICING
The Audi TT Coupé 45 TFSI S tronic is priced at R 670,00 and the Audi TTS Coupé quattro S tronic is priced at R 782,000. Both models come standard with the 5 year / 100 000km Audi Freeway plan and inclusive of all taxes.
The facelifted Audi TT range is currently available for sale at Audi Dealerships around South Africa.