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.