Audi is buffing up its next TT to follow closely in the spirit of the current coupe – and CAR’s new artist’s impression points the way to the new third-generation TT coming in 2014.
And our spies in mainland Europe have scooped early prototypes of the 2014 Audi TT on test as Audi prepares its new coupe for development.
So what’s new on the 2014 Audi TT?
CAR’s sources in Ingolstadt confirm the car’s front end is positively mean-looking, boasting a hectagonal singleframe grille, a pair of large low-mounted air intakes as well as wraparound combined headlamp-and-indicator units, as depicted in our new picture.
At the back, to increase the downforce the stubby rear end houses an active air dam which is supported by a neatly integrated high-mounted roof spoiler.
Audi’s R&D chief Michael Dick has previously told CAR: ‘It will be a fusion of the Mk1 and Mk2. Expect a more sinewy and athletic car. The design remains iconic, but the driving dynamics will advance significantly.’
What about inside the new Audi TT?
Expect a variation of the fully animated single-screen instrument panel devised for the next Audi R8 supercar. The rest of the world has caught up with Audi interiors, so we also expect a fresh focus to make sure cabins bearing the four rings still feel special.
And to drive?
Based on the same flexible MQB architecture as the next 2012 VW Golf Mk7 and Audi A3, the new TT relies once more heavily on four-cylinder engines.
The two petrol-fed four-cylinders deliver 180 and 220bhp, the diesel develops 178hp and the racier TTS will be equipped with a 276bhp turbocharged 2.0 litre. Quattro is standard on this model and on the next TT RS, which borrows the awesome 385bhp kraftwerk upgrade from the 2012 limited-edition.
When can I buy a new Audi TT Mk3?
The new TT coupe lands first in 2014. Expect the roadster versions to arrive just three months after the fixed-head.