Audi has unveiled the new TT 2.0 TDI quattro which is available in both the coupe and roadster.
The Audi TT 2.0 TDI is powered by a 2.0L 4-cylinder diesel engine that produces 170 horsepower and 258.15 lb-ft of torque, while also achieving 44.38mpg (42.77 for the roadster. The TT 2.0 TDI coupe also reaches 0-62 mph in 7.5 seconds.
Who knows if we will ever see this model in the US.
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PRESS RELEASE:
The new Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro:
Powerful performance with maximum efficiency
Audi is once again setting standards, this time with the new Audi TT and its TDI engine-a model that combines pure sportiness and powerful performance with sensational efficiency. The Audi TT 2.0 TDI Coupe quattro and Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI quattro are the first series-production sports cars to feature diesel engines. It’s a compelling union:
The two-liter engine generates dynamic propulsion with 125 kW (170 hp) and 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque, yet the TT Coupe and TT Roadster consume an average of only 5.3 liters and 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 mpg and 42.77 mpg) respectively-unparalleled in the sports car segment.
Audi is setting the pace with this synthesis of excellent dynamism and low fuel consumption, as it has done for many years: Since debuting in 1989 the TDI engines from the brand with the four rings have been paving the way for the world’s most successful efficiency technology and acting as trendsetters for the entire automobile industry. Today, these powerful, refined and highly fuel-efficient engines represent a modern, smart take on sportiness. The run of victories achieved by the Audi R10 TDI diesel race car at the Le Mans 24 Hours and in the American Le Mans Series are impressive evidence of the tremendous potential of this technology.
The dynamic diesel engines from Audi exert an exciting impact not just in racing but also in series-production models-and now indeed in a sports car. The TT Coupe quattro with the 2.0 TDI sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The Audi TT Roadster, likewise equipped with quattro permanent all-wheel drive, requires only an extra tenth of a second for the standard sprint, and continues up to a top speed of 223 km/h (138.57 mph). Both versions serve as outstanding examples of the success of the Audi efficiency strategy, thanks to their fuel efficiency ratings of 5.5 liters per 100 km (42.77 mpg), a figure that corresponds to CO2 emissions of only 145 grams/km.
Powerful, refined and efficient: The 2.0 TDI
The new four-cylinder TDI engine (engine displacement = 1,968 cc) represents a fresh take on the all-round compelling qualities of the TDI concept. Designers of the dual-camshaft, two-liter model looked to its predecessor-the most-produced diesel engine in the world-and expanded upon its major strengths: driving pleasure, efficiency and refinement.
The new common rail injection system is equipped with highly modern piezo injectors, whose eight-hole injection nozzles can perform up to five distinct injection sequences per cycle. This fine degree of modulation creates a modest pressure increase in the combustion chambers, resulting in a significantly reduced noise level. The system pressure of 1,800 bar allows fuel to form a fine dispersion, enabling precise, highly efficient combustion.
The turbocharger is also part of a new generation and operates with adjustable vanes that allow torque to build up rapidly. The positions of swirl flaps on the intake manifold are controlled by electric motors in order to adapt the flow of air to the current load and engine speed. The geometry of the engine’s pistons has been modified, and the acoustics of the camshaft drive belt have been overhauled. Just as they did in the preceding model, two balancing shafts reduce the vibrations arising in the crankshaft drive.
The cumulative result of this progress is a high maximum engine speed of 5,000 rpm and, most importantly, improved thermodynamics in the combustion chambers. What this means is that the engine can run on up to 60 percent recycled exhaust that has been thoroughly cooled by the radiator. This results in a drastic reduction in untreated NOx emissions, with the 2.0 TDI already meeting the threshold values of the upcoming Euro 5 standard.
Dynamic road performance
The 2.0 TDI in the Audi TT Coupe and the Audi TT Roadster delivers 125 kW (170 hp) at 4,200 rpm and sends a full 350 Nm (258.15 lb-ft) of torque to the crankshaft at engine speeds between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. Operating quietly and generating little in the way of vibration, this model delivers a hefty amount of power at the lowest rpm levels and is highly responsive to input from the gas pedal. Its supreme power development lends this engine its own unique, fascinating character-that of a muscular, smart sports engine.
The Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDI quattro easily leaves the gasoline-powered competition behind when accelerating from a standstill. It sprints from zero to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in just 7.5 seconds and never looks back until it reaches 226 km/h (140.43 mph). The TT Roadster accelerates to 100 km/h (62.14 mph) in 7.7 seconds and keeps going up to 223 km/h (138.57 mph).
These models-the world’s first diesel sports cars-consume an average of only 5.3 liters and 5.5 liters of fuel per 100 km (44.38 mpg and 42.77 mpg) respectively, which corresponds to CO2 emissions of a mere 140 g/km and 145 g/km. In so doing, they are setting a benchmark that represents a veritable quantum leap in the sports car segment. With the TDI engine in the TT series, Audi once again establishes its leading role on the diesel market. The brand with the four rings is advancing progress and starting at the top.
In keeping with the theme of sporty performance, Audi has combined its two diesel-engine sports cars with highly effective manual six-speed transmissions whose short lever travel allows the driver to shift quickly, easily and precisely. The housings for these transmissions are made of lightweight, high-tech magnesium materials. Relatively long final transmission ratios have been employed to bring the drivetrain in line with the character of the TDI engine.
In light of their high torque values, Audi is equipping both of its new TT models with quattro permanent all-wheel drive. The heart of this system is an electronically controlled, hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch, which is located in the rear of the vehicle for improved weight distribution. This clutch generally distributes up to 85 percent of the engine power to the front axle and 15 percent to the rear axle; in extreme situations it can divert up to 100 percent of the power to either axle.
The overall concept: An exercise in uncompromised sportiness
Consistent efforts to reduce vehicle weight are also part of the efficiency strategy pursued by the brand with the four rings. Both sports cars are very lightweight: the 2 + 2-seater TT Coupe weighs only about 1,370 kilograms (3020.33 lbs) when empty, while the two-seater TT Roadster with soft top weighs roughly 1,415 kilograms (3119.54 lbs). Underlying these low weights is an innovative hybrid body construction developed by Audi. Front components are made of aluminum and utilize Space Frame technology; rear components are made of steel. This solution guarantees that the frame is as rigid as possible and optimizes load distribution between the axles.
The Audi TT Coupe and TT Roadster are dynamic, emotion-packed sports cars. As was the case with preceding models, these cars are impressive for their powerful design, whose dynamic flow continues on into the interior. The cockpit contains multiple nods to the circle motif, and the sports steering wheel with its flat-bottomed rim fits the driver’s hand like a glove. The sport seats are deep-set, providing a sporty seated position and firm lateral support. The backs of both rear seats fold down in the TT Coupe, making the trunk space grow from 290 to 700 cubic liters (10.24 – 24.72 cubic ft). The Roadster (250 liters, 8.83 cubic ft) comes with a practical load-through hatch upon request.
The sports suspension likewise offers extraordinarily dynamic features. The front suspension is pivoted on an aluminum subframe and has a wide track measuring 1,572 millimeters (61.89 inches).
A highly precise rack-and-pinion steering system with a direct steering ratio provides an intimate link between the driver and the road. Power steering with servo assist, which decreases as speed increases, is generated by an electromechanical drive that is even more efficient than a hydraulic pump.
The coil springs and shock absorbers in the four-link rear axle are situated in separate areas. The links are also finely differentiated: The layout of the trailing links, which absorb the propulsive and braking forces, is relatively soft to promote a comfortable ride. The connections to the three transverse links per wheel, on the other hand, are rigid in order to direct transverse forces into the body with precision.
The Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDI quattro and Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI quattro roll on 16-inch, cast aluminum wheels fitted with 255/55 R16 tires. Behind the wheels are large disk brakes with pads that develop large coefficients of friction. The ESP stabilization program supports the neutral to slight understeering feel of the TT-the finishing touch on an overall portrait of exciting dynamics, exhilarating driving pleasure and stability you can count on.
Audi magnetic ride, a high-tech shock-absorber system available as an option, is an adaptive system that resolves the traditional conflict of interests between comfort and handling. A magneto-rheological fluid circulating in the shock absorbers changes the direction of the magnetic particles within milliseconds when electricity is applied; this alters the overall characteristics of the fluid and, in turn, modifies the damping characteristic. The driver can choose between “Normal” and “Sport” programs by flipping a switch.
Equipment makes a statement of refined style
Standard equipment for both of the new TT models reflects the sporty character and refined style of the series. Faux aluminum accents add a shine to gray inlays and various other components in the interior. The sports steering wheel comes with a Nappa leather cover. The climate control system (standard for the TT Coupe) regulates heating and ventilation in response to the level of sunlight. The driver information system and chorus audio system round out the standard equipment.
A wide array of high-tech equipment is available as options, including a highly modern generation of audio devices, electrically adjustable front seats, the adaptive light dynamic cornering light system and two navigation systems with a user interface based on the Audi MMI concept-a cut above the competition.
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Comments (39)
BMW, Mercedes & Audi all have some incredible diesel technology working for them right now. They are about the cleanest, most powerful and highest performing diesels with great milage that you can get today.
This little jewel is something I'm gonna enjoy test driving.
Posted by Ray | February 27, 2008 2:10 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 02:10
actaully the best diesle engines are from PSA peuget/citroen]
but we already have the FWD version in oz
Posted by o | February 27, 2008 2:18 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 02:18
All the buzz surrounding Honda similar endeavors had made me think this was going to start happening soon.
Lower emissions, good torque, quiet operation...
...and these will only get better with more engineering experience over the years to come.
I also think the possibility of using a hybrid fossil- and bio-diesel mix may have much appeal to poor countries, and those with bad history w/ the middle east(US, others).
My $0.02
-that ricer-driving-beaner
Posted by Eddie | February 27, 2008 3:26 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 03:26
WTF is with the photos? Admins, where are .jpg extensions??? Not working correctly with Firefox!
Posted by xxx | February 27, 2008 3:59 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 03:59
Okay why is it we can't get cars like this in the US? I would love to have a car like this that was fun to drive yet got good MPG. Is it really that hard to import a diesel engine into the US?
Posted by Chris | February 27, 2008 8:04 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 08:04
@ Chris
Yes, it really is that hard to import a diesel engine into the US. Emissions regulations in the US are a thorn in the side of every vehicle manufacturer, especially those who'd like to import diesels. It's not as simple as loading european cars up in shipping containers and boating them over here. Urea injection and particulate filters must be added, which run up the cost ridiculously high.
I'd love to have awesome diesels here too. Write your congressman!
Posted by Cheap Car Lover | February 27, 2008 8:31 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 08:31
Chris
It's because, according to the manufacturers, Americans won't buy diesel because they are loud, messy and underpowered. Never mind the fact that VW sells every diesel it can make for sale here.
T
Posted by Teldar | February 27, 2008 8:33 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 08:33
Something to remember, the MPG isn't that incredible. The gallon used in europe is significantly larger than the one used in the US. The 44 MPG is imperial gallons probably, which is roughly 1.2 US gallons, so the MPG is really 36.6 MPG, not bad, but doesn't sound as impressive when one does the conversion.
Posted by Chris | February 27, 2008 8:43 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 08:43
I second the words of xxx. WTF is going on with the pictures on this site?
Posted by annonymus coward | February 27, 2008 9:02 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 09:02
Our US diesel regulations are both hindering the future competitiveness of our domestic manufacturers (who don't have incentive to develop similar technology, as they don't face competive pressure from these engines in domestic markets) and keeps interesting vehicles such as this one from our shores.
This is a real problem from an oil-dependence point of view.
And I echo the comments about the missing .jpg extensions.
Posted by kw | February 27, 2008 9:43 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 09:43
if they released this car in the US I would buy this car tomorrow. Good looks, good ride, Decent power, AWD for the winter, and good gas mileage. WTF
Posted by crawlgsx | February 27, 2008 10:06 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 10:06
Yet another great diesel car we'll likely never see...
Posted by Polynikes | February 27, 2008 10:10 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 10:10
Just wondering if 1,800 bar of fuel pressure is a typo...1,800 bar is close to 27,000 psi. I think the fuel would shoot right thru the piston and out the bottom of the engine block LOL.
Posted by Tom D | February 27, 2008 10:12 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 10:12
I they took that Audi logo off the ass end of it, you would think that you're it's a 350Z.
Posted by Tommy Boy | February 27, 2008 10:55 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 10:55
I know its pretty hard to get an engine certified for the US market but Honda is bringing over their diesels in 09 and it was approved in California. If ANYONE can get a diesel approved in CA, then the companies that "cant" really need to get it together.
Posted by Mike | February 27, 2008 10:57 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 10:57
No typo. Pressure of 1600 to 2000 bar is normal in modern common rail diesel engines. And they have up to seven injections in one stroke.
Posted by Mike | February 27, 2008 10:58 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 10:58
If they took that Audi logo off the ass end of it, you would think that it's a 350Z.
Posted by Tommy Boy | February 27, 2008 10:58 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 10:58
@Tommy:
I'm not seeing it.. other than being a hatch, the rear doesn't reflect a Z, really...
So, acceleration on par with a Mini (which I like), AWD, good handling, enough room inside to feel comfortable, and gas mileage comparable to a Prius. And sexy on top of everything else.
Wrap me one and put a damn bow on top!!
Posted by Tony | February 27, 2008 11:23 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 11:23
"Just wondering if 1,800 bar of fuel pressure is a typo...1,800 bar is close to 27,000 psi. I think the fuel would shoot right thru the piston and out the bottom of the engine block LOL."
No, I doubt it's a typo. I know of many diesel's out there with 22,000+ psi on the fuel injectors.
My huge gripe with Audi? They changed it so you can only get a manual with the V6 TT.
Posted by Remy LeBeau | February 27, 2008 11:34 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 11:34
Chick car, just move along.
Posted by RX-7 Guy | February 27, 2008 11:36 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 11:36
"Just wondering if 1,800 bar of fuel pressure is a typo...1,800 bar is close to 27,000 psi. I think the fuel would shoot right thru the piston and out the bottom of the engine block LOL."
No, I doubt it's a typo. I know of many diesel's out there with 22,000+ psi on the fuel injectors.
My huge gripe with Audi? They changed it so you can only get a manual with the V6 TT.
Posted by Remy LeBeau | February 27, 2008 11:37 AM
Posted on February 27, 2008 11:37
Well isnt that great. Since diesel is now at least 50 cents per gallon more than gasoline, I guess 44 mpg isnt so great afterall is it?
Posted by jfelano | February 27, 2008 12:01 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 12:01
1800 bar is not a typo; the Mercedes common rail systems run at 2200+ IIRC. The pressure is used to atomize the fuel on delivery through the injector tip.
As to whether we'll ever get it, I can always dream. My personal preference would be a TDI swap into a miata, but that's just my personal preference...
Posted by Matt | February 27, 2008 12:27 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 12:27
A car is crap...please next.
Posted by Luka | February 27, 2008 12:46 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 12:46
it's a vw after all... nice diesel engine... but you'll have plenty of non-engine related problems...
Posted by gh | February 27, 2008 12:47 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 12:47
Doesn't look like a 350... if only they could take a good engine like that and throw it in a reliable car.
Posted by gm0n3y | February 27, 2008 2:01 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 14:01
Cool and economical; what a great combo. :)
Posted by TomLeeM/BigWarpGuy | February 27, 2008 2:31 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 14:31
Bout time! I can't wait for the TT to come to the States if ever it does. I love the styling of the mini R8 and it won't be long before more modifications are available for it, jsut look at the options of things you can do to the ALH engine and even the PD is starting to have a lot of choices.
If you want to see why it's so hard to get diesel's in the US look here - http://dieselblog.net/2008/02/5-reasons-american-car-manufacturers-want-diesel-to-fail-in-the-us/
We need to change that though. Flexfuel is such BS.
Posted by Jetta-RTDI | February 27, 2008 2:56 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 14:56
Wow, that's the same low-end torque that my 2002 A6 2.7T develops, although I get it over a wider RPM range. Still, as my ride weighs 3760 lbs I sure wouldn't want to come up against one of these new TTs on the street. I'd love to be able to test-drive one of theseTDIs, just to see what it's like. Audi ROCKS, I couldn't be happier with mine and I'm very glad to see that they offer these new models with manual gearboxes.
Posted by heliomphalodon | February 27, 2008 4:18 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 16:18
The emmissions requirements in Europe are actually more stringent than they are here in the US. The diesel engines being developed there right now are so clean that they spew less polution than gasoline engines from 10 years ago.
The only reason that these cars are not sold here is because the US does not accept the European emission tests and thus requires all cars to be tested. The cost of testing(this isn't limited to just emissions but crash safety and other pecularities) these models in the US is too high relative to the ammount of sales volume these models would generate.
Few enthusiast cars make it over here because of this reason and it is probably one of the reasons why Detroit is still alive right now.
Posted by Cashmoney | February 27, 2008 4:27 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 16:27
@ Cashmoney
Part of what you're saying is true. They do have to test them here and it runs up the cost. But you're wrong about Europe being more stringent on emissions. You're thinking only on the terms of greenhouse gases, which are not regulated at all in the US. There are other more harmful 'pollutants' the US is worried more about. There's a reason there's additional hardware, such a Bluetec, on Mercedes diesels and not on the same car in Europe(which is the only diesel car in the US certified for all 50 states). It's also the reason VW isn't importing diesels AT ALL right now despite them 'flying off the lots'. They're still working on their own urea injection system, and it's going to add quite a bit to the old $3,700 price tag on the cars they used to be allowed to sell.
I want to make it clear I am NOT in favor of adopting European standards on ANYTHING. I want the US to lead the world, not follow anyone's footsteps.
But in both of our arguments, it's still the government's fault.
So, write your congressman!
Posted by Cheap Car Lover | February 27, 2008 5:23 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 17:23
Look like an 350z
Posted by jettto | February 27, 2008 5:24 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 17:24
If VW can do this with a TT, what is holding them back from doing it on a Jetta?
My daily driver is a 2006 TDI Jetta and love it... but it would be the best car in the world with AWD and the new common rail TDI motor.
I just don't understand automakers at times
Posted by Lord 666 | February 27, 2008 6:30 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 18:30
It's not quite as impressive once normalize the 2.0 TT get 31mpg highway and run fine on regular, in fact gets better mileage on 87 at least that's the case with aJetta with the same engine. Diesel cost 13% more here and is 10-20% more costly in the US in general. The TDI is about 40% more fuel economic but the higher cost of fuel lowers that 27% which is impressive if it cost the same as the 2.0. Otherwise maybe not. Oh yeah this performs about the same as the 2.0 a 3.2 TT offers a bit more punch.
Cashmoney:
US Standards are tighter Europe's as Cheap car lover has stated. If you ever go to an European city you will notice the strong ever present smell of diesel or the general lack of it here in the states.
Posted by RX-7 Guy | February 27, 2008 6:56 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 18:56
Chances are that this version of the TT will at some point make it to the U.S. Emissions regulations won't play as big a role as you may think, seeing as this same engine is already slated for release in the summer of '08 in the form of a VW Jetta TDI. Right now Audi is just seeing if they have enough of a market in the US to justify selling the vehicle here.
Posted by Kurios | February 27, 2008 7:43 PM
Posted on February 27, 2008 19:43
Audi will have a few Diesels coming next year. Not sure if the TT Diesel will be available too. Article didn't mention DSG, which is something I really like on my TT.
Posted by Peter | February 28, 2008 1:27 PM
Posted on February 28, 2008 13:27
The injection pressure is reported correctly. My '03 Jetta TDI (ALH) engine develops ~20 kpsi injection pressure while the pumpe duse version intro'd in 2005 ramped the pressure up to near 30 kpsi, similar to the 2.0 TDI found in this awesome ride.....pffft, chick car my foot! Chick magnet is more like it.
PS -- these Audi 2.0 TDIs do NOT have a "gas pedal"...."go pedal" is a betetr term and remember -- never put gas in a diesel :)
diesel on
Posted by qwerrk | February 28, 2008 2:06 PM
Posted on February 28, 2008 14:06
I was very disapointed to hear VW was not planning to offer a Tigeun TDI AWD w/ manual.
If Audi brings in a TT coup AWD TDI with the 6-speed, I'll trade in our NB TDI in a heartbeat.
Posted by Mel | February 28, 2008 5:24 PM
Posted on February 28, 2008 17:24
RX-7: sorry, but regarding your statement "if you ever go to an European city you will notice the strong ever present smell of diesel or the general lack of it here in the states" - all I can say is, sounds like you haven't spent much time in Europe.
Posted by getagrip | November 11, 2009 12:20 AM
Posted on November 11, 2009 00:20