23 October 2015
Drive is smoothly engaged, and the highway beckons. The TTS 2.0 TFSI engine releases its 221 kW smooth and steady. The 6 speed S tronic direct-shift gearbox (DSG) transmission knows exactly when to select the next gear, and has it pre-selected before you need it. Nudge the lever into Sport mode, and accelerate.
The symphony released is just music to the ears. The exhaust note increases enough to leave you grinning. In a blink, you have reached motorway cruising speed and are happily on your way to your destination in style.
The TTS transfers its power to the road via Audi’s Quattro permanent all-wheel drive, which is fitted with multi spoke, 19inch alloy wheels and the dynamic Audi Drive Select (ADS) handling system as standard. Progressive steering varies the steering gear ratio according to the steering wheel input, and torque vectoring compliments the work of the Quattro drive system at cornering performance limits.
The new TTS is refined, comfortable and quiet on the road, while still managing to exhibit the dynamic qualities expected of a hi-tech sports car. The ride height sits 10mm lower, thanks to the standard Adaptive Electronic Damping and Audi Magnetic ride suspension features. The lower weight of the vehicle contributes toward reducing its fuel consumption to just 7.1 ltrs per 100km, helping it to reach 0-100km in just 4.6 seconds.
Build quality is strikingly high class with fit and finish, and all materials reflecting the highest quality. A quick glance at the interior and you may spot a few new changes with this model. The dashboard is absent of a central multifunction display, and there’s no CD slot or radio unit. USB connections in the front compartment keep the mp3 player hidden away, whilst heater and air con controls blend into the vents, further minimising the extra placement of dials and knobs.
The huge 12.3 inch colour screen that sits directly in front of the driver is a touch of brilliance. Audi calls this the ‘virtual cockpit’ and the display can be configured to provide requirements that meet the driver’s individual preferences. These include an analogue or digital gauge display, a navigation screen with 3D maps that can take up whole or part screen, and a special S view mode, in which a large tachometer becomes the centre of attention.
Safety and security are paramount, helping to maintain peace of mind on the roads. The TTS reassuringly incorporates ESC (electronic stability control), multiple airbags, anti-theft alarm with interior surveillance and immobiliser. Optional selections include ‘Park Assist’ with parking aid, selective display, and parallel park assist. Absent from the mix is the reversing camera. Not a deal breaker, but more a luxury we have come to expect in vehicles these days.
Of course, like many 2+2 sports cars, the Audi TTS 2015 is design to be compact and so it’s not the ideal family car. Adults will struggle to squeeze in to the back seat, and the glove box doesn’t add much extra in the way of storage. If you’re happy to fold the seats down though, the vehicle nevertheless transforms in to a practical hatchback with added street cred.
The TTS comes in at $122,900 whilst the Roadster starts from $127,900.