Filed under: Car Buying, Convertibles, Coupes, Sports/GTs, Audi
Audi TT-S starts at $45,500
Click above for high-res gallery of the Audi TT-S
Audi announced today that pricing for its U.S.-spec TT-S will begin at $45,500 for the Coupe model and $47,500 for the open-air Roadster. The TT-S joins the TT 2.0T and TT 3.2 in Audi's lineup, settling atop the range with a turbocharged, direct-inject 2.0L TFSI engine producing 265 hp @ 6,000 RPM and 258 lb-ft of torque. That's 15 more horsepower and 22 more lb-ft of torque than the TT with Audi's 3.2L V6. The TT-S Coupe also manages to hit 60 mph in an impressive 4.9 seconds while achieving a combined fuel economy rating of 24 mpg. Top speed for both the Coupe and Roadster, however, will be electronically limited to 155 mph. For their money, buyers will also get Audi's S tronic dual-clutch transmission, magnetic ride suspension and the brand's trademark quattro all-wheel-drive system.
If the TT-S is still not fast enough for you, the TT-RS is on its way. While it may not make it to U.S. shores, the TT-RS will pack a 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder producing 340 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, which will be mated to a six-speed manual and quattro all-wheel-drive. 0-60 times for the TT-RS are expected to drop even further down to 4.5 seconds. Expect the price to also go up even further in turn.
Gallery: Audi TT-S
[Source: Audi]
PRESS RELEASE
Audi Sets 2009 MY Prices for the All-New TTS Coupe and TTS Roadster
HERNDON, Va., Oct. 31, 2008 -- Audi of America today released pricing for the highest performing TT models ever brought to market - the 2009 TTS Coupe and TTS Roadster. Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price for the TTS Coupe will start at $45,500 and $47,500 for the TTS Roadster.
"The Audi TTS Coupe and the TTS Roadster are genuine sports cars that provide remarkable driving experiences and striking design," said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president of Audi of America. "When these top-of-the-line models reach dealerships later this year, consumers will quickly discover that TTS also stands for exceptional value compared to its competition in the sports car segment."
Building on TT innovations, the TTS models deliver unparalleled performance with the most powerful engine in the TT lineup, superior traction with standard quattro all-wheel drive, extraordinary shift times with the standard S tronic dual clutch transmission, and enhanced driver control with TTS-specific Audi magnetic ride. Audi will begin selling the TTS models in late 2008.
The ultra-efficient, direct-injected, turbocharged 2.0 TFSI engine rewards TTS Coupe owners with both class-leading acceleration and fuel economy. The TTS Coupe races from 0-60 mph in 4.9 seconds, and achieves a combined fuel economy of 24 mpg. The TTS Roadster offers comparable performance with a 0-60 mph time of 5.1 seconds and a class-leading combined fuel economy of 24 mpg. Both versions of the TTS achieve an exceptional 29 mpg in highway driving and 21 mpg in city driving based on government fuel-economy ratings. The electronically governed top track speed for the TTS is 155 mph.
The new 2.0 TFSI engine in the TTS produces excellent horsepower (265 hp @ 6000 rpm) and exceptional torque (258 lb.-ft. @2500-5000 rpm), while meeting California's rigorous ULEV II ultra-low emissions standards. With that kind of performance the TTS models demonstrate Audi's strategy of offering cars that respect the environment without sacrificing the thrill of driving.
To transfer that performance to the ground, the standard quattro all-wheel drive system has been specifically matched to the TTS to allow for even faster response times. The TTS models also come standard with Audi's advanced S tronic dual clutch transmission with Audi launch control which is capable of 0.2-second shift times and optimized acceleration from a standstill. In addition, new suspension treatments for the TTS models result in heightened driver control and handling characteristics. The TTS models benefit from new lightweight aluminum suspension components and modified suspension mounts resulting in a 10-millimeter lowered chassis. The Audi magnetic ride system, standard in the TTS, has been modified specifically for the TTS models to enhance driving dynamics while still retaining occupant comfort. The system features continuously adjustable damping along with "Sport" and "Normal" modes for further driver control. Audi has also updated the TTS steering system to match the suspension modifications. As with all TT models, the TTS is built with an aluminum and steel Audi Space Frame, which offers high torsional rigidity, better load distribution and is up to 48% lighter in weight than equivalent steel construction.
Of course, TT models have always presented stunning design, and the TTS maintains that tradition. The new models feature xenon plus headlights with Audi's signature LED daytime running lights. In addition, as with all S series models in the Audi family, TTS models feature distinctive characteristics indicative of the S model bloodline. These include larger front air intakes, Platinum Gray grille with chrome optic finish, aluminum optic exterior mirrors, extended rocker panels, Platinum Gray rear diffuser with silver blade, quad exhaust pipes, TTS painted brake calipers with sport-rated brake pads, TTS badging, and a TTS-specific 18-inch wheel with summer performance tires. A unique 19-inch quattro GmbH wheel is also available. The marriage of form and function continues throughout the interior of the TTS with features such as brushed aluminum inlays, a die-cast magnesium flat-bottomed leather-wrapped steering wheel with multifunction controls, aluminum optic S tronic shift paddles, a unique TTS instrument cluster, a driver information system with digital lap timer, a redesigned S tronic shift knob, racing inspired leather Alcantara sport seats, contrasting color stitching and TTS badging throughout the interior. Distinctive two-tone Silk Nappa leather seating surfaces are available as an option.
Reader Comments (Page 1 of 2)
huh 4:08PM (10/31/2008)
IMPRESSIVE 4.9??? HUH?
That little go cart should squirt off the line and be at 60 within 4 or less. If my c63 can get there at 4 and weigh twice as much.
I'd love one of these if they actually put a proper motor in it. Oh yea, that won't happen with poppa Porsche in the wings.
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tankd0g 4:15PM (10/31/2008)
The C63 has twice the horsepower and torque. Funny how the math never lies. Now if they could put that v8 into this Audi...
skant 4:20PM (10/31/2008)
thank you for proving you're just another typical Merc driver...sigh
Ligor 4:37PM (10/31/2008)
not quite a fair comparison with your C63 now is it
but for $10K less a G37x coupe will do just fine - it may take just over 5 sec to get to 60, but the $10k and hte better looking G37 coupe with better weight balance still ices this TT-S out
sorry Audi
IK47 6:09AM (11/05/2008)
liqor, what are you talking about?
TT has never been about performance. It's always been a fancy small two seater coupe with a nice design and nice interior. The base TT with the 200HP engine is already the same price as the G37. You're comparing apples and oranges. Somebody in the market for the TT or TT-S/RS wouldn't even look at the G37.
and for what it's worth, 335i will eat a G37 alive.
Chase 10:56PM (11/01/2008)
The TT-S is actually a lot faster than the stats seem to point to -- this car is faster than both the 135i and C63 around most tracks. That's because of its weight, which is just over 3000 lbs, and its AWD. Its front chassis (like all of the new TTs) is aluminum, so its weight distribution is actually much better than most front-engined cars.
Here's a review of the TT-S versus the base Cayman:
http://viewer.zmags.com/showmag.php?mid=hwdgg&preview=1&_x=1#/page2/
Basically, they say that they like the Cayman's controls and overall experience better, but they also give the impression that the TT-S is actually considerably faster than the Cayman.
In other words, the TT-S is in Cayman S territory in terms of performance. The Cayman S is definitely faster than both the C63 and 135i. In fact, the Cayman S is even faster than a C6 Corvette around a lot of tracks.
Also, just to note, many software tuners (GIAC, APR, REVO) already have $600 flashes for the TT-S' motor, bring it to around 300 hp.
Thus, with that perspective, $45k isn't so bad. Its about the same MSRP as a Corvette and is similarly fast.
Orubasarot 4:15PM (10/31/2008)
I'm looking at those numbers and all I can see is 135i, 135i, and 135i.
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Stumpy 4:41PM (10/31/2008)
You and me both!
Jeff Fields 8:14AM (11/01/2008)
Whenever I see a 1 series on the road, I see poor mans bmw. Might be a decent car but its definitely not a very exciting car to look at and it wont win any awards for turning any heads at the stoplights.
Competition for the TT is: bmw Z4 and mercedes SLK
AZZO45b 7:38PM (11/01/2008)
Poor man's BMW that cost 40K loaded??? I would have no issue driving a "poor-man's" BMW!
Orubasarot 7:48PM (11/01/2008)
I don't mind the tame looks of the 1 series, I get enough tickets in my 3 as it is. I just want the 300hp/300tq twin turbo straight six, without looking like a rocketship.
If they were RWD, I'd be in a Saab turbo wagon right now, completely invisible to cops.
skant 4:19PM (10/31/2008)
is it just me, or does the TT-S not look quite right in red. It's just meant to be black...
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Orubasarot 4:22PM (10/31/2008)
I think it looks totally wrong in all photos. I was at an Audi track event and to my surprise the white TT was actually very attractive in person. The rounded shape just works to make it look like a drop of milk.
skant 4:31PM (10/31/2008)
yeah I saw it in person outside of Venice last year for the first time, and my jaw dropped at how beautiful it is. The pictures really don't do it justice.
Xcountryflyer 4:21PM (10/31/2008)
Audi still hasn't hit the bulls eye with its sports coupes yet. I'm sure it'll drive great, but just not as good as the BMW 1 or 3 Series.
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FSM 4:45PM (10/31/2008)
I still think Audi is way overpriced compared to its competitors. You just don't get much engine for your dollar.
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Chase 11:11PM (11/01/2008)
That's true in terms of hp/$, but not in terms of overall value. That's because Audi uses a different sales model than say ... BMW. BMW makes no money, or even loses some, on a base trim car. The idea is that if they can get you into the dealer with that oh-so-low base price, they can sell you a car with options that actually make them money. You'll basically always have to special order a base trim car from BMW, because they practically never send them to dealers like that.
Sherief 4:46PM (10/31/2008)
Knock 5k off the price tag and hook it up to a proper six-speed manual and we'll talk..
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Patrick 4:57PM (10/31/2008)
Hmm...if I were in the market for an Audi, I would wait for the TT-RS. The exhaust note on that thing should sound awesome (think half Lamborghini Gallardo). If they bring the RS over, I'll consider it. If not, I'll probably end up getting the 135i as my college graduation gift to myself next summer.
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theshooter 9:41AM (11/01/2008)
Why did you even go to college if you can afford to buy yourself a BMW? Or is Daddy or Mommy buying it for you?