Autoblog

MTM Audi TT RS packs up to 424 horsepower, 185 mph top speed

Drew Phillips — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Audi

MTM Audi TT RS - Click above for a high-res image gallery

German tuner MTM has a long history with Audi's inline-five. In fact, company founder Roland Mayer helped develop the turbocharged five-banger for the Sport Quattro back in the mid-80s, and MTM produced a 400 horsepower version of the motor as one of their earliest performance packages. Nearly 20 years later the technology and the cars have changed, but MTM is still doing its thing.

Its latest project is Audi's TT RS, which boasts 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft torque in stock trim. MTM is offering three stages of engine packages ranging from 404 to 424 horsepower courtesy of tweaks to the engine control unit and and an upgraded exhaust system. Naturally, the Stage Three kit provides a substantial boost performance, including a top speed of 185 mph and a 0-100 km/h time of just 4.2 seconds. A variety of other upgrades are available as well, including MTM's 19-inch Bimoto wheels, 15-inch brakes with eight-piston calipers, and lowering springs. Follow the jump for the official press release and check out the high-res gallery below.

Gallery: MTM Audi TT RS

[Source: MTM]

Continue reading MTM Audi TT RS packs up to 424 horsepower, 185 mph top speed

MTM Audi TT RS packs up to 424 horsepower, 185 mph top speed originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Nov 2009 19:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis.

Alex Nunez — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Etc., Videos, Audi, Humor

A leopard chills in his Audi TT - Click above to watch the video

You've pretty much achieved Tony Montana status when you can keep a big cat as a pet. But how do you transport Fluffy around when it's time to venture beyond that "The World Is Yours" statue at the homestead? Apparently, the preferred method of this particular leopard-owning baller is to simply load the kitty into the passenger seat of an Audi TT, roll down the window, and head out on the town. (Perhaps a Mercury Cougar would be more appropriate? Maybe a Jaguar?)

Leopards apparently like this as much as a yellow lab enjoys squinting into the wind from the bed of a pickup truck. Seriously. Follow the jump to see for yourselves. Thanks for the link, Charlie!

[Source: YouTube]

Continue reading VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis.

VIDEO: Dogs like trucks. Leopards apparently prefer Audis. originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 01 Nov 2009 16:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Stanford to run driverless Audi TT-S up Pikes Peak next year [w/VIDEO]

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Videos, Audi

Stanford's autonomously drifting Audi TTS -- Click above to view video after the jump

If you read AutoblogGreen regularly, then you already know that Volkswagen and Stanford University have taken their relationship that began with developing autonomous vehicles to compete in the government-sponsored DARPA Grand Challenge competitions to the next level. VW has committed over $5 million to open the Volkswagen Automotive Innovation Lab on Stanford's campus with the intent of taking their research further regardless of whether the government is offering a carrot or not.

The two organizations are kicking off their new commitment to autonomous vehicles in a big way. Already under development is a the third-gen autonomous vehicle will make past DARPA Grand Challenge winners Stanley and Junior look obsolete by comparison. Based on an Audi TT-S, the new vehicle eschews all the outwardly visible hardware and has one expressed purpose: to tackle the Pikes Peak Hill Climb just like a real rally driver, four wheel drifts and all.

While still in the early stages, the team of researchers from Stanford have already performed tests with the autonomous TT-S at the Bonneville Salt Flats where the car was free to roam while being driving at the limit without a driver. They've also reportedly visited Pikes Peak with the car and ran it up the hill, albeit slowly.

Follow the jump to check out video of Stanford's autonomous TT-S being tested, including a nifty little trick where it traces Audi's corporate logo in the salt. It's just a teaser for now, but we gotta admit the idea of watching an empty TT-S tackle Pikes Peak is tantamount to finally getting that flying car we were promised. Thanks for the tip, Marcial

Gallery: Stanford driverless Audi TT-S Pikes Peak Hill Climb car

[Source: YouTube | Photos by jurvetson | CC2.0]

Continue reading Stanford to run driverless Audi TT-S up Pikes Peak next year [w/VIDEO]

Stanford to run driverless Audi TT-S up Pikes Peak next year [w/VIDEO] originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Avus Performance tÜRns Audi TT-RS into 460-hp "Neu-Ur-Quattro"

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 19:59:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Coupe, Performance, Audi

Avus Performance Audi TT-RS - Click above for high-res image gallery

Avus Performance has just whipped the cover off their pumped up Audi TT-RS, a 460 horsepower, matte black self-described "Ur-Quattro" for the new millennium. While it evoking the legendary Quattro Coupe might be a bit of marketing hyperbole, it similarly features a turbocharged inline-five and should perform spectacularly well. Heck, it could probably give the Sport Quattro rally cars a run for their money. We wouldn't dare compare it to the S1, though. Still, this version of the already-hot TT-RS is positively smoking.

Even in stock form, the turbo-five in the TT-RS puts put out a healthy 340 horses, enough to scoot it from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds. By the time Avus finishes tinkering with it, however, their uprated TT-RS produces 460 hp and 472 lb/ft. Credit for the 30% horsepower boost comes via turbo and ECU tweaks, along with a new free-flow exhaust system with racing cats. So-equipped, the coupe's 0-60 time tumbles to just 3.8 seconds and top speed rises to 194 mph. Forget the Ur, that makes it about as quick as the R8 V10 5.2 FSI.

Thankfully, Avus' makeover isn't just confined to the engine bay. The tuner adds adjustable coilovers and a set of gloss black 20-inch Sportec Mono wheels wrapped in chunky 255/30-20 Hankook S1 Evo rubber. Said another way, they ought to do a whole lot more than just look pretty. Handling has been improved, yet so has the ride quality thanks to the adjustable suspension, say company officials. That added tweakability should allow one to maximize performance on track days without totally grenading everyday comfort.

The whole package minus the horsepower boost runs about 9,700 Euro (around $14,300). Avus asks that you contact them for specific pricing on the engine mods.

There's a sizable high-res gallery below and the full press release for your inspection after the jump.

Gallery: Avus Performance TT-RS

[Source: Avus Performance]

Continue reading Avus Performance tÜRns Audi TT-RS into 460-hp "Neu-Ur-Quattro"

Avus Performance tÜRns Audi TT-RS into 460-hp "Neu-Ur-Quattro" originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 08 Oct 2009 19:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi recalls over 10,000 2006-2010 A3 and TT models over potential fuel leak

Noah Joseph — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Recalls, Hatchback, Audi

2009 Audi TT - Click above for high-res image gallery

If you've got an Audi A3 or TT and like to drive it hard, you may want to check in with your local dealer, because a recall notice has been issued that is directly focused on enthusiastic drivers.

The action concerns a spring that holds the fuel tank ventilation valve closed. Under "extreme driving conditions", the spring in question might not be strong enough to prevent gasoline from leaking out. And since that could start a fire, this recall strikes us as rather important.

The vehicles in question include some 10,200 A3s, TT coupes and TT Roadsters built between September 29, 2005 and August 26, 2009. Volkswagen of America will be contacting vehicle owners to notify them of the recall, and Audi dealerships will replace the faulty ventilation valves with an improved design free of charge. Full details in the recall notice after the jump.

Gallery: Audi TT 2.0 TDI

Gallery: 2009 Audi A3

[Source: NHTSA]

Continue reading Audi recalls over 10,000 2006-2010 A3 and TT models over potential fuel leak

Audi recalls over 10,000 2006-2010 A3 and TT models over potential fuel leak originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 05 Oct 2009 18:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 17:58:00 EST

Filed under: Car Buying, Audi

The government, dealers and consumers don't seem to know exactly what's going on with the C.A.R.S. (Cash for Clunkers) program, but Audi doesn't want to lose any momentum and has decided it's the right time to "enhance the deal even further."

From now until the end of August, if you want to swap your clunker for one of 18 eligible Audis, the Ingostadt marque will give you another $1,000 on top of the C.A.R.S. rebate. According to Audi, the allowable models include iterations of the A3, A4, TT, and Q5 from 2008 and 2009. However, there aren't any approved 2010 models, but if you've been thinking about something with four rings on it, August could be your month. Hit the jump for all the details from Audi.

Continue reading Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives

Audi throws another $1,000 onto C4C incentives originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 06 Aug 2009 17:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Review: 2009 Audi TTS is our Orange Crush... but only just a crush

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Audi, Reviews

2009 Audi TTS - Click above for high-res image gallery

The Audi TT is a highly entertaining package -- good looks, great personality, terrific cabin feel, solid handling and a good price. Yet with the TTS here and the TT-RS on the way (well, not for us Americans, but...), the TT becomes something like The Girl Next Door who you just found out has two hotter siblings. That doesn't mean you have to stop loving The Girl Next Door... but you're eyes may have a tendency to wander. Autoblog spent a week with the middle sister who was out to steal our hearts with an upgraded turbocharged engine, brilliant all-wheel drive and a flamboyant paint job. Follow the jump to find out if she kept our attention.

Gallery: Review: 2009 Audi TTS

Continue reading Review: 2009 Audi TTS is our Orange Crush... but only just a crush

Review: 2009 Audi TTS is our Orange Crush... but only just a crush originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 11:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8

Jonathon Ramsey — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST

Filed under: Technology, Audi

Audi's Multi-Media Interface, which is arguably the best of the various all-in-one graphical user interface systems favored, has just got better.

According to Audi, resolution on the system's 6.5-inch screen is getting bumped up to 800 x 480, route calculation will happen faster with a 600 MHz processor, and you can scroll along the route - not just vertically and horizontally - and get speed limit data on highways.

Additionally, the system will also finally charge external MP3 players that are plugged in to the system, song titles will be displayed,

The new A3, TT, and R8 will be the first to benefit from next-step MMI when they arrive in Stateside dealerships in the autumn. U.S. pricing hasn't been announced yet, but you can read about all of the next-gen system's new bells and whistles in the press release after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8

Audi updates MMI system for 2010 A3, TT and R8 originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 30 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi dropping 3.2-liter V6 from 2010 A3, A4 and TT

Damon Lavrinc — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Sedan, Wagon, Hatchback, Audi

2009 Audi A4 - Click above for a high-res gallery

Since the 2009 Audi A4's introduction last year, the number of sedans rolling off dealer lots equipped with the company's turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four versus the 3.2-liter V6 has been nine-to-one. With almost 90% of all A4s equipped with the peppy, fuel-efficient and thoroughly entertaining four-pot, Audi has decided to cease offering the V6 on the A4 - along with the A3 and TT - for the 2010 model year.

"We're not backing away from the V6 strategy," Audi's U.S. Corporate Communications head, Bradley Stertz told Autoblog, "We're recalibrating our mix."

According to Stertz, Audi's rejiggered engine strategy has less to do with the slow-sales of the V6 and more to do with the brand's expanding lineup. With Audi's new supercharged V6 making its way to the States in the new S4, along with the introduction of the TT S and A3 TDI, the 3.2-liter's standing in the engine hierarchy was lessened. And with the 2.0-liter mill delivering the best bang-for-the-buck - not to mention placing Audi in the enviable position of being the only German luxury marque offering a four-cylinder in the U.S. - the automaker's new tactic should continue to pay-off on the sales front.

Gallery: New Audi A4

Audi dropping 3.2-liter V6 from 2010 A3, A4 and TT originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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MTM tunes up the KTM X-Bow and Audi TTS

Damon Lavrinc — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:56:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Convertible, Coupe, Europe, Audi, Specialty

Click either image for a high-res gallery of MTM's creations

MTM tunes all things Audi, so it didn't take long for the firm to tweak the KTM X-Bow (with its VAG-sourced inline-four) and the all-new Audi TTS. Of the two, the X-Bow gets the milder tuning (if that's possible), with the 2.0-liter TFSI four-pot getting a boost in output from 240 to 318 horsepower. Torque rises accordingly, with 310 lb-ft on tap, sent through a modified six-speed manual transmission to the rear wheels. Four-piston Brembos with 305 mm discs are nestled within 18-inch wheels coated in Nokain Hakkapeliita-4 rubber sized 245/40. Although MTM doesn't cite a revised 0-60 mph time, it claims a top speed of 156 mph (one mph more than stock).

For those who are looking for a more friendly daily driver but aren't willing to wait around for the TTRS, the MTM-tuned TTS boasts 380 hp and 364 lb-ft of torque from an upgraded turbocharger that huffs 22.5 psi of boost into the 2.0-liter's four cylinders. A new intake and exhaust manifold is fitted, along with eight-piston Brembos clamping onto 380mm discs, with 20-inch wheels wrapped in Michelin Pilot Sport PS2 (245/30) tires. A 330 hp version is also available, starting at €63,103 ($85k USD), while the full-bore 380 hp package will set you back €73,715 (a cool $99k USD).

Gallery: KTM XBow by MTM

Gallery: Audi TT-S by MTM

MTM tunes up the KTM X-Bow and Audi TTS originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 19:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi to reveal TT-RS Roadster at Leipzig Motor Show

Sam Abuelsamid — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Performance, Audi, Misc. Auto Shows

2010 Audi TT-RS - Click above to enlarge

Audi rolled out the fixed-head version of its new TT-RS a couple of weeks ago at the Geneva Motor Show, but a topless version was nowhere in sight. There's a reason for that: this weekend at Germany's Leipzig AMI show, the automaker will be expanded the stylish coupe with a open-top version.

Predictably, the TT-RS Roadster gets the same 340-horsepower, turbocharged 2.5-liter five cylinder as the coupe, which in this case should get the topless TT-RS to 62 mph in just 4.7 sec by putting the power down through all four wheels. The brakes also get a major upgrade with cross-drilled rotors all around, as does the suspension.

Elsewhere on the Audi stand in Leipzig, the A5 and S5 Cabrio and A4 all-road quattro will get their German premieres. Press release after the jump.

Gallery: Audi TT RS and Roadster

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi to reveal TT-RS Roadster at Leipzig Motor Show

Audi to reveal TT-RS Roadster at Leipzig Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 25 Mar 2009 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva Preview: Audi teases TT RS with superlatives, new high-res photos

Drew Phillips — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:28:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Audi

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi TT RS

We have to admit that we got excited when we saw Audi had officially posted a press release and new photos of the TT RS that is set to make its debut at next week's Geneva Motor Show. After all, up until now we had only received the bare details and a few low-res photos of the car.

The new pictures are great, but we have been left wanting with a press release that is largely devoid of any additional technical or useful details that we were not already aware of. What we have learned, however, is that Audi is really jazzed about the TT RS. The generally conservative Germans seem to be going all out on this one, describing the acceleration as "explosive," the sound as "unrivaled," and the brakes as "stupendous." Audi claims it will need "nowhere near five seconds to reach 100 km/h" (62 miles-per-hour), it will be able to "perform extraordinary feats" and overtaking will be "child's play." Come on, Audi, are you sure you don't want to bring the TT RS stateside? Check out the gallery below and the press release after the jump.

Gallery: Audi TT RS and Roadster

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Geneva Preview: Audi teases TT RS with superlatives, new high-res photos

Geneva Preview: Audi teases TT RS with superlatives, new high-res photos originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 15:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi TT RS official pics, details hit the web

Alex Nunez — Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:05:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Audi

Click above for a gallery of the Audi TT RS

Forget the teasers. Here's the rest of the car. When it premieres in Geneva next month, the Audi TT RS will arrive in both coupe and convertible bodystyles. Both are powered by a 340-horsepower, 331 lb-ft, 2.5-liter turbo five cylinder. The driver rows a six-speed stick, and quattro channels power to all the wheels. 0-62 mph takes under 5 seconds. As the teaser shots hinted, look for more aggressive front and rear fascias, LED driving lamps, and a fixed rear spoiler. As with other RS cars, the brakes and suspension are also beefed up. Inside? Typical good stuff from Audi -- you know the drill. If you missed the engine sound clip yesterday, hit the play button below. You won't be disappointed. Sadly, there are no plans to offer the hottest TT to enthusiasts on this side of the Atlantic. Bummer. We'll drool over the car in person when the festivities get underway in Geneva next month.

Gallery: Audi TT RS and Roadster

[Source: CarScoop]

Audi TT RS official pics, details hit the web originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 21 Feb 2009 14:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva TTeaseRS: Audi dangles first TT RS close-ups, audio file

Alex Nunez — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:58:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Audi

Click above to view Audi TT RS teasers

~~We're not getting the Audi TT RS~~ There's a 50/50 change we'll get the Audi TT RS here in the United States, and frankly, if we don't that sucks. Ingolstadt has released the first "teaser" details on the über-TT, which will get the full dog-and-pony next month at the Geneva Motor Show, and it sounds like a good time waiting to happen.

The TT RS will make "well over" 300 horsepower from its turbocharged 2.5L five-cylinder. Expect it to go like stink, handle like a slot car, and make people write flowery new paeans to quattro. Look for the usual RS cues like monster-sized oval exhaust outlets and even more aggressive intakes up front. As the photos demonstrate, TT RS also sports LED driving lights and a fixed rear spoiler.

Oh, it sounds wicked, too. Just listen for yourselves. We'll be on hand next month to cover the big reveal in person.

Gallery: Audi TT RS and Roadster

[Source: Fourtitude]

Geneva TTeaseRS: Audi dangles first TT RS close-ups, audio file originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 20 Feb 2009 11:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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One million Audi fans can't be wrong

Noah Joseph — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:59:00 EST

Filed under: Audi

2008 was a tough year, but apparently it wasn't equally as tough for everybody. Audi has now reported that it broke through the 1 million unit mark last year, selling more vehicles than it ever has before.

Total global sales in 2008 came to 1,003,400 vehicles - up 4.3% over last year - including 82,000 units in December. But while the American market has typically been a vital region for European premium marques especially, U.S. sales dropped 6.1% for Audi this year, and nearly 10% in December when U.S. sales accounted for less than 10% of the company's global sales. Ingolstadt attributes its sales success to the dozen new models it introduced last year, including the Q5 and A4 (seen above). Thanks to everyone who sent in the tip, and check out the press release after the jump.

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading One million Audi fans can't be wrong

One million Audi fans can't be wrong originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 09 Jan 2009 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi TT RS specs leak out

Damon Lavrinc — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:59:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Audi

Click above for a high-res gallery of the Audi TT RS undergoing testing

The crew from WCF supposedly intercepted a letter en route to German dealers from Audi HQ that gives up the details on the forthcoming Audi TT RS.

As previously rumored, power will be provided by a 2.5-liter TFSI five-cylinder, churning out 340 hp and 330 lb.-ft. of torque. Output will be delivered through a six-speed manual gearbox on its way to Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system, expected to have a healthy rear-wheel bias. The direct-injected mill should provide acceptable fuel economy, while returning a 0-60 time of just under 4.5 seconds.

In addition to the power upgrades, the TT RS will come equipped with 18-inch aluminum wheels, a duo of oval-shaped exhaust tips and an interior swathed in Alcantara and leather. There's no word on whether Audi will ditch the standard TT's magnetic dampers for a more track-focused suspension, and the memo didn't outline if carbon ceramic brakes would be an option.

Expect Audi's Boxster beater to debut late next year in both hard-top and convertible form.

Gallery: Audi TT-RS - spy shots

[Source: World Car Fans]

Audi TT RS specs leak out originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 30 Oct 2008 13:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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PPI tunes the new Audi TT

Drew Phillips — Thu, 29 May 2008 08:59:00 EST

Filed under: Aftermarket, Tuners, Coupe, Performance, Audi

Click above for a high resolution image

We loved what PPI did with the Audi R8, so we expected nothing less when they got their hands on the new Audi TT. This package for the second generation Audi coupe, dubbed the PS, features a wide range of upgrades to the body, suspension, engine and exhaust. Starting with the exterior, PPI developed new pieces with aerodynamics in mind. The new front fascia, side skirts, rear diffuser, and rear spoiler all improve the air flow around the car, and carbon fiber trim pieces are also available. The 2.0L turbocharged inline-4 has been massaged to 245 bhp at 5,100 rpm and an impressive 270 lb-ft torque that is complimented by a new exhaust system with quad tailpipes. Other mods available include sport springs, PPI Formula wheels, sport steering wheel, and a big brake kit that is currently under development. While not as over-the-top as Abt's TT-R, we appreciate the PS TT's subtle OEM look, too.

Gallery: PPI PS TT

[Source: PPI]

Continue reading PPI tunes the new Audi TT

PPI tunes the new Audi TT originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 29 May 2008 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi TT-S to be official car of the Tourist Trophy races

Michael Harley — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 14:02:00 EST

Filed under: Motorsports, Performance, Europe, Audi, First Drive, UK

Click above for high-res gallery of the Audi TT-S

The Isle of Man credits itself as hosting the world's oldest races, the Tourist Trophy (TT). The 32-mile long island, located in the Irish Sea (it's the body of water between the United Kingdom and Ireland), held the first motorcycle and car races back in 1905. Now, for the first time in more than a century, a car sharing the same name as the event has been named the "Official Car" of the event. You guessed it, event organizers have chosen the Audi TT as the "Official Car." It's not just any TT that gets the honor -- it's the hot new 265-hp Audi TT-S. Audi will be supplying eight cars for the event at the end of May. Driven by race officials (yes, at non-race speeds), they will help with the course inspection and other logistics during the week-long event. Oh, we should add, it is a motorcycle race. Doh!

Gallery: Audi TT-S

[Source: Audi]

Continue reading Audi TT-S to be official car of the Tourist Trophy races

Audi TT-S to be official car of the Tourist Trophy races originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Apr 2008 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Audi planning TT and R8 lightweight "Sport" models

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:04:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Europe, Supercars, Audi

There's no denying that Audi is planning more variants of the TT and R8, but most of the speculation revolves around fitting both models with high-output engines to produce RS variants. The TT-RS is expected to house a turbocharged, five-cylinder engine making around 350 hp and the R8 will benefit from some form of forced induction, with either a V8 or V10 mill taking the place of the stock 4.2-liter V8 - not to mention the V12 TDI mill. But what about weight reduction?

According to Inside Line, Audi is considering "Sport" variants of both models, a concept that was executed back in 2005 with the introduction of the TT Quattro Sport, which featured a slight bump in power, revised suspension, Recaro thrones and nixed some of the superfluous material inside. Unfortunately, it never made it Stateside.

The new "Sport" versions of each model would use a similar philosophy, and in the case of the R8, that could mean a boost in power to around 500 hp, limiting some of the creature comforts like heated seats, climate control and stereo, and replacing the hood, engine cover, dash, doors and roof with carbon fiber components. And while Inside Line was speculating, they threw on some carbon ceramic brakes for good measure. All told, that could drop the R8's curb weight by some 200 pounds, dropping its 0-60 time into the high three-second range and paying dividends in the handling department. Inside Line expects both models to make it to production next year as 2010 models, although distribution in the U.S. is still an open question.

[Source: InsideLine]

Audi planning TT and R8 lightweight "Sport" models originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Apr 2008 14:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Geneva 2008: Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:27:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Hybrid, Geneva Motor Show, Europe, Audi

Click the image above for a high-res gallery of the Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro.

Audi has been on a diesel-fueled kick in the last couple of months, first with the unveiling of the R8 V12 TDI concept in Detroit and then followed earlier today by the R8 V12 TDI Le Mans. Both pieces of oil-burning exotica stoke the flames in our diesel-desiring hearts (through compression ignition), but they remain - for the time being - unobtainium. However, Audi maintains that diesel power and driving prowess aren't mutually exclusive, so to prove the point, Audi unveiled the TT 2.0 TDI Quattro. The iconic coupe and roadster are both equipped with a 2.0-liter turbo diesel producing 170 hp and 258 lb.-ft. of torque, with power transmitted through a six-speed manual gearbox and through Audi's legendary Quattro all-wheel-drive system. Puttering along on the U.S. combined cycle in the coupe will net you 44.3 mpg, while the drop top version gets an equally impressive 42.7 mpg.

We've assembled a handful of live pics and press images in the gallery below, and you can read through Audi's press release in full by checking out our previous post.

Gallery: Audi TT 2.0 TDI

Geneva 2008: Audi TT 2.0 TDI quattro originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 04 Mar 2008 19:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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