News: 2015 Audi TT Sheds Frills and Gains Performance

2014 audi s8 a8 teaser refresh
Not the 2015 TT, but a teaser of the 2015 S8

The TT has always been one of Audi’s lesser-known performance cars. Mixed in with such cars as the S5, S6, RS5, and S8, many overlooked the TT for Audi’s more practical and equally as entertaining super-sedans or four-seater coupes. However, the TT’s short wheelbase and R8-like lines are irresistible for some.  The 2015 Audi TT is refreshed and looks to be back with a vengeance.

According to numerous reports, the new TT will have a much more sparse and plain interior than did the previous generation. The center stack will be replaced with a few simple buttons for the A/C and heat controls, and two plain air vents will be the only other features in the area. The new TT will also include a retractable NAV screen to add to the clean.  Minimalist look on the inside, that resembles that of the 2015 A3.

2015 audi tt coupe
2015 Audi A3 interior

Although no official dimensions have been confirmed for the new TT, what we do know is that the car will share the new “MQB” platform first introduced on the Mk7 VW Golf. Engines, too, are likely to start with the 2.0-liter 220-horsepower turbo-four for the base model, a tuned 300-horsepower variant for the TTS, and an insane 380 horsepower variant for the TT-RS. Thankfully, a six-speed manual will still be available, but expect an automatic (possibly R-tronic) transmission to be the most popular choice.

Thanks to a principally aluminum structure and the minimalist interior, the 2015 TT will see a significant weight reduction over the current model. Along with an available Quattro AWD system, the TT should be significantly more driver-oriented as well. The increased driver focus also shows through to the exterior, where a mix of R8 and Audi S5/S6 is evident from spy photos.

The 2015 TT looks to represent an appreciated return to the simple, light, minimalist German sports cars of the 1990s and early 2000s. In a world of increased curb weights and automotive technology, Audi’s back-to-basics approach points toward an exciting future for the brand. Expect the 2015 TT to debut officially at the 2014 Geneva Auto Show.

Please enjoy this TFLcar.com video of the 2015 Audi TT’s older sibling, the Audi R8.

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Frank Kosarek
Frank caught automotive fever early in life. Hailing from a long line of car fanatics, Frank was able to recite the year and model of every car that passed him by age five. His passion and love for the automobile have only grown since then. When not thinking about cars, he is reading, writing, learning, or dreaming about them. His area of expertise comes in the realm of German and Italian cars, of which Porsche is a favorite. Frank currently resides in the heart of NASCAR country in Charlotte, North Carolina, with his family. He thoroughly enjoys driving exotic cars in the beautiful Carolina weather.