2008 Audi TT Preview

First generation TT (Photo: Audi)

For many, 1999 (late 1998 to be precise) ushered in a new design direction in the automotive industry. The then new Audi TT Coupe was considered innovative and unique. The following year, the Roaster graced the market. Because of the car's sensation, designers felt more at ease with their creativity. The TT is truly a marker in the history of the automobile.

For 2007 or according to the latest information, 2008, Audi has severely tweaked the TT. It is wider, longer and sports all-new sheetmetal wrapped around an ASF (Audi Space Frame), which is composed of aluminium and steel. The heavier metal is located in the rear of the car to ensure optimal weight distribution between the front and rear axles.

(Photo: Audi)

Powering the cars, as there will be both a Roadster and a Coupe version, will be familiar Volkswagen and Audi engines. Base powerplant will be the excellent 200 hp turbocharged 2.0L inline 4-cylinder. Mid-range models will sport the 250 hp 3.2L V6. There is a strong potential for the introduction of, shortly after the arrival of the new TT, a pair of sporty versions with 280 hp and one with over 300 hp. Continuously coupled to Audi's Quattro AWD system, transmission choices will be between a 6-speed manual and a 6-speed sequential manual well known as DSG.

(Photo: Audi)

Of particular interest will be the optional magnetic ride damper system. Tiny magnetic particles float around in the fluid inside the shock absorbers. When some voltage is applied to the particles, the damping characteristics are altered in milliseconds. This adaptive system combines high levels of comfort with great handling abilities depending on the driving conditions and the preferences of the driver.

The interior of the new TT is reminiscent of the first generation with a slightly more modern twist. Planned body styles are the Coupe and Roadster with the possibility of a hatchback (Shooting Break concept) sometime after the other two. 2008 Audi TT Preview from (http://www.auto123.com/en/news/car-releases/audi/2008-audi-tt-preview?artid=69416)