Audi TT-S starts at $45,500

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.

[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.