Audi TT has remained remarkably fresh since its 1998

Although the Audi TT has remained remarkably fresh since its 1998 release, the recent announcement of a restyled coupe for 2007 is right on time. Our first glimpse came at the auto show earlier this year, and it appears that the styling is a success. Meanwhile, the new Audi TT tech specs are trickling out, and enthusiasts are salivating.

Audi says the standard turbo 2.0 stays, still making 200hp. Uplevel models will have 250 horses under the hood, courtesy of the 3.2-liter V6; Quattro all-wheel-drive comes with this engine, too. Two types of transmissions will be available, too–a standard six-speed stick-shift, or a dual-clutch “S-tronic” auto-manual that changes gears in 2/10ths of a second. So equipped, Audi claims the 2.0T does 0-to-62 mph in 6.4 seconds; the V6 is 7/10ths swifter.

Extensive use of aluminum accounts for a low weight of 2,772 lbs. for the 2.0T TT and 3,102 for the 3.2. Exterior dimensions exceed the old TT’s; the 2007 is 5.4” longer and 3.1” wider, although only .2” taller.

Interior room is upped in every measure as well. Stylistically, the 2007’s cockpit is actually less avant-garde, although every bit as high-tech and high-end. Note the flat-bottomed steering wheel.

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Also meriting mention is the magnetic shock absorber system optional on the new TT. Speed-dependent power steering is standard, as is ESP with a sport setting. Really remarkable is the rear spoiler, which retracts under 50 mph.

Outisde, the Audi trademark shield grille works better here than in any other application. Overall design is less Bauhaus than before, although just as austere.