2016 Audi TTS Coupe Test Drive

?2016 Audi TTS Coupe?
The most potent of Three all-new models
Audi-TTS-Coupe-LSF

The 2016 Audi TT is all new and comes in three forms – the Audi TT Coupe, an Audi TT Roadster and the flagship Audi TTS which is available only in Coupe form, the subject of our review here.


Audi-TTS-Coupe-Dsh

The styling is new, without losing the appeal of the original TT models. The new design is characterized by the use of innovative technologies that are focused on the driver. Perhaps the most noteworthy and innovative feature is the all-new Virtual Cockpit, which is an entirely digital instrument cluster that revolutionizes driver interaction with the vehicle, replacing traditional gauges and interfaces with a customizable instrument display in a unique, 12.3-inch TFT screen that combines the functions of a central MMI? system with a traditional-looking panel of gauges featuring crisp, clear 3D graphics, including Google based navigation with turn by turn instructions.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-LSD
Also featured is Audi Connect?, offering the latest in MIB-2 infotainment features including 4G LTE Wi-Fi? hotspot connectivity for personal devices, streaming audio, social networking, external voice recognition, over-the-air map updates, and INRIX XD? Traffic.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-Eng
Power for both the Audi TT Coupe and Audi TT Roadster is provided by a 2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve, with valve lift system Turbocharged/TFSI? four-cylinder engine that produces 220 horsepower in a range from 4,500 to 6,200 rpm, while also developing 258 pound feet of torque from 1,600 to 4,400 rpm. The Audi TTS Coupe moves down the road courtesy of a hotter version 2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve, with valve lift system Turbocharged/TFSI? four-cylinder engine that produces 292 horsepower in a range from 5,400-6,200 for an increase of 70 horses over the regular TT Coupe and Roadster, while developing an additional 22, for pound feet of torque for 280 in a range from1,900-5,300 rpm.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-RSD
Motive force from the engines reach the driving wheels through Audi?s Quattro all-wheel drive system, via a six-speed S tronic DCT automatic transmission with steering wheel mounted paddle shifters. A new quattro? all-wheel-drive system varies the delivery percentage of torque from front to rear by measuring the traction coefficient at all four wheels with 150 readings every 10 milliseconds, which for the first time may be controlled by the driver through the Audi Drive Select system. The Quattro system has a rear-wheel power bias when in Dynamic Mode.

The Audi TTS Coupe differs from the base TT Coupe and Roadster with its Platinum Gray Singleframe? grille,TTS Specific side rails, front fascia and rear bumper diffuser, full LED headlamps,LED taillights with dynamic turn signals, aluminum-optic side mirror housings and S model quad exhaust outlets.

The digital HVAC controls eliminate the necessity for a conventional dash console, and integrate fan speed, air vent selection and temperature directly into the center of three central vents, along with the respective heated seat push-button controls into each side vent.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-Nose
Visually, up front, the Audi TTS sports a wider and flatter Singleframe? grille, along with sharp contours spanning the hood, where the iconic Audi rings are now placed. Full LED headlights are now featured as standard fare. Aft, the twin dual round tailpipes are positioned on each side and the rear spoiler is electrically or manually operated. Taillights are also LED with dynamic turn signals, and there are rear-parking sensors.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-Tail
The interior provides fine Nappa leather as well as Audi side assist. Front sport seats provide four-way power lumbar adjustment. Dressing up the cabin, is a three-spoke, flat-bottom, multifunction sport steering wheel with shift paddles, aluminum drift inlays, an aluminum shift knob and a Black leather package for the door armrests and center console.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-Int
My production test version 2016 Audi TTS Coupe wore a Nano Gray Metallic exterior finish, while the interior was done in Black with quilted seating surfaces. The base price was set at $51,900., while the options including the Nano Gray Metallic paint, the Technology Package, Bang & Olufsen Sound System, Fine Nappa leather with S embossing, Red brake calipers and Destination charge, elevated the final sticker to $58,500.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-Trnk
SUMMARY: The Audi TTS Coupe is not just a sporty car, it is a true sports car, capable of delivering stellar performance in virtually any driving scenario. The TTS may be comfortably driven in urban surroundings or securely in race track scenarios.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-RSD
The car performs beautifully in the normal or comfort mode, but is most enjoyable when placed in dynamic sport mode with Quattro engaged. Steering is spot on and instantly responsive, the ride quality is firm, but not punishing and best of all, the TTS adheres to the raod or track surface like glue when pushed in a spirited manner, without a chirp or screech from the Pirelli P-Zero tires. The car?s lightweight thanks to its all aluminum body construction, allows it to be tossed about with gusto.
Audi-TTS-Coupe-Whl
The new virtual cockpit is a revelation that allows the driver to focus on the road, rather than searching around for important desired information. Switchgear is simplified and intuitive, enhancing the pure pleasure of driving. Seats are highly supportive as well as comfortable.

Bottom line, one would be hard pressed to find a more enjoyable sports car than the 2016 Audi TTS Coupe, but a roadster version would certainly be a nice addition to the stable for those of us who refer open cars. The TTS embodies sexy, appealing styling and confidence building handling at a reasonable price point. The 2016 Audi TT is the best yet, but the TTS Coupe delivers a higher performance level that is sure to satisfy the most passionate driver.

SPECIFICATIONS: 2016 Audi TTS Coupe

Base Price: $51,900 (+$9,000 over Base TT)
Price as Tested: $58,500.

Engine Type and Size: 2.0-liter DOHC, 16-valve, with valve lift system Turbocharged/TFSI? four-cylinder engine.

Horsepower (bhp): 292 @ 5,400-6,200 rpm
Torque (ft./ lbs.): 280 @ 1,900-5,300 rpm

Transmission: Six-speed S tronic DCT with steering wheel mounted
paddle shifters.
Drive Train: Transversely mounted front engine / quattro all-wheel drive.

Suspension: Audi magnetic ride suspension
Front – MacPherson strut with aluminum subframe and dynamic axle kinematics.
Rear – Four-link.

Brakes: Power-assisted four-wheel ventilated discs with ABS
and EBD.

Tires: Pirelli P-Zero 255/30 ZR20 92Y mounted on silver painted 10-?Y?-spoke alloy wheels.

Wheelbase: 98.6 inches
Length Overall: 165.0 inches
Width: 72.1 inches ? excluding mirrors
Height: 52.8 inches
Curb Weight: 3,230 lbs.
Turning Circle: 34.78 ft.
Fuel Capacity: 14.5 gallons
EPA Mileage Estimates: 23 mpg city / 27 mpg highway
Drag Coefficient: 0.30
0 – 60 mph: 4.6 seconds
Top track speed ? 155 mph – +25 mph over TT

Arv Voss is a Northern California based freelance motoring Journalist and member and past officer of several noted Automotive Journalist organizations who contributes regularly to a number of national and international media outlets. He reviews not only cars, trucks and SUVs, but motorcycles and unusual wheeled vehicles as well.

More from Our Auto Expert

OAE TV