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What it Is
2009 Audi TTS Preview - 2008 Detroit Auto Show: Move over, Boxster. After ten years -- much of it spent as a performance runner-up -- the Audi TT gets an S of its very own. The TTS, to be debuted at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, brings real performance credentials to the tune of 272 horsepower and 258 lb. ft. of torque. Pricing is expected to settle in at around 60 grand.
Why it Matters
A TT with that kind of street cred is sorta like a preppy boy getting a neck tattoo. Yes, dear, the tattoo reads "5.4"...That'll make plenty of Boxster and S2000 drivers rub their eyes in pissy amazement when they get passed on the road, to be sure. And they said tattoos were for kids and sailors. Seriously, though, the Audi TTS injects a much needed dose of performance to what is already a well-regarded vehicle.
What's Under the Hood
Turbocharging is fun! For the Audi TTS, in fact, it delivers 272 horsepower and 258 lb. ft. of torque worth of fun. That's not all Audi did to the TTS, however. The German automaker is also offering up 18-and 19-inch wheels and a reconfigured engine block. The TTS also comes with Audi's adaptive magnetic dampening system and the S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox. Performance times, as reported by Audi have the coupe getting to 60 mph in 5.4 seconds, with the convertible just a shade slower.
What's Inside
Not much changes inside the TTS, save for bolstered seating and a timer in the driver information system. Just so, you know, you can check on that 5.4 and make sure it's for real...
What We Think
Audi is no longer the ugly sister in the luxury German auto family. A little R8 here, a little S there and whaddya know: looks like Audi's dance card is full.
By Brian Chee
Photo credit: Volkswagen of America
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