What Car? Q&A - When will the new Audi TT arrive?

Q: Can you tell me when the new Audi TT is due to be launched and what the specification is likely to be?
Neil Cornwell


A: Audi is keeping details of the replacement for its current style icon very close to its chest. It is likely to go on sale in September 2006, although an unveiling could take place earlier next year. No official pictures have been released but we have a computer-generated image, which follows Audi's current design direction and gives some idea of how the new car could look. The new TT is expected to be slightly bigger than the current version.

The car has been spotted in testing, but Audi is keeping the exact design and specification under wraps. It is expected to continue the current trend of the distinctive Audi trapezoidal front grille. Critics of the current car cite the slightly dull handling and uninvolving drive, so expect Audi to respond with a more driver-oriented car.

No engine details have been discussed but we expect the 1.8-litre turbocharged engine as used in the current car to be dropped. Instead the 2.0-litre FSI turbo unit from the Golf GTI could feature, alongside the 3.2-litre V6 used in the current car.

A diesel engine is also rumoured to be under consideration and, in view of the performance of today's diesel engines, this is a distinct possibility, although it will probably not be available at launch.