Besides the regular production versions of the third-generation TT Coupe, Audi had a surprise for us in Geneva today with the conceptual TT Quattro Sport. You can think of it as Audi’s track-focused, GT3 (as in Porsche 911 GT3) iteration of the new TT.
“With our Audi TT quattro sport concept show car, we wanted to demonstrate what the new TT’s technology can do if you take it a step further,” explained Ulrich Hackenberg, chief engineer at Audi. “This car is designed for racing – an extreme driving machine for the motorsports enthusiasts among our customers.”
At the heart of the concept is a newly developed version of the VW Group’s EA888 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four engine twisting out an impressive 414hp (420PS) at 6,700 rpm, thus setting a new benchmark in the 2.0L category with a specific output of 207hp (210PS) per liter. It also delivers a peak torque of 450Nm (332 lb-ft) available from 2,400 to 6,300 rpm, with over 300 Nm (221.27 lb-ft) already offered at only 1,900rpm. The fuel cut-off is at 7,200 rpm.
The four-pot is hooked up to an S tronic dual-clutch transmission and Audi’s permanent quattro all-wheel drive. Tipping the scales at 1,344kg (2,963 lbs) with a 54/46 weight distribution between the front and rear axles, the concept slings from 0 to 100km/h (62mph) in just 3.7 seconds.
To improve handling, Audi’s engineers made changes to the suspension and brought the body closer to the ground, while also retuning the electronic nannies, including the ESC electronic stabilization control that can be partially or fully deactivated.
The showcar features a modified body with a carbon-fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) spoiler package, 30 millimeters (1.18 in) wider wheel arches, a different front grille and 20-inch alloys on semi-slick tires. Inside, Audi stripped the interior of all non-essential “luxury” components, adding Alcantara bucket seats and pull handles, but it did keep the fully digital instrument cluster’s 12.3-inch display.
Audi didn’t say if it plans to introduce a production version of the Quattro Sport, but if it does, it won’t replace the RS.
By John Halas
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