Third-generation Audi TT makes Malaysian debut
The third-generation Audi TT has officially arrived in Malaysia, making it the first model to be launched by the brand’s newly-established national sales company Audi Malaysia. A division of Volkswagen Group Malaysia, Audi Malaysia takes over distributing and marketing of Audi vehicles in the country, with Euromobil now focusing its efforts exclusively on retail and service.
Underpinned by the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, the transverse-engined TT is being offered to the Malaysian market in a single 2.0 TFSI FWD format. Equipped with technologies such as Audi Valvelift and dual injection, the 1,984cc EA888 powerplant generates 230hp and 370Nm. Mated with a 6-speed wet dual clutch transmission, the TT makes the century sprint in 5.9 seconds and has a limited top speed of 250kph. Fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 6.3 l/100km.
Sporting the familiar silhouette carried since the first-generation TT, the new Mk III iteration measures 10mm shorter than its immediate predecessor but has a longer wheelbase, thus shortening its overhangs and creating a more aggressive stance. Up front, Audi’s signature single frame grille dominates the fascia but made broader and flatter to create a wider-looking stance. Over at the rear, a retractable spoiler deploys at speeds above 120kph to generate greater levels of downforce.
Inside, the TT’s 2+2-seating cabin adopts a minimalist approach. Unlike the case with many premium and indeed even mainstream cars of recent times, the TT’s dashboard notably lacks a centre screen, and that is because all variants worldwide come standard with what is officially dubbed the Audi virtual cockpit – in essence a 12.3-inch hi-res LCD display serving as a virtual instrument cluster. It is linked directly with the car’s MMI infotainment system and its display scheme is fully customizable by the driver to his or her liking.
Like all current Audi models, the new TT also comes equipped with a wide range of electronic features including a start/stop system with energy recuperation, electronic stability control (ESC), traction control (ASR), electronic brake force distribution (EBD), electronic differential lock (EDL), active parking aid plus with selective display and Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Steering assist is electric and speed-sensitive.
The Audi drive select system also comes standard on the new Audi TT, allowing drivers to control the engine characteristics and the steering assistance to suit their specific styles, choosing between comfort, auto, dynamic, efficiency and individual modes. In efficiency mode for instance, Audi drive select influences the air conditioning and the start-stop system accordingly to consistently ensure the best fuel consumption rates.
Pricing of the new Audi TT starts at RM284,900 with a palette of cost extras, such as 19-inch alloy wheels, S-line body kit, and LED headlamps available as customization options.
