All-new Audi TT (2014) for Geneva Motor Show

The all-new, third-generation Audi TT will make its debut at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show next month. These are the first official images and details.

As you can see, the only images of the new TT released so far are design sketches, rather than photographs of the real thing. But even in pen and ink one thing is glaringly obvious – the new, third-generation TT looks very much like the original version, not to mention the current TT.
 

The first Audi TT was launched in 1998, and completely revitalised the compact premium sports car segment. It was lauded especially for the Bauhaus-influenced styling that has turned it into something of a design icon, and practically guaranteed its future classic status.

Audi is unashamedly circling back to this initial success for the new car, saying the coupe’s profile and contours all make reference to the first model – ignoring the current second-gen car altogether.

From the sketches it looks like the nose of the new TT is perhaps a little flatter and squarer – Audi makes reference to a ‘V-pattern’ bonnet complete with four-ring logo, which has been moved out of the grille in a manner similar to the R8. With bold wheel arches and lots of horizontal lines, its family ties are unmistakable.
 

Audi

Aside from telling us about the lights and the interior, Audi is keeping quiet about the TT’s technical specifications – though it’s hardly a leap of faith to imagine it will be built on the Volkswagen Group’s new MQB platform, the same one that underpins the latest Audi A3 and VW Golf.

The engine line-up shouldn’t be too much of a mystery, either – expect an all-turbo choice ranging from 1.8 litres to 2.0 litres for the regular models, with power outputs starting at around 150hp for the entry-level diesel and 190hp for the most basic petrol.

The classic TT 'turbine' air vents now incorporate the air conditioning controls

Audi has already confirmed a new TTS performance model, saying this will feature the usual quad tailpipes. We predict this will use the same 300hp 2.0-litre turbo petrol as the current Audi S3.

Front-wheel drive and quattro four-wheel drive will be offered, depending on power output and specification, alongside both manual and DSG automatic transmissions.
 

The new TT’s headlights feature dividing struts for the LED daytime running lights, mirroring the struts in the air intakes surrounding the single-frame grille.

These will be offered as optional full-LED lights or even with Audi’s brand new Matrix LED technology, which can actively shut down individually to maximise brightness without blinding other traffic.

At the rear the lights take on a similar design, and following the lead of the daytime running lights at the front, at least some portion of them will be illuminated at all times, giving the new TT a distinctive visual signature.

Audi

Audi is talking big talk about the lean interior design of the new TT, which it revealed last month at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show (CES). It has even done away with the central display screen for its MMI infotainment system, fitting a new ‘Audi virtual cockpit’ digital instrument set-up instead.

Classic TT features such as the ‘turbine’ air vents will be retained, but we’re told they now incorporate the air conditioning controls as well (see the gallery above). This is going to be one ultra-modern, techno-tastic sports car.

Pricing, on-sale and full technical details for the all-new 2014 Audi TT will be revealed either at or just before the Geneva Motor Show. MSN Cars will be on the ground from 4 March to bring you all the info.

On Bing: see pictures of the all-new 2014 Audi TT
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Audi reveals 2014 TT interior at CES
Read an Audi review on MSN Cars

By CJ Hubbard, contributor, MSN Cars