Audi TT Offroad shows off at Beijing auto show

Audi introduced the TT Offroad concept at the Beijing motor show last week. The company says it comes with a plug-in hybrid drive system delivering 408 hp total, while getting 123.8 miles per gallon -- impressive, but we're guessing not exactly real world.

To get that power, the TT Offroad concept uses the company's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder, making 292 hp and 280 lb-ft of torque. That's connected to an electric motor producing 40 kilowatts and 162 lb-ft of torque. Total twist is rated at 479 lb-ft. Audi claims the show car accelerates to 62 mph in 5.2 seconds, with a top speed of 155 mph. It can cover 31 miles solely on electric power.

The two motors send power to all four wheels though a six-speed dual-clutch e-S tronic transmission. A second electric motor is mounted on the rear axle, producing 85 kilowatts and 199 lb-ft of torque.

The Audi TT Offroad concept is designed to use Audi's wireless charging technology, which uses a plate with a coil and inverter placed on the parking spot. The charging begins automatically when the car pulls in. Audi says the tech is more than 90 percent efficient, and not affected by weather like rain, snow or ice.

Like production Audis, the TT Offroad has three driving modes including EV, hybrid and sport. EV keeps the car in electric-only mode, hybrid uses all three drives when necessary and sport sends maximum power to all four wheels. Audi notes that the AWD system is for slipperier situations and “light off-road use.” In other words, don't take it to Moab.

The TT Offroad looks to get a decent amount of ground clearance, using a MacPherson setup in front and a four-link in the rear. The concept rides on the VW Group's MQB platform with extensive use of steel and aluminum.

The TT Offroad concept is 16.2 feet long, 6.1 feet wide and 5 feet high. That puts it very near the Q3 SUV in size, but the roof is about 3 inches lower.

Inside, the four-seater gets design elements that will carry over to the new TT, including the MMI system, 12.3-inch display and numerous storage and cargo areas. A Bang & Olufsen sound system is installed, with speakers in the head restraints.

By Jake Lingeman