New Audi TT Adds 1.8 Entry Model, Australian Launch Under Consideration

Audi has returned the entry-level 1.8 litre option to its TT coupe and roadster range this week, joining a line-up that launched earlier this year with a more powerful 2.0 litre engine.

Producing 132kW and 250Nm, the 1.8 turbo four-cylinder petrol engine offers more power than its 118kW predecessor, but the same 250Nm.

Peak torque is now available 500rpm earlier, however, at 1250rpm, and 500rpm longer at 5000rpm.

That improvement in torque delivery, along with the new TT’s lighter design, helps the S tronic six-speed auto-equipped 1.8 coupe model shave its 0-100km/h time to 7.0 seconds - down from 7.2 seconds in the previous model.

In six-speed manual form, Audi claims a 6.9 second run.

Fuel efficiency, on the European test cycle, is listed at 7.0 l/100km.

In the new TT range, the 1.8 model enters beneath the 169kW/370Nm 2.0 litre turbo model that first appeared in 2014, before going on sale in Australia in February.

Australia

Audi has yet to confirm plans for the 1.8 TT in Australia, although a local debut would undoubtedly see the price of entry into the TT range fall below $70,000 before on-road costs.

In the previous range, the 1.8 model opened the line-up with a $69,350 MLP (manufacturer’s list price), but with the new 2.0 litre range already priced from $71,950, it is likely that the 1.8 would move closer to the $65,000 mark.

Speaking today, Audi Australia marketing boss Kevin Goult confirmed that the 1.8 is under consideration for a local launch. 

“We are currently evaluating the new 1.8 TFSI engine’s potential in the current range, but any introduction would not occur before the end of the year,” Mr Goult said. 

MORE: Audi TT 2015 Price & Features
MORE: Audi TT News & Reviews | Coupes