The Audi TTS has been named as the official car for the 2008 Tourist
Trophy (TT) Motorcycle Races.
This is a double coup since it means that the the new Audi 272PS TTS
will debut in Britain.
Peter Duffy, Audi UK’s head of marketing, commented: "Having been
supporters of the British Super Bike championship in recent years, we’re now delighted to be associated with the Isle of Man TT races and to be able to play an active part in this world famous event.
"The Isle of Man held the very first Tourist Trophy event in Britain and became an integral part of Audi’s heritage in its days with NSU. We look forward to writing the next chapter in our company’s history with the public showing of the new Audi TTS on the island."
The Isle of Man is hosting the 2008 TT races from May 24th until June
6th.
Audi has announced its prices for the TTS Coupe and Roadster.
British motorists can expect to pay £33,380 on the road (OTR) for the coupe, while the Roadster will cost £35,380 (OTR).
Both models offer six-speed manual or optional S tronic transmission and standard magnetic ride adaptive damping.
They also boast a top speed of 155mph and can do 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds.
"The most extreme production TT to date highlights its capabilities from the front through newly designed bi-xenon headlamps incorporating trademark Audi LED strip daytime running lights, a redesigned front apron incorporating larger air intakes and aluminium-look door mirror housings," Audi said.
The new models also offer 18-inch alloy wheels, which can be upgraded to 19-inch 5-spoke star alternatives for £750.
Audi is hoping the TTS Coupe and Roadster will be a hit with motorists looking for a new high performance vehicle this year.
The first joint What Car? and Thatcham award for vehicle security has been awarded to Audi.
Based on Thatcham’s New Vehicle Security Ratings (NSVR) and New Vehicle Security Assessment (NVSA) schemes, the prize recognises the huge effort manufacturers have made toward anti-theft technologies.
Thatcham’s vehicle security manager, Mike Briggs, said: "Audi is without doubt the best manufacturer for vehicle security over the last 12 months.
"Nevertheless, the NVSA results show how committed the most progressive manufacturers are to further improving vehicle security and offering better security solutions for their customers."
Audi scored the most points across the door and ignition lock effectiveness, laminated glass, marked parts, secondary mechanical immobilisation systems and alarm features. These are fitted to the A3, A4 (excluding the cabriolet), TT, Q7, A6 and A8 models.
Audi has celebrated the fact that its all new TT 2.0 TFSI has been named the best coupe by WhatCar? magazine and described this as the "first step towards matching its predecessor’s five consecutive wins".
The new TT was also voted the best coupe at the annual Top Gear awards.
Judges at the WhatCar? awards described the new model as a "proper sports car", saying it is lighter and quicker than the previous version.
"From being a car that sold on style, it’s become a thing with real driving talent. The good news is that you still get the Bauhaus looks and tremendous quality as well," the judges explained.
Jeremy Hicks, director of Audi UK, said: "The original TT raised the bar in the coupe class back in 1999, and as a result gave rise to some very impressive competitors, so I’m particularly delighted that the team at WhatCar? feels this completely new car has thrown down the gauntlet yet again."
The new TT’s updated body, utilising 69 per cent lightweight aluminium content, has freed up the car’s two-litre turbo engine, according to Audi.
A magnetic, ride-adaptive damping system has also been incorporated into the vehicle’s chassis, delivering "optimum balance and composure".
Read more
No Comments