Up Close: 2009 Audi TTS

While other journalists ogled over Audi's 500-hp R8 TDI concept, I stole some time snooping around the two-door TTS. The cabin has the same rear-to-the-ground feeling of the regular TT, though the two-tone leather in the show car livens things up a bit. It's even wrapped around the inboard side of the footwells. Nice. Like with other S cars, the exterior changes — among them new wheels and custom brake calipers — make for a subtly menacing look. It works until you get to the silver side mirrors, which seem like an unnecessary embellishment. Maybe it was the lighting.

I know I'm not the only one to wonder: Why did Audi modify the turbo four-cylinder for the TTS instead of the TT's 250-hp V-6? Two Audi UK representatives traded emphatic answers, saying the V-6 would have added some 50 pounds over the front axle, which would throw off the car's weight distribution. Plus it wouldn't have been able to make as much torque. Plus it would have gotten worse gas mileage. The list goes on. You get the idea.

More info and photos of the 2009 Audi TTS

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