Monday, December 3, 2012

Hot News: Audi to Launch TT 'GT3'

A lightweight, high-performance Audi TT features among three advanced new models awaiting the green light from company bosses.

The exciting variant of the next-generation TT is seen by insiders as an extreme ‘GT3’ performance version to sit at the top of the coupé’s range.

“The TT is an iconic car for Audi and has a very interesting future,” said Wolfgang Dürheimer, Audi’s new head of technical development.

The hot model would be a ‘multi-material’ version of the next TT. It is being designed around a 1000kg kerb weight target, even though it will get a five-cylinder engine, all-wheel drive and a roll cage.

Details of the powertrain remain secret, although the obvious one to use would be the turbocharged five-cylinder unit that will power the next-generation TT RS. In current 2.5-litre capacity, this engine produces 335bhp.

Based on the new, transverse-engined MQB platform, the TT GT3 will save weight with components and body panels made from lightweight steel, aluminium and carbonfibre. Audi could use a new type of injection-moulded carbonfibre capable of forming a component in just two and a half minutes.

Inspiration for the TT GT3, which is thought to be at least three years from the showroom, is understood to have partly come from the 2010 Quattro concept, which used a longitudinal engine layout and part-alloy multi-material chassis construction.

Thanks to: Autocar

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