21 Oct 05
Is this the next-generation TT? Not quite, but the new TT is likely to incorporate elements of this concept's styling and, if the feedback from Tokyo is positive, Audi is actually considering building a shooting brake-style version. It could be the modern answer to the Reliant Scimitar or Volvo P1800 ES&
In the meantime, this concept is described as a "convention-challenging, technology-laden design study". Inspired by the A4 DTM touring car, the RS Q coupe featured in the film I, Robot and the recently launched RS 4 quattro, it is a sports car that combines the characteristics of a hatchback and coupe.
A new Audi Magnetic Ride adaptive damping system - similar to one fitted to some Cadillacs - complements a fully independent suspension that makes the most of the 246bhp 3.2-litre V6 petrol engine with six-speed manual gearbox. This propels it 0-62mph in 6.0 seconds with a limited 155mph maximum speed.
A spacious cabin has been designed to offer plenty of head and knee room, particularly for rear seat passengers, and a load bay with a maximum capacity of 730 litres.
The futuristic interior combines an "Electric White" pearl effect finish for the centre console, door handles and air vent surrounds, with a high-tech synthetic material for the instrument panel, roof and door trims.
The interior also features a new version of the Multi Media Interface operating system (MMI), with 3-D navigation from a new touch screen monitor, on to which destinations can be "written" using the tip of a finger. A character recognition facility also enables it to read handwriting in a wide variety of scripts and identify characters in the Latin and Japanese alphabets. Destinations and details can also be input via a PDA-style remote control handset.
A chronograph designed using organic light emitting diodes (OLED) is easier to read in adverse conditions than a conventional liquid crystal display (LCD), with information available in analogue and digital forms.
