Audi is ramping up the image of the TT with a new 3.2-litre six-pot and
completely new transmission technology. Will 250bhp, a fancy gearbox and 4WD
make it a true sports coupe or will the car not truely become the sum of its
parts.
The new Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmission is a six speed 'box that uses
an integrated twin multi-plate clutch with a new control system that allows two
gears can be engaged at the same time. During dynamic operation of the car, one
gear is engaged. When the next gearshift point is approached, the appropriate
gear is preselected but its clutch kept disengaged. The gearshift process opens
the clutch of the activated gear and closes the other clutch at the same time.
The gear change takes place under load, with the result that a permanent flow of
power is maintained and hopefully will remove the lag that is present in so many
semi-automatic systems. It's a technology that dates back to 1985 when it was
first tested in an Audi Sport Quattro S1.
Gear shifts are controlled automatically or means of the gear lever in the
manual gate or the standard-fit shift paddles on the steering wheel.
The exhaust system has also been redesigned to give the sporty sound sought
by so many enthusiasts. Using a system more familiar on Ferraris, the exhaust
features a flap that is opened or shut depending on engine speed varying the
rortyness depending on engine speed.
The Audi TT 3.2 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds, whilst
the top speed is governed at 155mph/250 km/h.
The car will be launched to the public in mid-2003.
Links: [links]Audi|audi[/links]
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