The Audi TT is about to go through a significant makeover as it transitions to an electric vehicle after more than 20 years on the market. The TT nameplate will be applied to an opulent four-door coupe that will sit below the Audi e-tron GT, the brand’s flagship model, rather than a compact, reasonably priced sports vehicle.
When the reinvented car goes on sale, the nearest competitors will be the BMW i4 and the potential electric version of the Mercedes CLA. This new “emotional model has apparently been in the works for some time, and wants to surprise just as much as the original TT did back in the late 1990s.
In This Article...
Is the Audi TT’s final year 2022?
Hear that old-time music? It is an outstanding performance. The five-cylinder engine is a foundational pillar of the emotional connection to the Audi Sport brand and has strong historical origins in the DNA of Audi. The 5 cylinder engine has won several races in motorsports, including the fabled 24-hour race at the Nuerburgring and rallies on tarmac and in every rally course in the globe. Due to the odd number of cylinders, and more specifically, the firing order of 1-2-4-5-3, the Audi five-cylinder engine’s sound is unmistakable and presents a symphonic rhythm with deep tone characteristics. It has even received the “International Engine of the Year Award” nine times in a row since 2010.
The legendary engine, which has a long history dating back to the Ur-quattro coupe from the 1980s and has only been featured in two U.S. market Audi products in recent yearsthe Audi TT RS Coupe and RS 3 Sedanremains one of the brand’s more potent engines with 394 horsepower and 354 lb-ft of torque, enabling the TT RS Coupe to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 3.6 seconds.
The first Audi TT RS had its global debut in 2009, but until Audi of America took a stand to bring the car to the U.S., it was only a dream to drive on the roads here. In 2011, Audi of America would display a signed petition on Facebook to bring the first generation TT RS to the U.S. market.
Following the success of the social media campaign, Audi of America produced a small number of highly collectible TT RS models in a limited quantity for just two model years, 2012 and 2013, all of which were properly equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, the last manual transmission offered in any Audi RS-model globally.
The 2022 Audi TT RS Heritage Edition and the 2022 Audi TT RS model are anticipated to go on sale in the U.S. toward the beginning of 2022. The TT RS celebrated its 10 year anniversary since its introduction as a 2012 model year in the US market. The TT RS is the last model year for the TT RS in the U.S., but the model will live on for some time in other international markets.
The limited edition model honors the success, performance, and extensive history of the legendary five-cylinder engine for the Audi brand, which will continue to be available once the brand-new RS 3 goes on sale in the United States next summer. It is certain to become a sought-after model for enthusiasts and collectors alike.
Is the Audi TT dying?
We experienced a sense of closure while reviewing the redesigned Audi TT S. Audi was rumored to be considering the future of the tiny coupe at the moment. We now know exactly what will take place with it. The end of the TT as we know it was officially announced this week at the German company’s annual general meeting in Neckarsulm. However, a completely electric vehicle will take its place. Audi AG’s Chairman of the Board of Management, Bram Schot, has the following to say:
“We now make decisions about which ideas from our innovation exchanges we want to execute and which ones we don’t at an earlier stage. Because being focused also means omitting things. Take the Audi TT, for instance. This young, sentimental sports vehicle has been a part of our product lineup for 20 years, both as a coupe and a roadster. We’ll switch out the TT in a few years for an emotional new model in the same price range: an electric vehicle.
There were no other details provided after that. The EV replacement might not even be a coupe; earlier rumors stated the next TT will be a saloon, but Audi later disputed those claims.
The TT will at least continue to exist in its current form for a few more years as it just underwent a facelift. Due to its new gasoline particulate filter, even the inline-five powered TT RS that we examined this week can be purchased until at least January 2021.
How about the R8, the TT’s older sibling? It has long been assumed that it will also vanish and then reappear as an EV, but Schot claims that we don’t yet know what will become of it.
“As I stated, concentrating also entails excluding. Take the sports vehicle R8, for instance. Do we require a replacement powered by a combustion engine? Does this support our mission statement? He said that the conversation will provide us with an answer.
The ambitions of Audi subsidiary Lamborghini, which is now working to hybridize its upcoming lineup of supercars so that it may keep its naturally-aspirated V10 and V12 engines, may be discussed.
Will the price of an Audi TT rise?
The first-generation TT still looks modern 20 years after it initially went on sale, which is a credit to Audi’s ageless design. The 3.2-liter V6 engine, despite the limited-run Quattro Sport model, threatens to become the most sought-after of the many available in the classifieds.
With adequate performance, Audi’s renowned Quattro all-wheel drive, and surprising practicality for a sports car, the TT was at its most powerful when a V6 was under the hood.
Since prices have been constant for a while, specimens kept in good condition are probably going to start appreciating in value. The greatest versions can cost up to 16,000, with prices starting at 3,000.
Will a new Audi TT be released?
- Audi announced today that the TT RS will stop being sold in the United States after the 2022 model year.
- The 2022 TT RS Heritage Edition adds five distinct color schemes to Audi’s sports vehicle, each of which pays homage to an Ur-Quattro paint scheme from the legendary 1980s.
- The Heritage Edition comes with distinctive 20-inch, five-spoke wheels and will only be produced in a total of 50 pieces, 10 of each color specification.
UPDATE 12/20/2021: Audi announced that the starting price for the 2022 TT RS Heritage Edition was wrongly reported in the initial release and would now be $86,395 instead. The amount is almost $4,000 more than was initially estimated.
The TT RS’s final model year in the United States will be 2022, and Audi will send the small performance coupe out on a high note with a Heritage Edition that will only be produced in 50 examples. Fortunately, the turbo five-cylinder from the TT RS is still available in the RS3, and while the TT and TTS will continue to be sold in America for the time being, we anticipate that their days are numbered as well.
The TT RS Heritage Edition will come in five color schemes, each with 10 units, that are reminiscent of the paint treatments used on the fabled Ur-Quattro from the 1980s. Alpine White with Ocean Blue leather and Diamond Silver stitching or Stone Gray with Crimson Red leather and Jet Gray stitching are the ones that stand out the least. Malachite Green with Cognac Brown leather and black stitching, Tizian Red with Havanna Brown leather and Jet Gray embroidery, and the more elegant Helios Blue with Diamond Silver leather and Ocean Blue stitching are all options for those seeking to stand out.
Are Audi TT repairs expensive?
During the first ten years of use, an Audi TT will require roughly $9,644 in maintenance and repairs.
This is $2,677 cheaper than the luxury convertible model industry average. Additionally, there is a 27.72 percent probability that a TT will need a significant repair at that time. Compared to comparable automobiles in its sector, this is 11.84 percent better. The following graph shows how these expenses and the likelihood of repairs will rise over time.
Share
Are Audi TT vehicles dependable?
The Audi TT was initially released in 1998 and is continuing in production today. The TT, which is currently in its third generation, features a 2+2 seating arrangement, impressive athleticism, and a powerful turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that produces 228 hp and has the ability to accelerate the vehicle to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds, in part because of the Quattro all-wheel-drive system. But how trustworthy is the TT really?
America claims. According to J.D. Power, the 2021 Audi TT gets a reliability rating of 3.5 out of 5. There are currently zero reported complaints on Car Complaints for the current generation of the TT, which is from the 2016 model year and on. That’s pretty good, considering you may have once thought that an Audi would probably spend more time in the shop than it does on the road. Power, which is considered “above average in their terms.
Which TT model should I buy?
As the least expensive option that still comes with a ton of equipment, the Audi TT 40 TFSI Sport is our pick as the greatest value option because it combines the entry-level trim with the ’40’ engine, a 2.0-liter petrol with over 200hp, making it powerful enough for almost everyone.
If you drive a lot of miles on the highway, opt for a 2.0 TDI Ultra diesel vehicle because it can get more than 60 mpg in fuel efficiency and is even rather quick (0-62mph takes just over seven seconds). Although it doesn’t have the smoothest engine, it’s still worth considering for drivers who desire a stylish, elegant vehicle with extremely low gasoline expenditures.
The sporty TT 45 TFSI S line isn’t as quick or potent as the high-performance TTS, but it’s not as far off and is still enjoyable to drive. This variant is a decent value performance-oriented option because there are no TT models marketed toward sports car enthusiasts.
Will the Audi TT go down in history?
Sometimes a car is just a car. By that, we merely imply that they are cars according to the dictionary’s definition. On the other side, certain vehicles are legendary. Whether in terms of performance, road handling, or, in the case of the Audi TT, design. These vehicles stand apart from the rest of the automotive landscape and get widespread acclaim in the process. These vehicles are the ones that breathe new life into the automotive industry. They push the envelope and demonstrate what is possible.
In the late 1990s, the Audi TT was a vehicle that completely blew our automotive minds. It appeared to have traveled from the future. It was unlike anything else because it was clear, uncomplicated, perfectly balanced, and clean. Given how far it deviated from the standard, it didn’t even resemble a typical Audi. When it first came out, it was only offered in left-hand-drive configuration. However, the desire to acquire one was so intense that many owners brought them to the UK before the right-hand-drive model was available. Over twenty years later, we still feel the same need for the car we had to have. True to its definition of a modern classic, the Audi TT. Additionally, it’s still a reasonably priced automobile to purchase, so the time is unquestionably now.
An introduction to the Audi TT
The Audi TT concept debuted at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1995, and the TTS roadster concept debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show the following year. It was the result of design research done at the Volkswagen Group Design Center in beautiful California. The concept was created by J Mays and Freeman Thomas, who drew design inspiration from vintage Auto Union vehicles. The body was simple and streamlined with thoughtful design elements throughout. Nothing was excessive; obviously, less was more.
The concept was well received by the media, although there was some skepticism about how much the automobile would change to meet manufacturing requirements. After all, during this transformation, the design and purity of a concept automobile are sometimes lost. There was a lot to deliver after Audi made promises about the production vehicle, including that it would be a 2+2 or a roadster, that it would be reasonably inexpensive to construct (due to sharing the Golf’s base), and that it would be a sports car that could be used on a daily basis. But Audi succeeded.
The legendary Isle of Man race and vintage NSU models served as inspiration for the naming of the production TT, which debuted in 1998 and was absolutely gorgeous. Very little of the concept automobile was lost. In actuality, the addition of a rear quarterlight was the only significant modification. It was a concept car for the road other than that.
The 1.8 20V turbocharged four-cylinder engine that drove the TT offered 180 or 225 horsepower. Additionally, customers could choose front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive using Audi’s renowned Quattro system. It was a swift, powerful vehicle with plenty of grip and composure. Despite some controversy, it was a true driver’s car.
Due to a design defect, several early automobiles were engaged in collisions. Due to the lack of a rear spoiler, the TT’s rear became light at high speeds, which led to a loss of traction and accidents. Audi fixed the problem by swiftly recalling all TTs and installing a rear spoiler. Ironically, those cars with no spoilers are now the most expensive since collectors value them as true rarities.
The TT would later add a few more cylinders, see two model changes, and solidify its status as a legend within the Audi lineup. This is the automobile to buy if you want a sporty vehicle that you can use without much sacrifice on a daily basis.
What are prices like?
The early four-cylinder variants are the ones we’re concentrating on here (the TT didn’t have six cylinders until 2003). The earliest TT is, in our opinion, the purest and most authentic model. the one that closely resembles that 1995 concept automobile.
The good news is that you can get behind the wheel for very little money if you’re interested in a TT. 750 will easily purchase a 180 horsepower 2+2. You can ride in a roadster for $1,000. They are currently quite affordable. But there is a warning. A inexpensive car will have a lot of miles on it, be a little beat up, and, if it has a service history at all, it won’t have a good one.
Instead, spend twice as much, or about 2,000, to buy a good, well-maintained, unaltered early TT 180bhp. Consider 2,500 for a respectable roadster. It’s interesting to note that you should up the price by at least $500 if you can find a coveted “no spoiler” TT.
Budget anywhere from 4,000 and over if you want to purchase the best of the best. The vehicles in this category will have minimal mileage (less than 50,000), be in superb condition, and proudly display a thorough service history. But even if these are the best vehicles available, paying this much money shows how committed you are to excellence.
If properly maintained, Audis of all varieties maintain their mileage well. As a result, it’s not a bad idea to think about a TT with up to 100k on the clock. If you set up about 3,000, you may purchase an early 225bhp car with between 75 and 100k miles on the odometer. This strikes our opinion as the ideal balance between a minter and a car you won’t be afraid to drive.
Why should I buy one?
It is a design icon, which simply means that it is a significant automobile. The TT will continue to be the subject of books for many years to come, will be studied in design schools by future generations of automotive designers, and will always have a devoted and ardent fan base. It’s a significant vehicle in automotive history.
But even more than that, owning one is a beautiful experience. It’s incredibly enjoyable to drive, comfy, safe, and somewhat functional (for a sports car, you’re not moving a wardrobe with it). The TT is indeed one of those exceptional vehicles that makes you fall in love with driving all over again. Even in 180bhp form, it has plenty of power and can almost telepathically perceive the road’s undulations. It is sharp and straight. It’s just a joyful, enjoyable car.
It also has a classic design. one that always appears contemporary and fresh. This makes it challenging for the uninformed observer to appreciate it. Nobody would question your income, even if it were $100,000 a year, if you parked a 2,500 TT in the parking lot. It’s not just an old car; its design defies time. It almost like a sculpture on wheels. Not many automobiles can make that claim.
How long until I see a return?
Due in large part to the fact that Audi produced a large number of them, the TT is currently at the very bottom of the depreciation curve, and it will be some time before things start to increase. But that’s okay since you purchase a TT because you want one, not because you want to invest in one. What you put into it will come back to you. Purchase a 750 example, and you might make that investment back. Spend a few thousand dollars, maintain the TT in the manner to which it has grown accustomed, and you won’t lose any moneyyou might even turn a tiny profit.
But as we’ve said, the TT isn’t a vehicle to buy for investment purposes. Certainly not financially speaking. Instead, the TT’s time has come because original, spotless, well-maintained specimens are still available for a reasonable price. These vehicles will become more difficult to locate over time. Get one now before it’s too late.