Audi TT: design analysis

Audi has finally unveiled the new TT coupé: we show the main differences with the original model and the design influences of the latest Audi concept cars

The new TT is longer, wider and taller than the original one. At first sight, the most important innovations are the new tail profile, which almost forms a unique volume, and the new front headlights that - in a way different from the previous model - break the "simmetry" with the rear lights design.
The overall body volume has the same proportions of the past TT: the main differences are the extention towards the rear end and a more wedge-shaped profile line.
This way, the new TT has lost one of most original features of the previous model: the perfectly horizontal progress of the waistline and the sills edges.
The rear end has almost lost the third volume: now the rear window and the tail gate smoothly blend into each other visually forming a unique surface, that reminds of other coupes like Porsche 911s.
From a technical point of view, tha main difference is the adoption of the aluminum ASF (Audi Space Frame) that replaces the steel unibody of the original TT.











Audi Concepts influences

As one could easily guess, the concepts revealed in these years by Audi have had a deep influence on the design development of the new TT coupé.



2004 Audi Nuvolari quattro Concept




2005 Audi Shooting Brake Concept


In particular, we find that the Nuvolari quattro Concept, presented in 2004, was used as the basis for the whole front-end redesign, except for the headlights, that are practically identical to those of the more recent Shooting Brake.



For what concerns the rear end, there are not clear influences: the overall design is quite different from the Nuvolari nd the Shooting Brake, and looks like a natural evolution of the previous TT design. With its smooth contours, it contrasts with the side and the font end, crossed by sharp edges and cutlines.

n conclusion, the new TT is definitely a beautiful and well-designed car. We think that improving the original design was an impossible task, since the car was already perfect in its form. Audi designers have decided to go for a more aggressive look and to use some of the recent Audi styling cues, like the radiator grille and the sharp line that goes through the side of the car.
This way, the TT looks more integrated in the current model range.
Anyway, we expect to see the new TT on everyday road to know if another design-miracle was made!