INGOLSTADT, Germany — After showing a diesel concept of its R8 supercar in Detroit, Audi is bringing diesel to the sports-car market with the TT 2.0 TDI. Audi claims to have the first diesel sports car with its unique package that combines the TT's iconic sloping roof line and respected handling with a fuel-sipping engine.
Making 170 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque, the diesel TT isn't exactly a rocket. The coupe is capable of reaching 60 mph in less than 7.5 seconds and hitting a top speed of 140 mph, while the convertible is slightly slower. The diesel's standout stats don't come from performance, but efficiency. Both coupe and convertible average more than 42 mpg.Due to the engine's torque output, all diesel TTs will come equipped with Audi's Quattro four-wheel-drive system. In normal operation, it sends 85 percent of the power to the front wheels, but is capable of diverting all power to either the front or the rear axle. Sales of the TT 2.0 TDI are currently only planned for Europe.
What this means to you: Audi creates a new niche with sports-car style and subcompact efficiency. — Eric Tingwall, Correspondent.