The New Audi TT S Is Less Powerful But Slightly Faster

Say hello to the new, improved Audi TT S. Which is, erm, slightly less powerful than before. It’s dropped from 306bhp to 302bhp, thanks to the use of a petrol particulate filter which has been fitted to make the car compliant with the new WLTP emissions regime.

But don’t worry, it’s actually a little faster than before. The coupe and the drop-top versions of the TT S both complete the 0-62mph sprint a tenth quicker than the pre-facelift cars - 4.5sec and 4.8sec respectively. It’s all down to the old six-speed twin-clutch ‘DSG’ gearbox being ditched for VW Group’s newer seven-speed unit.

You’re probably wondering, then, how the power drop might affect the performance of the manual. Well, we have bad news on that front: there’s no longer a stick shift option for the TT S. Boo.

The manual TT S - which only accounted for 12 per cent of UK TT S sales - isn’t the only thing that’s been dropped from the range, either: the diesel TT is no more, and the entry-level 1.8-litre inline-four has been banished from the range, replaced with a 2.0-litre unit producing 197bhp.

It’s badged ‘40 TFSI’, while the old 228bhp TT has been replaced with a 242bhp ‘45 TFSI’ model. These can be had with either the seven-speed DSG or a six-speed manual, although four-wheel drive is available only on the 45.

Want something a little more special? You might be interested in the ‘TT 20 years’ anniversary version (above and below). Limited to 999 examples, the special-edition - you guessed it - celebrates the 20th anniversary of the TT. It does so with ‘moccasin brown’ Nappa leather (which we dig), Panuka contrasting stitching and a bunch of ‘TT 20 years’ badges. On the outside, it’s enhanced by stainless steel tailpipes, OLED tail lights and Audi rings above the sills. You can have it as either a coupe or Roadster and with either Arrow grey or Nardo grey paint. You’ll have to like grey and brown, in other words.

All cars have received an exterior tweak, not that you’d notice without looking closely. The single-frame grille has a new “three-dimensional” design, flanked by bigger intakes. If you go for an S Line or Black Edition car, your TT will be treated to a fancy new front splitter, angrier side skirts, finned (fake) air inlets at the rear, and a redesigned diffuser. Equipment levels for all models have been boosted, and there are some new wheel and colour options. We particularly like the look of ‘pulse orange’, though we suspect that’ll be a niche choice…

Order books will open in Autumn, and the first cars will arrive with owners near the end of the year.