Audi TT gets a V6 and SMG-type tranny

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Old 11-22-2002, 11:25 PM
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Audi TT gets a V6 and SMG-type tranny

At last those a$$es

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Audi AG has released the first details of its 3.2l VR6 powered Audi TT quattro model which has been rumored and hinted at for quite some time. With 250hp and a number of subtle but effective cosmetic changes, this new addition to the TT lineup is aggressive and sleek without detracting too much from the Bauhaus inspired elegance of the base models. Most importantly though is the announcement of VW group's new six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) slotted to be used in a number of upcoming applications including the forthcoming Audi A3 and Golf V/Jetta V models in Germany.

The all-new DSG transmission is a race bred system that has now been developed for street applications. Used back in the 1980's in Audi's Sport Quattro S1 racers, this tranmission utilizes two multi-plate clutches that can simulaneously have two gears selected, one engaged the other waiting. When a gear shift is made via paddles located behind the steering wheel, both clutches are opened, gears change and clutches close in a fraction of second under full load with virtually seamless power maintained. In a down shift situation DSG will even blip the throttle to match revs. DSG can also be utilized just like a regular automatic transmission with both a conservative "D" position and an aggressive "S" sport position.

Those that have driven this setup tell us that it is still a fairly aggressive system and is not necessarily designed to replace standard Tiptronic or CVT units since those tend to be a bit smoother in shift transitions. Our best guess is that we could see this system utilized in GTI or GLI models or in future "R" or sport variants where this transmission would shine in performance applications. Only the future will tell...

Full Audi AG Press Release follows below:

Audi is unveiling the first version of its TT Coupé sports car to feature a 3.2-litre six-cylinder engine and completely new transmission technology. The combination of the high-torque 3.2-litre engine with 250 bhp and innovative sports gearbox emphasises the dynamic drive qualities of the four-wheel-drive TT in a unique way.

The revolutionary Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) transmission successfully combines all the benefits of a conventional six-speed manual gearbox with the qualities of a modern automatic version. The driver thus benefits from enormous agility, driving enjoyment and economy as well as convenient operation and smooth acceleration with uninterrupted traction.

The source of the power is the proven 3.2-litre V6 engine. With its cylinder angle of 15 degrees, it is extremely compact and is therefore especially suitable for installation transversely to the direction of travel. The valve control process generates only little friction thanks to the use of roller cam followers with hydraulic adjustment. The compression ratio is 11.3:1.

Other technical details such as continuously adjustable inlet and exhaust camshafts and the variable intake manifold give the six-cylinder engine superior torque and power output, coupled with low emissions. A great deal of detail work has once again been invested particularly in this area in order to improve still further on its peak output and torque characteristic specifically in the TT. The engine now delivers 184 kW (250 bhp) and a broad peak-torque range with a maximum value of 320 Nm (236 lb-ft. of torque) from 2,800 to 3,200 rpm.

Throttle valve actuation is designed for an exceptionally agile, spontaneous engine response to accelerator pedal movements. The way it interacts particularly with the ultra-rapid, precise control technology of the new twin-clutch transmission opens up an entirely new dimension in propulsive power.

The sound of the dual-branch variable exhaust system suitably reflects these sporting characteristics. A flap in the exhaust system is opened or shut depending on engine speed. Its sonorous sound never becomes over-assertive, even at high engine speeds, yet it unmistakably conjures up all the sentiments that sports-minded TT drivers appreciate.

The Audi TT 3.2 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6.4 seconds, whilst the top speed is gently governed at 250 km/h (155 mph). The overall consumption is just 9.8 litres over 100 km (provisional figure): a value that stands comparison even with vehicles with a classic 6-speed manual gearbox. The differences compared with the conventional geared automatic transmission with torque converter are even more impressive, since the latter is prone to significantly higher transmission losses due to its fundamental concept.


The new Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG)

So how does this revolutionary transmission concept work? The basis for the new development is a 6-speed manual gearbox with high variability in the selection of the transmission ratio. Thanks to the use of an integrated twin multi-plate clutch with ingenious control system, 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.

The technology of this twin-clutch transmission, the only one of its kind in the world, has its roots in motor racing. As far back as 1985, Walter Röhrl successfully tested it in his Audi Sport quattro S1.

Today, the new design satisfies the exacting requirements of convenient gear-shifting and maximum operating life for everyday use in series production vehicles. This transmission has been developed at group level and is built at the Kassel transmissions plant. This compact transmission is capable of handling torque of up to 350 Newton-metres (258 lb-ft. of torque).

The control logic integrated into the transmission casing maintains optimum gearshift strategies that perform lightning-fast gearshifts that are nevertheless smooth and almost jolt-free. The driver can directly influence the gear selected and the gearshift timing at will, by means of the gear lever in the manual gate or the standard-fit shift paddles on the steering wheel.

In the automatic mode, the driver can shift from position D to the ultra-sporty S program, in which upshifts are retarded, downshifts advanced and the shifting process accelerated. A remote one-touch function accessed via the shift paddles on the steering wheel in addition temporarily calls up the manual mode even in automatic modes D and S.

High overall efficiency is thus combined with superlative road performance and ease of control to produce an exceptional drive concept. The user interface is reminiscent of the familiar gearbox gate of the Audi tiptronic or multitronic.

High tech in very confined conditions

As on conventional manual gearboxes, the transmission ratios are present on input and auxiliary shafts in the form of pairs of toothed wheels. In contrast to manual gearboxes, the input shaft is divided into two sections. It comprises an outer hollow shaft, and an inner shaft. The 1st, 3rd, 5th gears and reverse are located on the inner shaft. The hollow shaft handles the even-numbered gears.

Each of these shafts is selected by means of a separate multi-plate clutch running in oil. The two electronically controlled, hydraulically actuated clutches are packed inside each other for maximum space economy.

As well as their high efficiency and ability to transmit high torques, clutches of this type permit a wide range of starting characteristics. In other words, the multi-plate clutch can be controlled in such a way that every conceivable form of pulling away is possible, from an ultra-gentle edging along on a slippery surface to sports-style acceleration at full throttle.

The gearshifts it produces feel spontaneous and decisive, as if executed at the push of a button. The electronic-control throttle blip feature of the manual and S modes reinforces the impression of ultra-dynamic gearshifts.

A shift-by-wire control concept has been implemented. The mechatronic concept combines a control unit with an electro-hydraulic control unit. The resulting device is housed in the upper section of the transmission casing. The signals from ten individual sensors are processed centrally there, and the actuation values calculated using the relevant information on the momentary driving situation from the drive CAN bus. The application pressure of the two clutches is regulated by special solenoid-operated valves depending on the situation, and the gear positioners operated.

The electronics also calculate which additional gear is to be preselected by the corresponding positioning cylinder and selector forks, and manages all actuating elements and the oil cooling circuit via six pressure regulation valves and five on/off valves.

All in all, the entirely new concept results in a decidedly agile performance, with the added benefit of the typically low fuel consumption of an advanced 6-speed manual gearbox.

Audi TT 3.2: dynamic through and through

A 13.1-inch dual-piston brake system adapted from the version used on the RS 4 assures an appropriate braking performance. There are floating-caliper brakes with ventilated 334 millimetre (13.1 inch) brake discs at the front. The rear wheels are fitted with floating-caliper brakes with 265 millimetre (10.4 inch) ventilated brake discs. In common with all TT models, the new 3.2 quattro has ESP with integral brake assist. The dynamism of the new top-of-the-range TT version is moreover outwardly in evidence. The main changes compared with the other TT models are the modified rear spoiler and the front apron with enlarged inlet openings and lateral gills. The larger rear spoiler further reduces rear-end lift, in line with the performance gain of the TT 3.2 quattro.

The front apron now incorporates larger openings to cover the higher demand for cooling air, without the aerodynamic properties being affected. The drag coefficient remains unchanged at Cd = 0.32.

The TT 3.2 quattro in addition has xenon lights as standard with range control and titanium-coloured headlight trims. Inside, as well as the shift paddles on the steering wheel this version is distinguished by a gearbox gate in polished aluminium and an instrument panel insert with a speedometer extending as far up as 280 km/h (174 mph).

The market launch is scheduled for mid-2003.
Old 11-22-2002, 11:41 PM
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Tempting.
Old 11-22-2002, 11:46 PM
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Summed it in one word Not easy to do
Old 11-22-2002, 11:48 PM
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Very.


the TT body is starting to look dated to me tho. never thought that would happen.

WHERE IS THAT GLASS ROOFED TT?!!?
Old 11-23-2002, 12:00 AM
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Lovely... just wait till we see Twin Turbo version of this Z350 killer!

I love the new Transmission... I thought Honda will do that first.....
Old 11-23-2002, 01:17 AM
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Z killer
Old 11-23-2002, 03:48 AM
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Originally posted by soopa
Very.


the TT body is starting to look dated to me tho. never thought that would happen.

WHERE IS THAT GLASS ROOFED TT?!!?
I think that design can last another five years easily. It was beautiful when it first came out, and it's beautiful now, and it is still a long way from being dated in my opinion.
Old 11-23-2002, 06:43 AM
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Originally posted by GOOSE
I think that design can last another five years easily. It was beautiful when it first came out, and it's beautiful now, and it is still a long way from being dated in my opinion.
Agreed, and I love that color.
Old 11-23-2002, 07:46 AM
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That's the one thing the TT was lacking, a strong motor. I'd be interested in seeing how this one would compare to the other cars in the latest C&D article.
Old 11-23-2002, 08:35 AM
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Why do auto manufacturers put the SMG/Tiptronic gate on the other side of the driver?

Doesn't it make more sense to have it closer to the driver?

That car is awesome. It's probably going to be $45k to start. I'll be interested to see what it does at the track. It's a beautiful car and that color is great.

I wish I had $45k. =)
Old 11-23-2002, 10:06 AM
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Originally posted by Nashua_Night_Hawk
Lovely... just wait till we see Twin Turbo version of this Z350 killer!

I love the new Transmission... I thought Honda will do that first.....
That engine you are referring to will be availabel only to the next gen. TT. And not even during the first year. So it is at least 2+ years away from now. And by then as you know with this HP war we are going through, things will be different for the Z too.
Old 11-23-2002, 10:07 AM
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Originally posted by Scrib
That's the one thing the TT was lacking, a strong motor. I'd be interested in seeing how this one would compare to the other cars in the latest C&D article.

Exactly. Me too.
Old 11-23-2002, 10:29 AM
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That just renewed my interest in that car!!!!!!!
Old 11-23-2002, 11:48 AM
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Hot , very HOT
Old 11-23-2002, 12:27 PM
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SWEET! The front apron needs to be cleaned up a bit though...it looks to busy, otherwise I love it. Looks like we'll be seeing a lot more SMG-type trannies soon too. This one's real cool, wonder how long before they get stronger too, being able to handle more than the 258 lb-ft. of torque this one's rated at.
Old 11-23-2002, 05:58 PM
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hey did anyone else notice that this car almost touches the limits of the DSG transmission???


The car, stock, is putting down 320 Nm of torque... the tranny can only handle a maximum of 350 Nm.

Seems like a problem since I would certainly want to modify this car... just as I would any Audi.
Old 11-23-2002, 07:04 PM
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Old 11-23-2002, 07:16 PM
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This'll be a car we see at Pebble Beach in 25 years. Ageless beauty.
Old 11-23-2002, 10:59 PM
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It's still ugly.
Old 11-23-2002, 11:57 PM
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That just got alot hotter, and how can you say it looks dated? I think the design is the closest thing to timeless on the road today.
Old 11-24-2002, 01:43 AM
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i love the car and think its beautiful.

but i do think its getting dated... its a repeat of the Z3.

all the timeless shit is hype.
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