A New SUV Based on the Latest TT

New SUV Sketches Revealedwas unveiled at theBeijing Motor Show. The Audi TT Offroad Concept, as its name suggests, is a compact SUV model belonging to the TT series, whose third generation just had its world premiere in March at theGeneva Motor Show.TT seriesIt is said to express the sportiness of the TT model and the robustness of Audi's SUVs.

The styling retains traces of the TT in various elements, particularly reflected in the side view. For example, a 3:7 ratio of front to rear window height creates a line reminiscent of a sporty coupe. The roofline, in particular, evokes the TT.

Its body dimensions are officially stated as 4.39 meters in length, 1.85 meters in width, and a wheelbase of 2.63 meters, making it nearly equivalent to the Audi Q3. However, its height of 1.85 meters is about 8 cm lower than the Q3, suggesting that this model is designed based on the TT coupe.

The front mask features the iconic Audi Singleframe grille, sculpted into the body, framed by sharp, eye-like Matrix LED headlights. Below the grille, air intakes are positioned, equipped with air blades inside to improve downforce on the front axle. The flat design of the intakes also makes the TT Offroad Concept appear wider. The cleanly designed rear, despite its hatch style, strongly recalls the new TT.

Equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems

The interior, seating four people, features supportive sports seats with integrated headrests. The design identity draws heavily from both the TT and Q series.

While sporty details are reflected from the TT, utility features such as the robust-looking door handles and center console are inspired by the more functionally oriented Q series.

The instrument cluster features the "Audi Virtual Cockpit" with a high-resolution, 3D-capable 12.3-inch TFT display. Various display modes can be switched with a single button press. The center console extends to the rear seats, offering a private space with cup holders, storage compartments, and a charging system for mobile devices. It also includes three smart displays with internet connectivity, representing the latest in interface technology. These displays are designed for durability in high temperatures and have dedicated storage spaces at each seat to maintain cabin comfort.

Among the new equipment, the advanced driver assistance systems are particularly noteworthy.

The Intersection Assistant system alerts the driver at intersections and merging lanes to prevent collisions with approaching vehicles from the side. Laser sensors and a wide-angle camera constantly monitor the area in front of and to the sides of the vehicle. If the system predicts a collision with a vehicle approaching from the side, it displays a warning. Development for this feature is reportedly nearing commercialization.

Another system is the Online Traffic Light Information. This function connects to the central computer controlling city traffic lights via mobile phone, instructing the driver on the optimal speed to pass the next traffic light while it is green. When stopped, it also indicates the time until the light turns green.

A New Front- and Rear-Separated Hybrid Powertrain

The powertrain utilizes a plug-in hybrid system, delivering a maximum system output of 300 kW (408 hp) and peak torque of 650 Nm. This results in a 0-100 km/h acceleration of 5.2 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h, where the limiter engages. Environmental performance is also excellent, with an average fuel consumption of just 1.9 L/100 km (52.63 km/L) and CO2 emissions of only 45 g/km. The electric-only range is up to 50 km, and the total hybrid range extends to 880 km.

The engine is a powerful 2.0-liter TFSI unit producing a maximum output of 215 kW (292 hp) and peak torque of 380 Nm. This is combined with an electric motor delivering 40 kW and 220 Nm. The slim motor unit is integrated into the 6-speed S tronic transmission, and both power sources drive the front wheels.

A rear electric motor, producing 85 kW and 270 Nm, drives the rear axle. These components are controlled to create an all-wheel-drive system. Three driving modes are available: "EV mode," where only the rear motor drives the vehicle on electric power; "Hybrid mode," where the front motor is actively utilized, balancing engine power for driving; and "Sport mode," where all units generate power. In Sport mode, when strong acceleration is desired, a boost function activates, engaging both the rear motor and the engine for enhanced acceleration. The hybrid mode also enables all-wheel drive when necessary.

The vehicle is equipped with a lithium-ion battery, positioned just ahead of the rear axle. This placement helps achieve a balanced front-to-rear weight distribution of 54:46 and a low center of gravity.

Charging is supported by multiple voltage standards and features convenient wireless charging via Audi Wireless Charging. This system involves parking the vehicle over a plate embedded with converter and coil components, which automatically initiates charging. Electromagnetic waves generated by the coil on the plate interact with a coil mounted on the vehicle to supply power. Charging begins automatically and stops when the battery is full. The process can be interrupted at any time and is unaffected by weather conditions, offering high transmission efficiency. Importantly, the charging plate is designed to pose no risk to people.

The concept model also includes a humorous touch: a special box in the luggage compartment houses a 1:8 scale remote-controlled TT Offroad Concept car. However, the body utilizes the MQB module, similar to other new Audi models, demonstrating a practical approach in both software and hardware. Concrete proposals may not be far off.