The 2015 Audi TT is all set to hit Indian shores early next year. Audi first iteration of the TT Coupe garnered critical acclaim for being one of the accessible sports cars available. Its unique design also allowed the first generation TT to become a style icon back in the early 2000’s. For the TT’s second generation, Audi upped the style even further and greatly worked on the sports coupe’s handling characteristics as well. With the Audi TT now a far more balanced product, the German car maker then went on to develop the the coupe as a platform for introducing new tech. We compare what the 2015 Audi TT now offers against one of the most popular luxury coupes currently in the market: the Mercedes SLK-Class.
Design:
2015 Audi TT:
The new Audi TT is more of a transition from the previous gen than an out and out revamp. Although the manufacturer has introduced several new elements for the new generation, the Audi TT retains some of its most recognizable elements such as the rear tail lamp design, short and stout proportions and the gentle cuts and creases that form its evocative design.
Up front we have Audi’s new LED DRLs that adds a touch of dynamism that was lacking in the previous generation. The rear is graced by a pair of all LED tail lamps. Audi has also added a third brake light in the form of a strip that runs end to end further enhancing the coupe’s visual appeal. However, like most of Audi’s new lineup, the TT fails to impress on the same level as its predecessors.
Mercedes Benz SLK-CLass:
The Mercedes Benz SLK CLass acts as a less expensive alternative to the manufacturer’s SL-Class. As such, the SLK sports a smaller engine and less aggressive styling. While the 2012 SLK may be a scaled down variant of the SL, the car remains in a class of its own. The all new SLK benefits from the toned down styling that manifests into a more appealing product that walks the thin line between brash and soothing. The mix of bulging, muscular power lines and subtle curves produces a scintillating silhouette.
Winner: Mercedes Benz SLK-Class
Interior:
2015 Audi TT:
The cabin of the 2015 Audi TT was first previewed at CES 2014. Featuring an all new virtual cockpit, the new TT is a radical departure from current Audi’s. Occupants are greeted by an all black cabin that features a single large screen that acts as both the infotainment system’s display as well as the instrument cluster. Each air vent features a unique display and controls for the automatic climate control system. Despite the intelligent redesign of the TT’s air con vents, the Audi TT’s virtual cockpit system may prove a hindrance to distraction-free driving and the co-passengers may undergo unnecessary hassle while adjusting music controls.
Mercedes Benz SLK-CLass:
The SLK-CLass serves as a precursor to the more exorbitant Mercedes Benz SL-Class. As such, the car features a largely toned down, cabin that shares numerous elements with the A-Class such as the propeller style air con vents, and the infotainment system. While the CLA and A Class feature a floating display as opposed to the integrated unit found on the SLK-Class, the system’s specs and version remain the same. To keep with the theme of luxury, Mercedes Benz has also fitted an analog clock to the SLK-Class.
Winner: Audi TT
Under the Hood:
2015 Audi TT:
Powering the 2015 Audi TT is a 2.0 turbocharged inline four cylinder engine that churns out 220 hp @ 6200 rpm and 350 Nm of torque at 1600 rpm. Power is sent to all four wheels via a 6-speed dual-clutch automatic. Although the new MQB architecture on which the new TT is based off of is front wheel drive biased, the majority of the power is sent to the rear wheels.
Mercedes Benz SLK-CLass:
The Mercedes Benz SLK-Class is powered by a frugal 1.8 l turbocharged inline four cylinder engine that churns out a modest 201 hp @ 5500 rpm and 310 Nm of torque at 2000 rpm. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a manual gearbox.
Verdict:
What the TT lacks in self-expression, it more than makes up for in terms of performance and features. The Mercedes Benz SLK-Class may be Benz’s entry level sports coupe, however, the car fails to impress in terms of interior styling and engine specs.