GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – Audi adopted a diesel powerplant for its latest TT Coupe and Roadster models, which will debut at the Geneva Motor Show. The 140mph TT 2.0 TDI quattro has a 50mpg-plus fuel economy, is EU5 compliant, and shows a 23 percent reduction in CO2 output compared to the petrol equivalent. The six-speed Coupe achieves 0-62 mph in 7.5 seconds, with a top speed of 140mph while the Roadster can go from 0-62km in 7.7 seconds, with a top speed of 138 mph. The cars on show in
Geneva are “production ready” with first deliveries expected in summer 2008, according to businessweek.com.

Billed as “the world’s first bona fide diesel-powered sports car,” the space-efficient shape of the 2.0L, four-cylinder TDI introduced in the Audi A4 Saloon in 143PS/105kW form has been transferred to the compact engine bay of the TT with more power (170PS/125kW) and more torque than the 3.2L V-6 petrol model (350Nm). The engine includes common rail fuel injection that incorporates advanced piezo injection technology, capable of performing up to five distinct injection sequences per cycle. The 170PS is reached at 4200rpm and the 350Nm maximum torque (assisted by the inclusion of a new turbocharger with adjustable vanes) from 1750rmp to 2500rpm. The cars have a 5000 rpm limit, and improvements in combustion chamber thermodynamics mean they can run on up to 60-percent recycled exhaust that has been cooled by the radiator.

The Coupe boasts 53.3mpg combined consumption with a CO2 output of 140g/km, and the Roadster has 51.3mpg combined consumption with a CO₂ output of 145g/km.

The standard UK specification for the TT 2.0 TDI quattro includes 17-inch Trapez alloy wheels, leather and Alcantara-upholstered sports seats, electronic climate control, and an MP3-compatible 140-watt Audi Concert audio system with single CD drive. The Roadster adds a fully automatic electrically operated soft-top and integrated wind deflector.

The vehicles will be available to buy this year from £26,350.