BMW - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - BMW Looks To E30 M3 For Inspiration Of Next M Car: Report - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

Here are our latest photos showing the new BMW 5 Series, codenamed G30, testing at the Nürburgring. Based on the fairy door on the left front fender, we'll take this as the purported PHEV version that we caught last time around on German city streets. According to the insiders at BMWBlog, the 5er hybrid will take heavy inspiration from the X5 xDrive40e, including the 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with electric assistance and a combined power rating of about 300 horsepower.

The lighter CLAR architecture making its way under the 3, 5, 6, and 7 Series models is expected to remove anywhere from 80 to 100 kilograms in the 5, enabling non-US markets to partake of the 150-hp, turbodiesel three-cylinder engine at the entry-level end. However, the engine symphony will run up the scale through four-, six-, and eight-cylinder registers that include a 400-hp M550 diesel and a 600-hp V8 in the M5.

The tech story is 'Go Go Gadget G30,' with rumors of autonomous abilities like being able to overtake other cars on its own – and signaling beforehand – and parking itself. Inductive charging through a floor-mounted plate, as shown at this year's Consumer Electronics Show, a new iDrive layout with a touchscreen and gesture-enabled functions, and over-the-air updates are also expected. We could see it revealed at next year's Geneva Motor Show, or maybe the 2016 Auto China, in Beijing, or sooner.

source: Autoblog

by Jonathon Ramsey

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Audi - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - Audi SQ7 spied for the first time- Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

Audi isn't really hiding that its engineers are hard at work on a high-performance version of the latestQ7. However, we haven't seen any of the fruits of this labor, until we got these fresh spy shots of theSQ7.

With seemingly no camouflage on the car, these photos might give a very good idea of what to expect from Audi's speedy SUV. One big tip-off of the model's performance aspirations is the redesign of the front end's lower portion. New ducts beside the foglights send cool air to what appear to be intercoolers. This test model rides on a very cool-looking set of basket-weave style wheels, and the big, cross-drilled brakes are easy to spot behind them. At the rear, the quad exhaust tips also signal something special.

Our spies also snapped some shots of the interior. If there is any question about whether this is the SQ7, these photos certainly assuage it. The badging is plain as day on the gauges, but at this point the changes appear to be fairly minimal beyond that.

We know the SQ7 is going to get more power, but the method isn't officially confirmed yet. Although, Audi technical bossDr. Ulrich Hackenberg said bluntly last year that it would use an electrically turbocharged engine, possibly an evolution of the V6 diesel in the RS5 TDI Concept.

Hackenberg also suggested that the SQ7 would go on sale in 2016. Though, the actual debut might come earlier. Regardless, the tweaks should make the SUV quite a performer. Even on the standard version, it weighs 700 pounds less than the previous generation, while remaining about the same size.

source: autoblog

by Chris Bruce

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Range Rover - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - Land Rover Range Rover Sport HST addresses the supercharged V6's big issue - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

We like the standard Land Rover Range Rover Sport an awful lot. But it's not without its issues. Chief among them is the 3.0-liter, supercharged V6, which with 340 horsepower lacks the outright punch of the old V8 model.

The limited-edition Land Rover model addresses that complaint, though, adding an extra 40 horsepower and as we said in our original post, eclipsing even the old, naturally aspirated 5.0-liter V8. Combined with the lighter, aluminum construction of this latest generation of Sport, it's safe to say that the HST should hit a real sweet spot between the base 340-hp model and the (frankly unnecessary) 510-horsepower Supercharged trim.

You can read more about the Range Rover Sport HST, including details about its aesthetic changes, in our original post. But before you do that, we've got a full crop of images of the new car.

source: Autoblog

by Brandon Turkus

image credit: Drew Philips

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Mercedes - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - 2016 Mercedes-Benz GLC Spy Video - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

Just as the Mercedes-Benz M-Class has been replaced by the new GLE, the smaller GLK-Class is set to be replaced by a new model called the “GLC”. The GLC is expected to make a world debut at the 2015 Frankfurt Auto Show in September but it’s not hard to extrapolate the basic design and shape from prototypes, such as those featured in our exclusive spy video above.

The GLC is slightly larger than the GLK it’s set to replace, though it will still sit in the small SUV segment where it’s destined to do battle with the likes of the Audi Q5 and BMW X3. The bigger size should translate to more interior space, an area where the GLK is outmatched by rivals.

Beneath the skin will be a mechanical package shared with the latest C-Class—a modular platform known as "MRA". And with the new C-Class now being manufactured at Mercedes’ plant in the U.S., there’s a small chance the new GLC will join it. The GLC will also get a right-hand-drive configuration, enabling the vehicle to enter markets such as the U.K., Japan, India and Australia, where the left-hand-drive-only GLK was never officially sold.

A four-cylinder turbo should remain the base option, most likely a 2.0-liter unit good for 241 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The GLK’s turbocharged 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel should carry over, and a gasoline V-6 should also be on offer, most likely a turbocharged 3.0-liter unit good for 329 hp and 354 lb-ft of torque. The good news is that a high-performance GLC63 is being developed by the Mercedes-AMG skunk works, and we should also see a new AMG Sport variant as well as a plug-in hybrid at some point.

Following the arrival of the GLC, Mercedes will unveil a GLS model to replace the GL-Class. And at the 2015 Shanghai Auto Show this month, the German automaker will preview a new GLC Coupe model with a thinly-veiled concept. The eventual production GLC Coupe will serve as Mercedes’ rival to the BMW X4.

source: motorauthority

by Viknesh Vijayethiran

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Jaguar - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - 2017 Jaguar F-Pace Spy Shots - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

These are the latest spy shots of Jaguar’s upcoming SUV based on the C-X17 concept

first shown at the 2013 Frankfurt Auto Show. Previously thought to be an "XQ" or "Q-Type", Jaguar has since confirmed that it’s first-ever high-riding model will be called an "F-Pace". While the name might be a bit of an odd choice—Jaguar says it picked F-Pace to link the new SUV with the F-Type sports car—we’re glad to report that the production version appears almost identical to the handsome concept.

The latest photos  reveal the V-6-powered version of the F-Pace, likely to bear the name "F-Pace S". Some of the modifications from previous prototypes to note include: larger, high-performance brakes; twin exhaust outlets; and larger wheels.

Looking at shots showing the interior, we see a dash layout that resembles the one in the 2017 XE sedan. Prototypes are still at an early stage of development, so expect some elements to change by the time production rolls around. For example, we should see a central display screen for Jaguar’s new InControl infotainment system.

Jaguar C-X17 concept Mk2

The F-Pace will take on the BMW X3 and Mercedes-Benz GLC (next-gen GLK-Class) in the premium small crossover segment but will be set apart by brilliant dynamics and fuel efficiency  made possible by an advanced lightweight aluminum architecture. That new platform is the iQ[Al] that debuted in the XE.

Derived from the Premium Lightweight Architecture used by Land Rover, the iQ[Al] is a scalable vehicle platform designed not only to be light but also extremely stiff. It’s also been designed to incorporate innovative efficiency technologies such as diesel, plug-in hybrid and even battery-powered electric powertrains, and it also features some pretty sophisticated chassis technology  like Instinctive All-Wheel Drive and All Surface Progress Control.

source: motorauthority

by Viknesh Vijayethiran

image via S. Baldauf/ SB-Media

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Audi - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - 2016 Audi S6 - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

Minutes after spending time in the refreshed 2016 Audi A6 in Germany, we were tossed the keys to its enthusiast-tuned sibling, the Audi S6. In similar manner to its lesser brethren, the S6 has also been updated for the 2016 model year with a new look, a boost in power and additional technology.

Its aggressive demeanor is heralded by a redesigned signature single-frame grille, resculpted bumpers (front and rear) and new lights on both ends – theMatrix LED headlamps fitted to our European test car are impressive, but the US DOT has ensure that we won't see them (pun intended) for now. The cabin appointments have gone even further upscale, and the enhanced MMI infotainment system now runs more fluidly thanks to a faster NVIDIA graphics chip. The primary instrument cluster, facing the operator, has been redesigned to offer its own duplicate display to ease the driver's workload.

Under the hood, the twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter TFSI V8 is bumped to 450 horsepower (a gain of 30), while torque remains the same at 406 pound-feet. The standard gearbox is Audi's seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch unit, sending power to all four wheels through the automaker's rear-biased Quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system.

Driving Notes

• Don't be one of the misinformed who believe that the Audi S6 competes with the BMW M5 and Mercedes-Benz E63 AMG. All three may be at the top of each automaker's midsize sedan offerings in North America, but that's only because Audi doesn't offer us the flagship RS6 – its true adversary to the M5 and E63. For reference, the S6 sits at the same performance level as the BMW 550i, which is its closest competitor today. Interestingly enough, without the discontinued E550, Mercedes doesn't offer anything a direct rival (yet).
• The cabin of the standard A6 is very luxurious, but the pleated leather upholstery, contrasting stitching and carbon fiber trim with matte aluminum accents of the S6 raise the appointments to magnificent levels. As is the case with all Audis, build quality borders on flawless and all of the materials are top notch. The passenger compartment is as comfortable and accommodating as it looks, with supportive and well-bolstered front seats, room for three adults in the second row and a generous trunk.
• Our test car, fitted with the optional sport exhaust (note the black tailpipes), delivered a burly growl that easily permeated the interior. Unlike many other automakers these days, Audi doesn't pipe any engine sound or exhaust note into the cabin. The natural exhaust note is deep and soothing, not obnoxious in the least, and any increase in volume is accompanied by a firm push in the backside.
• Power is up, but the 2016 model doesn't feel significantly quicker than its predecessor, likely because the torque figure remains the same. That said, launch-control starts will easily beat factory claims (the 2013 model was clocked at 3.7 seconds to 60 mph) and we have no doubt this model will do as well, or better.
• Dynamically, the S6 drives with a heavy, firmly planted deportment. It sticks well, with the Quattro AWD system putting the power down very nicely. Feedback is good, and there's an overwhelming feeling of confidence from behind the wheel. Our Euro model boasted carbon-ceramic brakes, which acted like four anchors, but they are not offered on the S6 in the States.
• If we were asked to improve on the S6, we'd only do two things: First, we would fit a steering wheel-mounted button that immediately toggles the vehicle to the driver's favorite sport settings – much like the "M" button BMWoffers. As of now, running through a couple of menus to put Audi's Drive Select in Dynamic mode takes far too long. Second, we would paint the inside of those signature exterior aluminum mirrors matte black, as their bright surfacing reflects back towards the driver, causing distractions. That's it.
• The S6 has always been one of our top picks for a performance sedan, at least one that will never see track duty. Its manners are impeccable around town and on the highway, where its capabilities are overkill, but it simply does not have the raw evil edge to take it to the next level of performance. We're fine with its athletic gentleman-like street manners, as we'd rather hit the racing circuit in a lightweight two-door sports car anyway

source: Autoblog

by Michael Harley

• Image Credit: Copyright 2014 Michael Harley / AOL

http://www.boscheuropean.com

BMW - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - BMW Looks To E30 M3 For Inspiration Of Next M Car: Report - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

2016 BMW M2 spy shots - Image via S. Baldauf/SB-Medien

For fans of BMW's M Brand, there are a few examples that stand a few ticks above the rest. The E39 M5 is certainly high on the list, as is the E46 M3. It's the E30 M3, however, that remains the greatest M car for many an automotive enthusiast.

A high-water mark for the brand, and a reminder that BMW used to take its Ultimate Driving Machine tagline quite seriously. Perhaps it's time for the brand to get back to that, which is why BMW is reportedly looking to the E30 M3 as a source of inspiration for an upcoming M car.

According to Autocar, BMW is ready to look backwards as it approaches its 100th anniversary. There's a new M2 already ready to make an appearance at dealerships, so perhaps this E30-inspired machine will be a special anniversary edition car. Regardless, it's great to hear that such a motoring icon is being recognized, studied, and applied to a future product.

There's more good news in the form of how the automaker is assessing its future sporting cars, too. Design Director Adrian van Hooydonk is taking a page out of Colin Chapman's book by addressing the fact that lightness adds performance. The future of enthusiast’s machines won't come from more and more power, but a reduction in weight.

Look for the horsepower arms race to at least stalemate soon, with the next great race to be one to drop curb weight. 

source: Motorauthority

by Jeff Glucker

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Jaguar - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - Watch new Jaguar XF perform a literal high-wire act - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

Coming out with a new luxury sedan can be a truly daunting prospect. Make it too edgy and you'll risk disenfranchising what can often be a rather conservative customer base. Make it too conservative and you may fail to attract enough new customers or generate enough interest to make the endeavor worthwhile.

Whether Jaguar succeeded in walking that thin line with the new XF is a matter of personal taste, blending as it does elements from the smaller XE and the outgoing XF it replaces. But in launching the new model, Jaguar didn't just pull of a figurative high-wire act – it did quite a literal one.

To drum up support for its newest debut, Jaguar undertook the stunt depicted in the video above, stringing a pair of carbon-fiber cables some 60 feet above the River Thames in London. With some guide wires and counterbalance weights to keep it all in check, and a motion-picture stunt crew orchestrating it all, the new XF drove over 780 feet from one bank of the river to the other, setting a new world record in the process.

Instead of thinking too hard about the whys (seriously, though... why?) and hows, we suggest you just watch the video above.

Related Video:

source: Autoblog

by Noah Joseph

News source: Jaguar via YouTube

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Bentley - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - Continental GT V8 S the best Bentley yet? - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

It wouldn't be fair to describe the Bentley Continental GT V8 S as taking the standard version of the luxury coupe and turning the driving engagement up to 11. That accolade is reserved for the hardcore, stripped-out GT3-R version. Though, not everyone wants to go quite that far. As Xcar Filmspresents in a new video, being behind the wheel of the S compared to the standard GT is more like listening to music through a quality set of speakers where everything become a little more crisp and clear.

Giving the S that extra little bit are a multitude of improvements like a stiffer suspension, tighter steering, a more aggressive body kit and an extra 21 horsepower from its twin-turbo 4.0-liter V8. However, the real magic is how Bentley mixes all of the tweaks together into a grand tourer that can work with drivers when they want to have a little fun. Plus,Xcar's fantastic cinematography over some rolling British hills on a wet day provides a great backdrop.

source: 

News Source: Xcar via AOL On

Image Credit: Copyright 2015 Seyth Miersma / AOL

by Chris Bruce

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Range Rover - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - Land Rover SVO Builds An Ultra-Luxurious Range Rover With Holland & Holland - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

Land Rover has revealed its most expensive SUV  to date, the Range Rover Holland & Holland edition. The vehicle has only been announced for the British market at present, where it is priced from a staggering £180,000 (approximately 285,022). The justification for such a lofty price tag is the hand-made, bespoke nature of the vehicle, which was developed by Land Rover’s SVO personalization department together with historic British gun manufacturer Holland & Holland.

The vehicle is based on the Range Rover  Autobiography Black model and is packed with exclusive features, which Land Rover says perfectly complements outdoor pursuits, such as hunting. The highlight can be found in the trunk. Fitted here is a removable loadspace cabinet that has been designed especially for the vehicle. It’s lined in espresso-colored Alcantara and can fit a pair of Holland & Holland guns. It sits on a deployable loadspace floor, engineered from aluminium and carbon fiber and finished with leather and wood veneer.

Buyers can choose either the standard Range Rover or long-wheelbase model, with the latter available with individual reclining seats and an extended and re-designed center console that houses a pair of electrically deployable walnut tables; integrated USB charging sockets; additional storage cubbies; and bespoke lighting. Special Holland & Holland touches include unique embroidery; wood veneers that match Holland’s oil-finished gunstocks; and door handle detailing with exquisite engraving.

On the outside, the vehicle is easily recognizable by its unique green paint for the fullbody , side mirror caps and hood vent. The grille is painted in the same deep green and has chrome highlights.

The available powertrains are Land Rover’s V-8 units, which means the 510-horsepower supercharged 5.0-liter unit common to U.S.-delivered Range Rovers as well as a 339-hp turbocharged 4.4-liter diesel that we miss out on.

Land Rover plans to build just 120 examples of the Range Rover Holland & Holland over the next three years.

source:  motorauthority

by Viknesh Vijayenthiran

htttp://www.boscheuropean.com

Mercedes - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - Mercedes Restored A 540K Streamliner And Made A Movie About It - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Streamliner

1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Streamliner

1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Streamliner

1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Streamliner

1938 Mercedes-Benz 540K Streamliner

More Galleries

Front-Wheel-Drive Nissan GT-R LM NISMO LMP1 Preview And Live Shots: Video

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles Unveils New Uconnect Access Services At CES: Video

Classic Mini Crushed By U.S. Customs As Part Of Operation Atlantic: Video

2015 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 Starts Heading Out To Dealers

2015 Volkswagen Golf R First Drive: Video

2016 BMW 3-Series Plug-In Hybrid First Details

The Mercedes-Benz 540 K Streamliner is an important piece of history for the automaker. This is a car that was created as a one-off back in 1938, and it was a technical masterpiece for Benz . An aluminum bodied machine that was able to cut through the wind thanks to its supercharged 5.4-liter straight-eight engine. The goal was a blend of speed and luxury, and the super-smooth 540K was exactly that, yet it never got a chance to shine because the world broke out into war.

The 540K wound up as a tire-company test machine before it disappeared. Mercedes-Benz found the car, and set about restoring it to its former glory. That required nearly 5,000 hours of work, but it was a labor of love for the automaker, who filmed the entire affair and turned it into a 45-minute movie.

It's called The Streamliner Case, and you can watch it in full online. The movie goes into the history of the car, while also showing what it takes to bring it back to life. The video above is merely a teaser but should prove interesting enough to whet your appetite. Yes, it's on the dramatic side, but the car could be considered drama distilled into automotive  form. After watching the trailer, we find ourselves left with two questions.

One, what was the cost of this restoration? We imagine it was enormous and that the car is now considered priceless.

Two, what made those perfect burnout marks seen at the end of the video ? This must be answered.

source: motorauthority

by Jeff Glucker

http://www.boscheuropean.com

BMW - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - 2015 BMW 740Ld xDrive - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

When it first came stateside in 1978, choosing a BMW 7 Series was a simple process. With one engine and one wheelbase, you could just pick what color you want and be on your merry way. Today there are ten different models, forcing drivers to choose among four engines (plus a hybrid), rear- or all-wheel-drive, and two different wheelbase lengths.

As if this isn't tricky enough, the options list has more custom choices than the Taco Bell app. Do you want standard paint and upholstery, or something from the pricey BMW Individual collection? What about the headlights: Do you want LEDs, or are the standard xenons just fine? Need a head-up display? Night vision? Adaptive dampers? The list goes on and on.

After a week with a new version of BMW's flagship sedan, we've sorted out which model you actually want, although it's still up to you whether or not to order a ceramic-glazed iDrive knob. Our favorite 7 Series is now the 740Ld Xdrive, a conclusion we came to after a week at the helm of the smooth, torquey land yacht.

Driving Notes

• When the diesel 7 first arrived at the 2014 Chicago Auto Show, its engine was already familiar to American consumers. It's the same 3.0-liter, turbodiesel inline-six found in everything from the E90 3 Series to the past two generations of X5, as well as the current 5 Series. A robust 413 pound-feet of torque lathered across the rev range, with peak twist available between 1,500 and 3,000 rpm, and the corresponding horsepower tops out at 255.
• 0­–60 happens in a sedate 6.1 seconds, and for those with autobahn dreams the top speed is a modest 130 mph. While those figures aren't terribly impressive, as is often the case with diesels, the real-world application of the engine's power is far more dramatic. Even small throttle inputs produce a smooth surge of acceleration, making the 740Ld feel a lot quicker than the performance metrics might indicate.
• Even with the current cheap price of gas, the superior fuel efficiency of a diesel engine is worth noting, especially as this model only costs $1500 more than a 740Li xDrive. The diesel tips the scales at nearly 4,700 pounds, yet it boasts a 31-mile-per-gallon highway rating. It's rated at 23 mpg in the city, while our real-world testing saw returns in the mid-to-high 20s.
• Simple anecdotes about acceleration and fuel economy figures only convey a small part of the 740Ld's goodness. This engine comes into its own on the freeway, where the standard eight-speed automatic keeps the revs as low as possible. A 70-mph cruising speed produces nary a whisper from under the hood, while a small toe's worth of throttle elicits a nearly imperceptible swapping of cogs and a smooth, quiet wave of torque. This is a vehicle that delights in being driven with a soft foot and a gentle hand, befitting its large luxury status.
• Despite the BMW badge on the nose and all six cylinders arranged in a straight line, this car is very clearly diesel powered. It sounds neither smooth nor particularly refined when pushed.
• It's not just the quiet engine and telepathic transmission that do the 740Ld good. Our tester car's $2,500 Adaptive Drive system with Active Roll Stabilization ironed out bumps beautifully while keeping the car planted and composed through every bend and in turn.
• We have to salute BMW's restraint in fitting 19-inch wheels to the M Sport Package on our car, although 20s are still offered as an option. And even with run-flat tires, road noise was remarkably well managed. That's doubly impressive when you remember that the engine is too quiet to drown out any racket from the pavement.
• The 740Ld xDrive only comes in one body style and drivetrain – that's long wheelbase and all-wheel-drive if you're unfamiliar with BMW's nomenclature – and prices start at $82,500. Our test car included the M Sport Edition line, a bargain that combines the $4,800 Executive Package and the $4,600 M Sport Package for just $4,000. The other options were Adaptive Drive System for $2,500, $750 powered sunshades, $650 ceramic controls (an easy pick, if you ask us), $800 Cold Weather Package and an enhanced Bluetooth system and smartphone integration for $500. Throw in a $950 destination charge, and you come to our as-tested price in Alpine White of $92,650.

One more thing– the 7 Series is old. It's not Lexus LS-old, but with a birthday way back in 2008, the 7 precedes the Jaguar XJ, Audi A8, and the Mercedes-Benz S-Class. It's that last one that really dooms the 7 Series.

The S-Class drives better, looks better, and the interior feels better. It is arguably one of the best cars you can buy today. The Mercedes may not offer a diesel, but it's still a better overall package than the aging BMW, and it starts just under $2,000 more than the 7 Series you see above. When you consider that, the toughest decision to make about buying a 7 Series doesn't come down to options or wheelbases or colors – it's choosing to ignore the shiny new S550 at the dealership next door.

source: autoblog

by Brandon Turkus

ImageCredit: Copyright 2015 Brandon Turkus/AOL

http://www.boscheuropean.com

Audi - Repair and Consignment Sales Redwood City - 2016 Audi S6 Review - Bosch European Redwood City - (650) 368-3000

Recently driving the Audi TT, we wish it were radically entertaining instead of merely very fun, it's nevertheless a sharp coupe that vaults ahead of its predecessor with an inspired interior and eager handling. That car will be precursor to this TTS when it gets here a year from now, with the TTS adding adjectives like "more" and "better" to just about everything found on the base coupe. With the standard car having already put on such a fine edge, we wheeled the TTS on Spanish roads and at the Ascari race track to find out how much better and higher-performing the S will be.

Driving Notes

• As of this writing, today's TTS commands an $8,350 premium over theTT. Assuming a commensurate gap is carried over into this next generation model, that supplemental dosh will get you 310 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque instead of 230 hp and 273 lb-ft in the standard TT. That would mean more for your money, too, since the gap between the current TT and TTS is 54 hp and zero lb-ft of torque. To achieve the new numbers, the 2.0 TSFI engine from the TTS benefits from upgrades like sturdier valves, revised aluminum pistons and stronger connecting rods with new bearings, a reinforced crankshaft and a high-performance intercooler. The amplified brawn rips 0.7 seconds off the 0-60 mile-per-hour time, getting you there in 4.6 seconds.
• But wait, there's more: The TTS comes standard with Audi magnetic ride and S sport seats with air-filled adjustable bolsters, gets lightweight aluminum brakes in front, is lowered by 0.4 inches (the S-line package does the same for the TT) and sits on 18-inch wheels as standard, with 19- and 20-inchers as options. If the badging alone doesn't do it, twin pipes at each rear corner identify it as a top-of-the-line model, as do the TTS-exclusive colors like Sepang Blue metallic and Panther Black Crystal Effect outside and Express Red leather inside.
• We aren't against buttons on a steering wheel in a sporty-minded car, but we often appreciate it when they're not there. However, button-laden spokes (there are 14 functions among all the glyphs) make the most sense in the bare, pure interior of the TTS; they bolster the impression of the driver-oriented cockpit because they aren't merely convenient redundancies, they're necessary elements of the only command center in the car. The TTS dash also gets what Audi calls a "honeycomb-like," "innovative technical laser texture" – what looks to us like dimples. They work, helping visually dilute the scope of the wide, black dashboard.
• The Sport Layout, exclusive to the TTS, further buttresses the sports car vibe. It fills the center of the 12.3-inch gauge binnacle screen with a tachometer, places a digital speedo inside of that and pushes supplemental information to the left and right. This helps the pilot focus on swapping cogs just before the 6,800-rpm redline when it's time to drive angry.
• That's exactly what we did around Ascari, forced to focus on the tachometer for the first few turns. The 2.0-liter four, a little boar of an engine, refuses to stop pulling until the digital red needle dips into the digital red numbers so we kept hitting the limiter until we learned the engine note. The TTS does everything just remarkable enough to prick the senses: its acceleration gets your attention, its brakes are good for both going deep into a corner and bailing you out of one, its steering (in Dynamic mode) combined with the proactive, adaptive Quattro software and the coupe's dexterity mean you can choose to put a wheel on the kerbing or on the inside of the white line next to the kerbing. Anvil-flat cornering stays almost as anvil flat through quick doglegs, and if you turn off electronic stability control, slight drifts are possible when you really push it. It's fun around a track.

Our opinion, however, is that the TTS is not $8,000-or-so more fun than the TT around a track or on the road. Unless you really just gotta have that badge, that Sepang Blue paint or that unique dash layout, we think you'll be plenty pleased with the regular-strength TT. Even though the standard model is down a not-insignificant 80 horsepower, it's got plenty of torque and it knows how to use it – we had such fun blasting around Spanish backroads in one that we never wished for more. The TTS is quicker, harder and better, sure. You won't go wrong choosing it, but by the same token, we'd be hard-pressed to find the need to splash out for its extra cost.

source: autoblog

by Jonathan Ramsey

Image credit: Jonathan Ramsey