Audi has unveiled the first version of its TT Coupe sports car to feature a 3.2-litre, six-cylinder engine and new transmission technology.

The new coupe

The combination of the 3.2-litre engine with 250 horsepower 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.

Audi says the driver benefits from agility, driving enjoyment and economy, as well as convenient operation and smooth acceleration with uninterrupted traction.

Audi says 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 pre-selected 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 Rohrl successfully tested it in a Audi Sport quattro S1.

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. The market launch is scheduled for mid-2003.