Audi TT Sportback will debut in China and is based on MQB platform
We’ve known that the Audi TT Sportback is on the way ever since the concept version made its debut at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. Now we have a date of its official launch and a venue – some surprise that it will take place in China at the Guangzhou Auto Show November 20th. This bit of news was reported by Chinese automotive publication info.xcar.com.cn
The reason for its reveal in China is simple, even if one would theorise that a European manufacturer would want to stick to the shows closer to home. Traditionally the Chinese market has demanded a big uptake of spacious vehicles which rules out the regular Audi TT but very much favours the idea of a Sportback version with similar handling and performance traits.
Fractionally smaller than the Audi A3 Sedan this 4.47 metre TT will be pitched against Mercedes CLA but we’re tempted to say the Audi looks the better of the two – the CLA needing plenty of additional costly cosmetics before looking good.
Aside from its radical design the TT Sportback isn’t all the different underneath. Assembled in the same plant as the roadster (not in SA) and the Coupe it features the same modular MQB platform. Engines will be similar too with a 169kW 2.0-litre TFSI engine, up to 228kW in its highest state of tune. We’d even be willing to say that a 2.5-litre TFSI engine of RS makings will follow to match up against the CLA A45 AMG. Again drive will be offered in front or Quattro with manual and S-tronic gearboxes making up the range.
