Audi TT Goes Diesel: A Sports Car that Gets 44.4 mpg

Audi TT Turbo Diesel Red

We're not exactly the biggest fans of cars, but as long people drive them, they might as well pick the most efficient model that fits their needs. In the small sports car category, Audi is introducing a diesel version of its TT Coupe Quattro and Roadster Quattro.

The 2.0 liter turbo-diesel engine (algae-based biodiesel will be available soon, we hope) generates 170 hp of power and 258.15 lb-ft of torque. It meets the Euro 5 standard for emissions, and fuel economy is 44.4 mpg (5.3 liters per 100 km ) on the TT Coupe and slightly lower on the heavier Roadster.

Audi TT Turbo Diesel Red

These things are pretty fast too:

The TT Coupe quattro with the 2.0 TDI accelerates from zero to 100 kph (62 mph) in 7.5 seconds and achieves a top speed of 226 kph (140 mph).

Audi has made efforts to reduce weight: "Front components are made of aluminum and utilize Space Frame technology; rear components are made of steel. This solution guarantees that the frame is as rigid as possible and optimizes load distribution between the axles." The TT Coupe weighs 1,370 kilograms (3,020 lbs) when empty, which is about the same a Prius. Somehow it seems like it could be lighter, but maybe the Quattro AWD system is the problem. How about making a non Quattro version, Audi?

So while this is not exactly a green car, it is interesting to see a sports car that gets better fuel economy than many much less powerful models. This shows some of the benefits of diesel (when emissions are dealt with and low sulfur fuel is available) and of aerodynamic vehicles.

As long as people buy sports cars, we'd rather see them buy one that gets 44 miles per gallon than one that gets 15. At least until something better, such as electric sports cars, is on the market.

::Audi Puts A Diesel in the TT; First Diesel-Equipped Series-Production Sports Cars