Recent spy shots confirmed that Audi has been preparing a mid-cycle facelift for the TT to keep the current model fresh for a few more years. However, we weren’t expecting it to break cover until later this year as a public debut isn’t expected to happen until the Paris Auto Show in October.
As expected, changes applied to the 2019 Audi TT coupe and roadster are relatively mild. Both models feature refined exterior styling, more standard equipment and new engine options. The 2019 Audi TT arrives with a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine available with two different tunes in three trims: 40 TFSI, 45 TFSI, and 45 TFSI Quattro.
The base 40 TFSI engine produces 197 horsepower and 236 lb-ft of torque, while the 45 TFSI and TFSI Quattro powertrains deliver 245 hp and 272 lb-ft of torque. The TTS, on the other hand, has been tuned to deliver 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. 0-62 mph in the TTS coupe takes 4.5 seconds, while the roadster takes 4.8 seconds, shaving a tenth of a second off the previous model's sprint time.
The front-wheel-drive 40 TFSI and 45 TFSI come with either a six-speed manual or seven-speed S Tronic transmission, while the 45 TFSI Quattro trim is only available with a seven-speed S Tronic. The TTS comes with Quattro all-wheel drive and the seven-speed S Tronic transmission as standard. For the 2019 facelift, the entry-level TT comes with much more standard equipment.
As standard, you now get the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, heated mirrors, light and rain sensors, a multifunction steering wheel, and the Audi virtual cockpit. Illuminated USB ports and Bluetooth connectivity also now comes as standard along with 17-inch wheels. The TTS comes with 18-inch wheels, or optional 19- or 20-inch wheels can be fitted instead.
On first glance, you’d be forgiven for thinking the 2019 Audi TT looks the same as the outgoing model. The changes are subtle but help make the new TT look sportier and more aggressive. At the front, the 2019 TT features a large 3D Singleframe grille, larger side air inlets and a sharp design line adorning the side of the body. The TTS also looks more aggressive thanks to a new front splitter and a wider rear diffuser.
To mark the 20th anniversary of the TT, Audi is also launching two new special edition models. Limited to 999 units, the “Audi TT 20 years” features styling cues inspired by the original Roadster concept from 1999 including arrow gray paint, Matrix OLED rear lights, glossy metal gray 19-inch wheels, stainless steel tailpipes and unique badging. Joining the TT 20 Years special edition model is the TT S line competition, which expands the S line exterior package to give the trim an unique appearance. Inside, there’s an additional sport screen in the Audi virtual cockpit and contrasting colored stitching.
There’s no word on US availability yet, but the 2019 Audi TT will arrive in Europe in Q4 2018 with pre-orders starting in September so it will probably arrive in America next year. The TT coupe starts at 35,050 euros ($40,859) while the roadster starts at 37,500 euros $43,708. The TTS coupe and roadster also arrive in Europe later this year starting at 54,500 euros ($63,523) and 57,500 euros ($67,015).
