Audi simplifies new TT cabin design

AUDI has stepped outside the box to reveal the forthcoming new-generation TT’s high-tech interior design well ahead of the sportscar’s world debut later in 2014.

At once both simple and retro, the dash design has a driver-focused layout befitting Audi’s sporting intentions. But despite the clean look, Audi promises an all-new generation of electronics and connectivity features.

Fittingly, the cabin is on display at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week. A sizeable number of car brands are using the show this year to preview the latest in in-car technologies.

Arguably the most intriguing element of the new TT’s cabin comes from Audi’s decision to shift the digital display to the instrument panel in front of the driver’s sight-line, allowing designers to pare back the central fascia to the bare bones: essentially, toggles to adjust the driving modes and auto park system.

3D navigation and infotainment is displayed on this 12.3-inch TFT monitor, flanked by regular gauges for speed and revs. Drivers can make the regular gauges larger or smaller against the navigation screen via a pair of display modes called ‘classic’ and ‘infotainment’.

Below the snazzy screen is a chunky, flat-bottomed steering wheel swathed in leather and aluminium. Audi says the wheel-mounted buttons control most functions – but whatever they don’t, the redesigned MMI dial on the transmission tunnel will.

Of sharp relief to enthusiasts will be the six-speed manual gearbox shifter located ahead of this dial. Many brands are moving away from conventional manual gearboxes, but it seems Audi’s desire to keep the cabin simple carries over to the powertrain as well.

Audi says the aim has been to reduce the number of buttons, switches, screens and dials. The slimmed-down and pared-back design, it says, allows its to visually convey its lightweight design principles. Reading between the lines, expect the new TT to feature even more aluminium.

The familiar rounded air vents remain a feature on the new TT, as they have since the model’s inception. They now resemble jet turbines more than ever, with curved fins, while the temperature controls are located on the central nodes.