New Audi Concept C teases all-electric TT at Munich Motor show

Just two years after the TT’s quiet retirement, Audi’s already hatching plans for a replacement. But what does the sophisticated Concept C tell us about the upcoming roadster? We visited Munich to find out.

Much has changed in the world since Audi first revealed its gleaming coupe vision — the original TT Concept — at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show. For one, the advent of the internet dealt international motor shows an irreparable blow — shrinking, and even extinguishing, many once glamorous automotive displays. 

It’s fitting then, that Audi’s chosen one of the world’s last-standing motoring soirées to resurrect the iconic TT. In fact, it’s the very same show — albeit rebranded and relocated to Munich — that the genesis Bauhaus coupe debuted. And, judging by the sprawling queue formed outside the Concept C’s grand exhibit, the public still has a soft spot for the stylish two door. 

Such was the clamour surrounding the Concept’s revolving stand, you’d never guess global car shows (and the roadster segment) were suffering. But is the buzz more than just the product of simple retro novelty? We think so.

Sure, Audi’s clearly twanging at the heart strings of those who loved the original with that design. From the Titanium silver paint finish to the blocky wheels and upright grille, it’s obvious the designers studied the MK1 TT closely. However, move round the back and the wide shoulders, slimline taillights, and aggressive diffuser, feel more R8 super car to our eyes. Unlike both of those machines, though, the Concept C (and presumably the road-going successor), sports an electrically retractable hardtop roof. 

Inside, there’s a similar union of heritage, minimalism, and metallic accents. Refreshingly, you’re greeted by just one screen when you get behind the wheel — a second foldable display is hidden in the dash to keep the lines clean. Then, the next thing you notice is the air of solidity and quality which oozes from the anodized aluminium switchgear and chunky grab handles. Oh, and each button responds with a satisfying ‘Audi click’ to cement that premium feeling.

So it’s a winning design, but is there actually anything hidden under that monolithic body? Yes, there is. Sharing a platform with the upcoming Boxster, the new Concept C features a mid-mounted battery pack. That’s right, the new TT’s gone electric. And, if you ask us, it’s a stellar EV candidate. Afterall, the original was never a raw, hardcore sports car like the Lotus Elise. Instead, the MK1 TT was all about an entertaining wind-in-the-hair driving experience, but one which didn’t compromise comfort or touring ability. That means a smooth yet powerful electric drivetrain — of which we don’t yet know all the details — could help the new TT to redefine the segment and blow cars like MG’s futuristic-but-flawed Cyberster out the water.

We’re certainly intrigued to see how much of the Concept C’s muscular design language makes it to production — and what sort of performance that EV setup will offer. In the meantime, though, Ingolstadt’s assurance that this show car is ‘the trailblazer that forges the future of Audi’, has got us excited.

But what do you think? Is the Concept C a fitting sequel to one history’s most recognisable convertibles? And, do you think electric power is the right route for TT to take? Watch this space for more details.

Hero image credit: Blackcircles.com