Audi’s half moon-shaped fashionista, the TT is getting a bit of a nip/tuck for 2011. Both the hardtop and roadster receive modestly refreshed exteriors and interiors, along with a new 2.0-liter TFSI four-cylinder model whose 211 horses gallop with an eye toward superior fuel economy (Audi claims fuel economy of nearly 36 miles-per-gallon on the combined European cycle). This is the same revamped four-banger that has been appearing in engine bays throughout the German automaker’s lineup, and while its horsepower increase is modest over the 2010 model (+11), the use of Audi’s Valvelift system helps the engine generate a big slug of torque – 258 pound-feet of the stuff – a healthy 51 lb-ft. more than its predecessor. Audi says that all-wheel drive equipped TT will hit 62 mph in 5.6 seconds, so performance hasn’t suffered, either. For the U.S. market, there’s still no sign of a manual gearbox, but we’ve professed our love for the company’s six-speed S Tronic dual-clutch in the past and expect it to once again be an astute partner here.
We didn’t expect Audi to go crazy with the TT’s mid-cycle refresh and true to form, they’ve exercised due restraint. The 2011 receives bigger air inlets up front, a shinier gloss black grille finish, and, of course, Audi’s fast-becoming-compulsory LED daytime running lamps (as seen on the higher-performance TTS model). Inspect the car’s rounded rump and you’ll find a new flat black rear diffuser, (very) modestly retouched taillamps, and new exhaust outlets. New paint colors include Scuba Blue, Oolong Gray, Volcano Red and Dakota Gray.
The interior has received the hand of refinement as well, with a trio of new cabin colors, leather that’s been specially treated to resist solar heat, and are a few new aluminum bits of trim.
Audi has yet to release U.S. pricing information, but we’ll be sure to update you when it comes through. In the meantime, check out our high-res gallery below and the official press release after the jump.