2007 Audi TT By Greg N. Brown, New Car Test Drive .com

Audi is launching an all-new version of its TT sports car. The 2007 Audi TT, which debuts in Europe this year, doesn't hit U.S. showrooms until early in 2007, first in coupe form and then later as a roadster.

When it was launched in 1998, the Audi TT was hailed as an icon of automotive design, with the 2+2 sports coupe's flowing lines cloaking an athletic chassis and responsive family of powertrains. As difficult as it might be to improve an icon, Audi seems to have done so with its new TT.

The completely new TT carries on the "circles and domes" design language that distinguished the first generation, but it's now 5 inches longer and about 3 inches wider than its predecessor and features numerous technical improvements.

Among those technical improvements is the extensive use of aluminum in the car's structure, which not only reduces power-robbing weight but provides more strength than a conventional steel configuration. Steel components are used in the rear of the car to help provide balanced weight distribution and enhance the handling.

Handling is expected to further benefit from a new multi-link rear suspension, wider track and larger wheels, up to 19 inches in size. A new option is Audi's magnetic ride damper system, which automatically adjusts shock absorber settings for optimum ride comfort and driving dynamics. An automatic rear spoiler deploys at high speed to further improve the TT's behavior at the limits by generating aerodynamic downforce to the rear wheels, just the thing for those 80-mph sweepers in the rain.

Passenger comfort has been improved via redesigned seating, a less intrusive center console, fully automatic climate control system, and a new, flat-bottomed three-spoke steering wheel that aids climbing in and out of the driver's seat. The TT is also getting Audi's MMI multi-media interface found in the A6, A8, and Q7. Bluetooth and voice activation for the optional navigation system are also available. Adaptive lighting and park distance control are among a number of other new options. The TT's cabin continues the design motifs established in the first generation, highlighted by the round, aluminum-accented dash vents and instruments.

Despite its swoopy looks, the TT's luggage space, easily accessible through the large rear hatch, can carry a significant amount of cargo, especially when the rear seats are folded.

Two engines, both carryovers from current Audi models, are being offered: a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 200 horsepower and 3.2-liter V6 with an output of 250 horsepower. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, while Audi's terrific S tronic dual-clutch automatic gearbox is optional. At introduction in Europe, the four-cylinder is matched to a front-drive chassis, while the V6 is fitted to Audi's four-wheel-drive Quattro system.

Pricing won't be announced until the car hits the streets, but we're guessing it'll be in the mid-$30,000s.