The 2015 Audi TT Roadster has been officially revealed and from the pictures, it looks magnificent. There’s also a more performance-orientated version in the form of the TTS Roadster too, both cars will be shown off at this year’s 2014 Paris Motor Show.

The main drawcard to the 2015 Audi TT Roadster is not the looks, or even the engine, but rather the Audi virtual cockpit. It’s a completely digital instrument cluster, which gives the driver all the relevant info you’d need. Analogue speedos and rev counters are a thing of the past! The hype is massive and this virtual cockpit in the2015 Audi TT Roadster has resulted in numerous awards.

Dimensions and roof

In terms of dimensions the2015 Audi TT Roadster is a low-slung and sporty vehicle. Measuring 21mm shorter than the outgoing model, the two-seat sports car’s wheelbase has grown by 37mm, while the width sits at 1 831mm making it quite compact. The 2015 Audi TT Roadster tips the scales at 1 320kg. The roof is an electrically actuated fabric top unit and comes in three colours. It neatly integrates into the car’s design and is constructed out ofmagnesium, aluminum, steel and plastic. The top weighs just 39kg and is 3kg lighter than the predecessor.

It’s cleverly designed so it doesn’t affect the 280l luggage compartment and is able to open and close in just 10 seconds, even at at speeds of up to 50kph. The roof also has great thermal retaining qualities and noise insulation, which is ideal for those cooler climates.

2015 Audi TT Roadster performance and engines

Of course, the part you want to know about is the engines and performance. There are petrol and diesel engine choices with power ranging from 135 kW to 228 kW. The 2.0-litre TDI ultra has 135 kW and 380 Nm meaning its both sporty yet frugal. Audi is claiming it’ll consume just 4.3L/100km with 114g/CO2 coming out the back.

The 2.0-litre TFSI petrol has 169 kW and 370 Nm, while the hotter TTS has 228 kW and 380 Nm. Expect 0-100kph to come in under 5 seconds with top speed being a limited 250kph. You can have either a six-speed manual or six-speed S tronic dual clutch gearbox with your2015 Audi TT Roadster. A redeveloped version of Audi’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive is optionally available with the TT Roadster, while it comes standard onthe TTS. The TTS also comes standard with the Audi magnetic ride system.

Specification and sales

The sales of the2015 Audi TT Roadster will start after the 2014 Paris Auto Show in October with European pricing sitting at€37,900 (approx: R538 000 before SA duties) for the 2.0 TFSI.

Standard specification includes xenon plus headlights, air conditioning, and the MMI radio. The options list is extensive and well worth looking at. There’s an abundance of safety features like traffic sign recognition, active lane assist and automatic parking. The MMI navigation plus with MMI featuresGoogle Earth and Google Street View as well as Twitter and Facebook and even online music streaming.