quattro permanent all-wheel drive

quattro permanent all-wheel drive is a powerful unique selling point in the segment for the new TT Roadster* and TTS Roadster*. Many aspects of the quattro technology for transverse-mounted engines have been redesigned for even better dynamics, even greater safety and even more driving pleasure.

The heart of the quattro drivetrain, the electrohydraulically actuated and electronically controlled multi-plate clutch, eliminates the pressure accumulator used in the previous generation, making it 1.4 kilograms (3.1 lb) lighter. To the benefit of the axle load distribution, the clutch is located at the end of the propshaft, in front of the rear axle differential. An electrically driven axial piston pump forces the packages of plates inside the clutch together on demand with a maximum pressure of 38 bar. The higher the oil pressure, the more engine power is transferred steplessly from the front to the rear axle.

To ensure the rapid development of pressure, the pump continuously circulates a certain volume of oil during normal driving. This pre-supply is switched off, however, if is not needed, such as when the driver selects efficiency mode in Audi drive select. Temporarily switching it off reduces CO₂ emissions by up to 1.5 grams per kilometer (2.4 g/mi). It is immediately reactivated if the grip level on the road decreases or the driver adopts a sportier driving style.

Oriented toward the driving dynamics: management of the quattro drivetrain
The electronic management of the multi-plate clutch is precisely tailored to the new compact sports car. It works together with torque vectoring, a function of the Electronic Stabilization Control (ESC), and is also networked with the Audi drive select system (standard on the TTS Roadster, optional for the TT Roadster). The controller is strongly oriented on handling parameters such as steering angle.

If Audi drive select is set to dynamic and the ESC is set to Sport, the quattro drivetrain reveals its full dynamic potential. The clutch now transfers a portion of the power from the front to the rear axle upon turn-in. As soon as the driver steps on the accelerator, the forces press the Roadster into the bend – spontaneously, with no initial understeer.

Safe drifts are possible under load on low-friction road surfaces. The front axle straightens out the car when exiting the bend. On dry roads, up to 50 percent of the power is transferred to the rear axle. When the front axle has very little grip, this can be as much as 100 percent.

The equipment, data and prices specified in this document refer to the model range offered in Germany. Subject to change without notice; errors and omissions excepted.