There’s been significant buzz about the new Audi TT dashboard, and Audi interiors in general. It seems that the automaker is content to talk about interiors at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas this week, and reveal the exterior redesigns at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit next week.
The new Audi TT dashboard is getting a 12.3-inch LCD screen that shows off maps, navigation, speed and RPMs in beautiful, sharp detail. This might have had more impact if done seven years ago before we all had beautiful displays installed in our phones, but Audi is at least leading the pack of traditional gauge display automakers.
The new dash will have two modes: “Classic” which emphasizes digital representations of the speedometer and tachometer, and “Infotainment” which lets navigation and other display options occupy the bulk of the screen. As long as there isn’t a hypnotic screensaver option, all should be excellent.
The new LCD display will not be touchscreen, however—a wise choice, we think, to avoid tangling arms and hands reaching over the steering wheel to make adjustments. Instead, commands will be input via a “multi-media interface control knob.” That and a healthy amount of voice commands, we’re guessing.
The new Audi interior looks much more pared down compared to previous iterations, which makes sense because the brand is touting the redesign for its lightness. Gone are all the buttons, switches and knobs popular on other center consoles that draw attention away from the road. Instead, Audi is opting for more intuitive, function-based controls, like the temperature knobs installed directly in the cabin vents.
In a design similar to the home thermostat made by Nest, temperature in the TT is clearly displayed via a circular screen, which you twist to either cool or heat the cabin. It’s a small touch, but svelte, minimalist and entirely natural looking.
Stay tuned to our coverage of Audi at NAIAS next week.