The Audi TT is a compact sports car that is attractive on the outside, entertaining to drive, and incredibly convenient to own. It doesn’t feel nearly as sporty to drive as cars like the more powerful BMW 2 Series, but it has a fantastic interior and looks sportier than ever as a result of several minor mid-life changes.
Consider the front and rear bumpers, particularly on S-Line vehicles. Similar to the speedier TTS model, these have contrasting air intakes and a splitter that follows the ground. Additionally, the side skirts have sharp bulges that protrude behind the doors like chiseled cheeks, and you may order your TT in a variety of vibrant colors, from a classy blue to an especially garish orange.
The newest Audi TT doesn’t look all that different from the vehicle it replaces once you’re inside. Fortunately, that’s not a problem. The TT’s cabin stands out among tiny sports cars for its ability to be recognized right away thanks to its tidy trio of air vents, simple layout, and enormous digital driver’s display, which comes standard. It stands out more than the fairly unmemorable interior of the BMW 2 Series.
Sadly, the interior of the small Audi TT is much less roomy than that of the bigger BMW. Although there is enough of room for people to stretch out in the front seats, they are more of a showpiece than a functional option. The boot of the Audi is the same situation. Even though it is smaller than the BMW’s, there is still room for a few soft bags and compact luggage.
Simply fold the back seats down and use the Audi TT as a compact two-seater with a huge boot if it isn’t quite practical enough. Issue is resolved.
Most likely, you won’t be utilizing your Audi TT to transport large loads or a lot of passengers. It’s more likely that after a filling lunch on a calm Sunday afternoon, you’ll take the long way home. The Audi TT performs exceptionally well in this regard.
It feels incredibly agile in narrow country lanes because to its compact size and low weight, yet its 2-liter petrol engine nonetheless has enough power to make you smile when you hit the throttle, especially the more potent 245hp models.
Even these, with their more potent six-cylinder engine, aren’t as quick as the top-of-the-line BMW 2 Series, yet unlike the BMW
Four-wheel drive is an option for the Audi TT, which provides you a bit more confidence on slick roads and in inclement weather. Long drives can be rather enjoyable because it is even quite silent at high speeds. particularly if you choose a car with an automatic transmission.
This shifts gears fast and smoothly, and it reacts quickly to the steering wheel paddles. Around town, it can be a little jerky, and the Audi TT’s low-slung body makes it harder to fit through narrow width restrictions than it is in the more upright BMW. Although it may be ordered with a self-parking technology to lessen the chance of low-speed bumps and scrapes, when you’re caught in traffic on your daily commute, it will likely feel like a typical hatchback due to its light controls.
Actually, it is because of this that the Audi TT is such a superb all-arounder. When you don’t feel like having fun and simply want to get home, it handles like an Audi A3 but is a ton of fun to speed along a quiet backroad.
In This Article...
Is the Audi TT a reliable sports vehicle?
The Audi TT offers true sports car performance, a luxurious cabin, and seamless high-tech integration. In the new century, Audi aimed to wow its clients in the Americas. The new TT, a little and beautiful sports car with a 180-horsepower turbocharged engine, was unveiled.
Since its release in 2000, the TT has through three iterations and numerous model years and has earned positive reviews from both consumers and critics. Some years were quite well-regarded, while others weren’t. These Audi TT model years should be avoided.
Quick Answer: 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2016, 2017
The Audi TT is a classy, thrilling, and luxurious sports car with a wide range of options to meet your needs and preferences. Used Audi TTs are excellent options to take into consideration if you’re looking for a more affordable model. If that’s the one you’re interested in, several quite widespread problems occur over a few distinct model years and might be worth a closer examination.
The best way to purchase a car is with the CoPilot auto purchasing app. Get a curated selection of the top vehicles available in your region, as well as alerts when a comparable car is posted nearby for less. The best way to look for used automobiles is on CoPilot.
Major known issues:
- motor failure
- leaky water pump
- Repair expenses
- electric problems
First-generation Audi TTs have great looks and are fun to drive, but they could be difficult to maintain. Therefore, a 20-year-old Audi might not be the ideal choice if you’re looking for a trustworthy luxury sports car or just a trustworthy car in general.
From 2000 through 2006, there were 13 recalls on Audi TTs, including one for an issue with an aftermarket water pump replacement that might lead to the timing belt breaking and the motor cutting out. Furthermore, at least one more recall may result in engine failure. The bulk (30) of the 89 defects and complaints about the 2000 Audi TT’s electrical system have been submitted by its owners to Car Complaints.
Despite receiving positive reviews, the first-generation Audi TT (20002006) struggled in the German two-seater sports car market. The first few TTs were front-wheel drives (FWD), in contrast to the rear-wheel-drive (RWD) Boxster and Z3 of rivals Porsche and BMW (FWD). As a result, the TT’s performance was subpar when compared to that of its rivals.
The many model years of the Audi TT have seen recalls that range from inconveniences, such the problem with microfractures in the water pump pulley that may result in timing belt failure in the 20002006 Audi TTs, to perhaps life-threatening. These choices cannot possibly be deemed outstanding based solely on appearance.
Avoid TTs from 2000 to 2006 unless you can find one that has been meticulously taken care of with documented maintenance because they were quite tough and expensive to fix. Depending on the year, mileage, and condition, the first generation vehicles’ repair costs are predicted by Kelley Blue Book (KBB) to range from $1,100 to $7,200.
Most cars will eventually be recalled, however some may happen more frequently than others. First-generation Audi TT recalls frequently involve faulty water pumps that could cause the timing belt to fail, faulty airbags, and possible fuel tank leaks.
Common complaints and recalls
- Airbags
- Leaky fuel tanks
- defective water pumps
- electrical malfunction
A significant revamp gave the second-generation Audi TT a more aggressive appearance. The second generation of Audi TTs are wider and longer than their predecessors, and the powerful 386-horsepower TT RS was introduced in late 2011.
Modern technology was added to and a radical redesign of third-generation TTs was made. With 400 horsepower, the third-generation Audi TT RS is the fastest and most potent TT ever made. There are some recalls and flaws that are more serious for newer models than for older ones.
These are the ideal vehicles for college students since they can transport you, your friends, and your belongings everywhere you need to go, whether you need to squeeze into a small campus parking space or transport ten loads of laundry home.
- airbag malfunction
- tank of fuel leak
The model years 2016 and 2017 Audi TT Roadster and Coupe are frequently regarded as the worst because of the high number of recalls and consumer complaints. The driver’s front airbag in the 20162017 Audi TT vehicles has been recalled by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) owing to the possibility for injury or death to the occupants of the vehicle.
Owners were reportedly informed by Volkswagen, and dealers started installing a free new inflator. However, the situation should be looked into before buying a used 20162017 Audi TT.
Due to their involvement in yet another big NHTSA recall, the 2016 Audi TT Roadster Quattro and TT Coupe Quattro vehicles are especially concerning. The affected vehicle’s heat shield has a flaw that can cause the gasoline tank to collapse after a collision, increasing the risk of a fire.
The third generation Audi TTs that were subject to the recall included all models. To address the recall, the makers had to start adding a cover over the fuel tank heat shield bracket. Aside from significant recalls, they are renowned for having loud, squeaky brakes, little internal storage space, and little legroom. These may seem like no-brainers for a sports car, yet TT drivers frequently voice these grievances.
- Costs of fuel tank repairs
- a little car’s legroom
- noisy brakes
What are some great models for buyers of secondhand cars, despite the fact that there are many Audi TT model years to avoid? In general, the second generation has few known recalls or unresolved problems, and many people would choose the 2012 TT model years. It is well regarded by owners and has had no big recalls. The 2012 Audi TT succeeds at satisfying the needs of used car buyers who seek something dependable, cozy, and fashionable.
You’re looking to buy a used car, then. We have already prepared a list of crucial inquiries to make while purchasing a secondhand car.
Most of the higher-rated TT model years may be found in the second generation (2007-2015). They offer a contemporary design, fresh engine choices like the 2.0-liter turbo, and lots of luxury, all with fewer recalls than the TT’s predecessor. For the entire generation, there were only a small number of recalls, and the most of them were regarded as minor cosmetic issues rather than serious safety concerns.
By choosing a used car, you can save some money, and the second generation is new enough to have many of the third generation’s new features.
Is the Audi TT Reliable?
Sports automobiles are generally avoided by consumers because of their bad reputation for dependability and impracticality. Does the Audi TT sports car fit that description? Evidently not, as the Audi TT offers the best of both worldsor, if you prefer, the best of both worldssports car performance and looks and reliability.
With 4.3 percent of front-wheel-drive Audi TTs still being driven after 150,000 km, iSeeCars rated it as the most dependable sports vehicle. The TT is a luxury sports car with superb features that encourage dependability. Given how Volkswagen consistently raises the bar, the new ones should be even better.
Yes, there are several Audi TT years to avoid, but for the most part, you’ll be in good hands.
Get a Curated List of the Best Used Cars Near You
The simplest way to purchase a car is using the CoPilot auto shopping app. You may create a customized list of the top car listings in your area by telling us what you’re looking for, and we’ll search the inventories of every dealership in your area.
Just seeking for more recent models? The search engine for virtually new vehicles is CoPilot Compare. only observe recentfive years or lessautos with little mileage. The greatest place to look for off-lease, early trade-in, and CPO vehicles is CoPilot Compare.
What’s best? We have more information on each vehicle than our rivals since CoPilot was developed using the same technologies that dealerships use to acquire and sell their inventories. Since CoPilot doesn’t partner with automakers, there aren’t any sponsored posts or other dubious tacticsjust the most information about the best vehicles. To learn more about CoPilot’s operation, see our About Us page.
What kind of vehicle is the Audi TT roadster?
The TT Roadster is a true two-seat sports vehicle, in contrast to the TT Coupe, which is officially a 2+2. The TT’s size may give you the impression that the interior is small, but there is surprisingly ample head and legroom for two six-footers. Standard neck-level heating, extended leather trim, and Fine Nappa leather S sports seats all contribute to the upscale and opulent atmosphere that is in keeping with the best traditions of Audi. The driver can easily access all the controls, and the vehicle is really well made. Ingress and egress aren’t difficult thanks to the standard 12-way power-adjustable front seats with four-way power lumbar support. However, the lengthy doors require extra caution when opened in smaller places, as is the case with many two-door cars.
Is driving an Audi TT enjoyable?
Verdict The TT is attractive, entertaining to drive, and it has an interesting interior, but it falls short of the exhilarating performance of comparable sports cars in terms of performance.
What sort of individual operates an Audi TT?
They frequently claim that particular drivers will purchase particular automobile models or manufacturers. Whether you like a 4X4 or a convertible, it’s sometimes claimed that your vehicle represents your personality.
Let’s examine a few of the more well-known brands to find out what they might reveal about the owners and drivers of those brands:
Audi
Audi, formerly thought to be only for the middle class, is now the go-to vehicle for young adults seeking gorgeous interiors, snappy engines, and stellar reputations.
Undoubtedly one of the most well-liked vehicles on the road, the Audi TT is frequently ridden by managers and office workers with a passion for sports.
BMW
BMW is currently seen as a car for people in their thirties who are from middle-class backgrounds and used to be a car for people in their twenties.
This may be especially true if you drive a BMW Z4, according to Admiral research, which revealed that owners of the model are more likely to enjoy DIY projects, cycling, and have a 17% chance of speeding.
Mercedes
A brand that may have slipped from favor over the previous several years, the Mercedes X-latest Class’s introduction has helped it re-enter the chic crowd just a little bit.
The wealthy and powerful have historically preferred Mercedes vehicles, so having one parked in your driveway will undoubtedly boost your reputation in the community.
The A-Class, in example, is “driven by middle-aged housewives who ‘pop’ to get groceries, so there’s also that to consider about,” according to etiquette expert William Hanson.
Range Rover
Range Rovers are the preferred vehicles of Premiership footballers, as was covered in our previous column, and are essential for young people trying to impress.
Range Rovers are favored by persons in middle management roles because they provide luxury and power at an affordable price and feature interiors created by Victoria Beckham.
Despite the nation’s love for the brand, they are frequently perceived by some as enormous kid delivery units (perhaps unfairly).
Volvo
Volvos, allegedly the manufacturer of the safest vehicles on the road, are frequently observed being purchased by educators and people who enjoy reading The Guardian.
The latter assertion may include some reality, given the manufacturer recently declared that it would only make electric or hybrid vehicles by 2019.
But for those who are concerned about coming out as snobby, it’s important to keep in mind that the Volvo is a family brand that still has enough of punch at launch.