It’s a pretty feminine car, the Audi TT. Its size, dinkyness, and low seating position are akin to the best roadsters and coupes. It may be a little roadster or coupe, but is it the best that money can buy?
While significantly less expensive than an Audi TT, the Mazda MX-5 has much less power. Although the Mercedes SLK may have a prettier appearance than the Audi TT, an all-wheel drive variant is not available.
To find out if the Audi TT is the vehicle to replace your Nissan Micra with, let’s take a closer look at it.
The TT from Audi is stunning. It has significantly more aesthetic appeal than the previous bubble-shaped model, and both the roadster and the coupe versions have a noticeable presence on the road. The Audi TT Black Edition 2.0 TDI, which combines efficiency and speed, is my favorite model. The front grill, window accents, and alloy wheels on that are all glossy black. Standard on Sport models are 17-inch alloy wheels, while S Line trim adds sportier, lower-profile 17-inch wheels. Both vehicles are gorgeous, but the S Line variant has sportier bumpers and a sportier interior.
There is significant performance available in every Audi TT now on the road. There is a selection of engines, including a 1.8 TFSI with 160 PS, a 2.0 TFSI with 211 PS, and a 2.0 TDI with 170 PS and significantly greater torque than its petrol rivals. The 2.0 TDI, which is the exact same engine as the Golf GTD, is my favorite. Its mid-range grunt is amazing, and when combined with the TT’s low profile, it makes for a lot of fun. In addition, the TT TDI is significantly more fuel-efficient on lengthy trips than TFSI variants, making it a useful tool for businesswomen. All engines come with a fast, gorgeous 6-speed manual transmission, but the S Tronic is excellent for the laid-back cruiser. The TT is quiet at highway speeds and does an excellent job of absorbing all the bad roads you’ll encounter.
The cabin of the Audi TT is the prettiest of any sub-$30,000 vehicle on the road. The craftsmanship is exquisite, and everything has a delicate touch. All TTs come with leather or alcantra seats as standard equipment, but full leather is an additional 560. The interior has stylish chrome and aluminum accents, and the S Line grade adds firmer seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel, and lots of S Line emblems. Due to the smart suspension and high-quality tyres, the interior is a pleasant place to be on long trips, and the driver’s position is great thanks to many rake and reach adjustments.
As I previously stated, the 2.0 TDI is my favorite model in the TT lineup. It only comes with all-wheel drive and has a combined mileage of 53.3 mpg. On a combined cycle, the 1.8 TFSI will deliver 44.1 mpg, while the 2.0 TFSI will deliver 42.8 mpg. All engine configurations are fuel-efficient, but for shorter trips, gasoline engines will perform better while TDIs are excellent for longer trips. Pick the engine that works best for the majority of your driving.
The Audi TT Coupe is available in the following tiers: TTS Coupe, TT RS Coupe, TT Coupe Sport, TT Coupe Sport S Line, and TT Coupe Sport Black Edition. There are three versions of the Audi TT Roadster: the TT, TTS, and TT RS. The majority of consumers will choose the reasonably priced entry-level TT models, but for those looking for supercar-like performance, the TTRS is impossible to ignore. Additionally, a variety of features, such heated seats, are available as extras.
The Audi TT is a unique, elegant, and entertaining car to drive that retains its value well. The TT looks terrific even in base Sport trim, and the Black Edition is the most athletic car you can buy without purchasing a TTS or TTRS. When driving, the TT is swift and comfortable, and all of its engines perform well. For the businesswoman who commutes across the nation, I would choose the 2.0 TDI, which provides 90% of the thrills of a gasoline vehicle while having much lower operating costs. The 2.0 TFSI will do the thing for women who adore smoking small lads and driving fast in their hot hatchbacks, and it also has a very good soundtrack.
When purchasing brand-new, be sure to choose your extras wisely as this will enable you to negotiate a lower price at a later date.
In This Article...
Is an Audi TT a car for hairdressers?
An updated Audi TT is significant. The sales of the omnipresent sports car’s two closest rivals, the BMW Z4 and Mercedes SLK, combined in the last ten years in the UK.
Customers responded favorably to the first-generation TT’s striking appearance and curved body when it debuted in 1998. While the general public adored the vehicle, many car enthusiasts bemoaned its “style over substance” philosophy; as a result, the TT earned the moniker “hairdresser’s car.”
The TT has always been designed with posers in mind, which is a concern for many petrolheads. It is considered a horrific crime by keyboard warriors for a car to look so sporty but not have the power to make B-roads whimper.
The driving characteristics of the second-generation TT, which debuted in 2006, were greatly enhanced, but it was still unable to overcome its unimpeachable reputation. In order to find out the answer to this question, we traveled to a soggy Scotland. Can the third-generation Audi TT live up to its reputation as a driver’s car?
I decline Audi’s offer of an umbrella and confidently march into the morning downpour because I’m expecting the car will have shed its snobbish past and require Chuck Norris levels of manliness to drive. With my keys in hand, I take a little step forward as Scotland tries to wash my flimsy attempts at manhood away.
Even though we’re here to talk about the vehicle’s performance, the Audi TT feature wouldn’t be complete without a discussion on the vehicle’s appearance. The new car has a 911-level design revolution, to put it simply. It differs almost imperceptibly from the A-pillar back. Its dimensions are essentially the same as those of the outgoing vehicle, but in an effort to enhance handling, the wheelbase has been extended by 37mm to 2505mm.
The front is more stunning, though the back may be a little monotonous. In their stead, pointed, angular characteristics that are reminiscent of the stunning Sport Quattro concept from last year have taken the place of the normally curved TT lines. The bulky grille, enormous air intakes, and scowling headlamps all serve to emphasize the vehicle’s more hostile appearance.
The vertical LED headlamps imitate those found in the LMP race car, for example, and the Audi team made a big show of the company’s motorsport history and performance credentials during the pre-drive news conference. Therefore, if this vehicle doesn’t drive like a small R8 the internet will literally take out their pitchforks. It looks the part and draws inspiration from sports.
I slam the door tight and settle in after escaping Scotland’s best weather offers. Although I know you’re curious in what it feels like to place your right foot against the firewall, I need to first discuss this room’s interior. To say that this is the best interior I’ve ever been in would not be an exaggeration. There have been finer interiors and more numerous racing interiors, but none have been as exquisitely designed as the interior of this TT.
We are all aware of how luxurious and luxurious Audi interiors are, but the game has changed. This vehicle is the first Audi to include the Virtual Cockpit technology, which is controlled by a 12.3-inch LCD screen in the instrument binnacle. The satellite navigation takes up the entire screen, and depending on your desire, you may switch between large and small speed/rev dials.
The steering wheel controls allow you to make any additional adjustments that would typically be placed in the center console while keeping your eyes on the road ahead. The main drawback is that passengers find it difficult to play with things, but that may possibly be a good thing.
The climate controls, which are built into the fan nozzles, almost overshadow the Virtual Cockpit. The vents themselves resemble jet turbine engines, and in the center is a small turnable dial with an LCD that shows the temperature, fan speed, or temperature of the heated seats. Although it’s a small feature, it’s nicely done, and you wonder why no one else has thought of it before. It contributes to maintaining the center console’s cleanliness and order, resulting in a tidy, driver-focused cabin that is genuinely enjoyable to operate.
But enough with the pretentiousness. It is instantly apparent that the new TT will continue to appeal to those of us who are fashion-conscious, but it’s time to hit the open road to determine if it is the kind of vehicle that you and I would want to purchase.
Since it’s raining (have I mentioned that it’s pouring?) it’s maybe fitting that the hottest car on the market right now, which is also the one I obviously choose, has Audi’s renowned quattro all-wheel drive technology.
Although it seems rapid, the 2.0-liter TFSI engine only produces 227 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. The highest speed is electronically limited to 155 mph, and the amazing S tronic automatic transmission can accelerate the car from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds.
The new TT’s lightweight design helps make those headline numbers quite astounding. VW’s steel MQB platform serves as its foundation, but almost everything above the floor is built of aluminum. As a result, the car’s kerb weight is reduced by 50 kg from the previous generation, to 1305 kg.
There aren’t many better automobiles if you want something fashionable and practical during the week that will allow you to loosen up a bit on the weekends.
And it’s palpable. The quattro system works its magic in these circumstances, ensuring that every exuberant combination of throttle and steering angle is effectively managed. Turn-in is abrupt. I have a large grin on my face as I navigate through quick sweepers and mid-speed curves, the Scottish highlands doing their best to throw surprise yumps and off-camber turns my way.
But, and there is a but, I’m not left hankering for another shot after getting out of the car. The S tronic gearbox is as flawless as ever, and the car is incredibly capable, yet it lacks interest. I always support the VW Group’s DSG; I don’t get sentimental about manualstrust me, I’d choose the Leon Cupra with paddle shifters any day of the weekbut I pondered whether the manual may have provided the thrills I craved.
I exit the S-tronic-equipped TT and board a another vehicle with three pedals. It is instantly obvious that Audi did a fantastic job with this transmission. With its barely noticeable biting point, the clutch is a delight to use. Simply elevate your left foot with ease for consistently perfect changes. The stick itself allows for rapid and accurate cog changes; the entire set-up is excellent.
However, I still have mixed feelings about the new Audi TT. Everything about it functions flawlessly, including the engine’s quick linear power distribution, the self-assured quattro all-wheel drive system, and whichever gearbox suits your taste. But everything seems a little too capable. The thrill-seeking portion of your brain may be left wanting because there is so little fuss made over the amount of ground it covers.
If you’re tempted to take a loan against your funds to buy one, you won’t be let down. In our testing, the Coupe Sport versions ranged in price from 29,860 for the front-wheel drive manual to 32,750 for the quattro S tronic. Additionally, there is a 29,770 front-wheel drive diesel that would be quite desirable as a company vehicle.
There aren’t many better automobiles if you want something fashionable and practical during the week but will allow you to have a little fun on the weekends, especially if you live somewhere with unpredictable weather. But stay away if you prefer your cars to be abrasive and demanding.
Has Audi already done enough to dispel its previous reputation as a hairdresser? Simply said, absolutely. The new TT is a phenomenally capable car that will throw you across the terrain without even breaking a sweat. It might not be the most engaging driving in the world, though.
The TTS offers hope for individuals who have a more cruel side, though. 306 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque are produced by the 2.0 four-pot engine when optimized. It will be faster than a standard 911 Carrera for roughly half the price with a 0-62mph pace of just 4.7 seconds. Deliveries to the UK will start in March 2015, and we’ll be sure to test drive one to see if all that extra power results in a louder ride.
Audi TT: A luxury vehicle?
The Audi TT in 2021 is a respectable luxury sports car. The TT is impressive because to its precise steering, nimble handling, and enthusiastic turbocharged acceleration. It comes in coupe and convertible body types, both of which offer premium interior materials, comfortable front seats, and a variety of simple-to-use technological amenities.
Is Audi TT a nice vehicle?
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.