The third-generation (2016-2021) Audi TT is the best option if you want an Audi TT with more modern conveniences and performance. A significant redesign was done to the third-generation Audi TT. The style resembled the German manufacturer’s flagship supercar, the R8, and was more aggressive-looking than ever. With the significant facelift, Audi also increased the amount of cutting-edge design and technology, making the third-generation TT the most opulent of all.
With the third generation, the TT’s four-cylinder engine now produced over 200 horsepower, while the top-of-the-line TT RS’s upgraded version of the famed turbocharged five-cylinder engine produced 400 horsepower.
Audi’s dual-clutch transmission is the only option for the whole TT line, allowing you to travel about town with ease and deliver snappy responsiveness when on a winding canyon road.
Auto reviewers were thrilled by the third-generation TT’s notable enhancements in luxury and performance, and with the 2016 model, Audi made a comeback to Wards Auto’s 10 Best Interiors list with the then-all-new TTS.
Overall, if you want the most cutting-edge technology, luxury, and performance, the third-generation Audi TT is the greatest purchase. That, as we will describe below, has a cost.
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Which TT model should I purchase?
As the least expensive option that still comes with a ton of equipment, the Audi TT 40 TFSI Sport is our pick as the greatest value option because it combines the entry-level trim with the ’40’ engine, a 2.0-liter petrol with over 200hp, making it powerful enough for almost everyone.
If you drive a lot of miles on the highway, opt for a 2.0 TDI Ultra diesel vehicle because it can get more than 60 mpg in fuel efficiency and is even rather quick (0-62mph takes just over seven seconds). Although it doesn’t have the smoothest engine, it’s still worth considering for drivers who desire a stylish, elegant vehicle with extremely low gasoline expenditures.
The sporty TT 45 TFSI S line isn’t as quick or potent as the high-performance TTS, but it’s not as far off and is still enjoyable to drive. This variant is a decent value performance-oriented option because there are no TT models marketed toward sports car enthusiasts.
Which Audi TT model year is the most dependable?
Although we adore the style of the first-generation TTs, none of them qualify as a “just because they look beautiful, greatest year. The truth is that TTs from 2000 to 2006 were difficult and expensive to fix, so unless you can find one that has been rigorously maintained with records of service, pass.
Regardless, if you’re stuck with this generation, private party prices range from roughly $1,100 to $7,200 depending on the year, mileage, and condition.
Some of the best TT years can be found in the second generation (20072015). With far fewer recalls than the prior-generation TT, the new 2.0-liter turbo engine is one of several new powertrain options, and there is also plenty of luxury.
In actuality, there were only three recalls in total for the generation, the most significant of which involved a defective gearbox and only impacted 16,000 units.
We advise the 2014 and 2015 models, whose base models, according to KBB, are selling in “between $18,000 and $23,400 in very good condition. You’ll be able to concentrate entirely on appreciating your new purchase rather than waiting in a service center because these two years also had a combined zero recalls.
The third generation (from 2016 to the present) is unquestionably the most opulent and powerful, but it also comes with the highest price tag.
For instance, the remarkable Virtual Cockpit from Audi came standard on the 2016 TT, although it cost an additional $2,600 on other vehicles in the automaker’s portfolio. The 2016 TT costs much more than the 2015 model due to this and other changes, ranging from $25,600 to $28,500 in total “great condition. (Plus, in line with our “The 2016 Audi TT was the subject of a several significant recalls (see Worst Year section.) Audi offers a bumper-to-bumper guarantee that lasts for four years and 50,000 miles, therefore we recommend any TT from 2018 to 2020 as the best years of the third generation.
Which TT Audi is trustworthy?
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.
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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.
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- 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.
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What variations of Audi TT are there?
Choose from the Coupe or open-top Roadster body design and one of the five TT trim levels: Sport, Sport Edition, S line, Black Edition, or Vorsprung.
The 40 and 45 TFSI petrol units are the two available petrol engines. The 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder engine underpins both units, with the 40 TFSI producing 194 horsepower and the 45 TFSI producing 242 bhp.
The six-speed manual ‘box is no longer offered, and the front-wheel-drive 40 TFSI employs Audi’s seven-speed S tronic automatic transmission. Four-wheel drive with quattro is standard on the 45 TFSI variant.
Both the 2.5-liter five-cylinder TT RS and the 302bhp 2.0 TFSI engine in the Audi TTS quattro, which has adaptive dampers, use the same seven-speed S tronic transmission.
Prices for the regular range, which start at about 33,500, are reasonable. The TT Roadster costs about 1,750 more than the TT Coupe, and going from a 40 TFSI to a 45 TFSI costs an additional 4,600. Just over 2,000 more is spent to go from Sport to S line, and an additional 1,600 is spent for Black Edition vehicles. If you desire the style and luxury that the Vorsprung trim offers, be prepared to spend a lot of money because it costs 6,000 more than Black Edition variations.
What distinguishes the Audi TT Sport from the S line?
The 2018 Audi TT will draw a lot of buyers thanks to its sharp aesthetics and luxurious interior. The car exhibits its abilities even more effectively in upscale S Line trim thanks to more aggressive styling and superb electronics. Although it isn’t inexpensive, the TT is a fantastic small coupe, and the S Line extra is worthwhile.
Above the entry-level Sport, the Audi TT S series is the priciest vehicle in the TT lineup. Customers have an option of front or quattro all-wheel drive, manual or automatic gearboxes, and gasoline or diesel engines.
The S line upgrades the regular TT specification by including 19-inch alloy wheels, a more aggressive body package, and unique all-weather LED headlights that adjust by extinguishing bulbs to avoid blinding approaching traffic.
All TTs include Bluetooth connectivity, DAB radio, and Audi’s stunning Virtual Cockpit display inside, including the top-of-the-line S version. Air conditioning, leather seats, and ISOFIX child seat mounts are all standard.
Like any Audi, there is a long list of choices. Although larger 20-inch alloy wheels, contoured sports seats, and a high-end Bang & Olufsen sound are all options, it’s important to exercise restraint because the list price can easily go out of hand.
To get one of the best interiors in the industry, you won’t have to pay any money over and above the minimum list price. The TT has a premium appeal that is unmatched this side of a Mercedes S-Class, and this is true of both Sport and the top-of-the-line S line variants.
With no central screen and baffling buttons, the new TT’s dashboard has been greatly simplified. Instead, a 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit display has been installed in place of the traditional dials in the driver’s instrument binnacle.
Audi’s MMI interface, which allows operation of the car’s sat-nav, music, and telephone as well as display of the standard speedo and rev counter arrangement, allows owners to customize the screen to their preferences. It adds a fresh perspective to the conventional automobile interior and is really simple to use. There is a ton of high-grade leather and soft-touch plastic, so the quality is excellent.