2009 Audi TT Bottom Line

By  Bengt Halvorson, EditorBengt Halvorson

Last year Audi gave the TT a complete redesign; while the new TT doesn't make the design waves that the first-generation car did, the automaker finally dials up the TT’s performance to suit its racy profile. The 2009 Audi TT gets a few minor changes but is essentially carried over; however, 2009 brings an all-new, higher-performance TTS variant.

On the standard TT are two different engine options: a turbocharged four-cylinder model with front-wheel drive or quattro all-wheel drive, and a V-6 model with quattro. Of these two, the V-6 is a little bit faster, but heavier, giving the 2.0T a peppier feel. The four-cylinder engine also gets much better fuel economy than the V-6, with EPA ratings of up to 23 mpg city, 31 highway.

The new 2009 Audi TTS comes with a higher-output 265-horsepower version of the 2.0T engine and includes magnetic ride suspension with standard and Sport settings—Sport mode lowers its ride by 0.39 inch—plus upgraded vented discs and a performance exhaust. And in the TTS, the electronic stability control includes a new mode for track days that allows controlled drifting (along with a digital lap timer). The TTS can hit 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph.

Both engines come with the S tronic gearbox, a dual-clutch automated manual transmission that has snappy shifts in aggressive driving, smooth ones in relaxed cruising, and very quick downshifts. Performance-wise there’s no penalty versus a conventional manual transmission. On that note, there is no manual gearbox with the base TT or even the TTS, but the V-6 is still offered with a six-speed manual.

Either as a 2009 Audi TT or TTS, there are two body style choices: coupe and roadster. The tight convertible top of the Audi TT is available in manual or power, and like all of the other Audi TTs before it, the 2009 has a quiet, moisture-free ride with the top up. And unlike with retractable hardtop setups, trunk space is not compromised with the top folded down.

One of the hallmarks of Audi excellence has been the caliber and luxury of the interiors, and for all models of the Audi TT, this holds true. For those seeking a navigation system, the Prestige is the only option package offering it. The TTS has a Silk Nappa leather and Alcantara interior with aluminum trim.

The Audi TT hasn’t been crash-tested by either of the major U.S. testing agencies, but across all models, its standard safety features include hill-hold assist, anti-lock brakes, side airbags, and electronic stability control.

New standard features for the 2009 Audi TT include an auxiliary audio input and Sirius Satellite Radio. Whether in Premium, Premium Plus, or Prestige trim, the TT comes well-equipped; top Prestige models add a nav system, rear parking assist, LED interior lighting, xenon headlamps, rain-sensing wipers, heated sport seats, a Bose premium sound system, and a trunk pass-through, among other extras. An S-Line package dresses up the TT’s appearance to look a bit like the TTS from a distance.