By
LATEST ARTICLE
Chevy Volt Vs. Nissan Leaf: Compare Cars
For now, they're the only two mass-market electric vehicles on the road. So, which one should you... Read More
Chevy Volt Vs. Nissan Leaf: Compare Cars
For now, they're the only two mass-market electric vehicles on the road. So, which one should you... Read More
- #12LEADERBOARD RANK
- 4885ARTICLES CONTRIBUTED
- 96COMMENTS POSTED
15,599 views
TheCarConnection.com has driven the Audi TT / TTS lineup of coupes and convertibles for this review of its safety, performance, styling, comfort, and quality. TheCarConnection.com's editors have also compiled a companion review that brings you a condensed look at opinions from other respected auto Web sites to help you in the research and buying process.
Likes:
- Great turbo and S-tronic drivetrain
- Urbane cabin with understated style
- Plenty of cargo space-in a sports car?
- Compact, quick-folding convertible top
Dislikes:
- Latest body lacks original's Deco flair
- MMI controller seems wrong in a roadster
- Minuscule rear seats in TT coupes
- Starts expensively, and stays up there
When Audi first introduced the TT coupe and convertible in 1999, its Art Deco-inspired style made a much deeper impression than its less impressive performance. With the 2008 redesign, Audi turned the tables; the TT's exterior style was muted to match more of the cues found on its other cars. The latest TT, basically unchanged for 2010, fits more with the new R8 thanks to its side sculpting, low nose, and LED detailing. The cockpit loses its grabby circular theme, and now faces the driver and passenger with a flight-inspired set of knobs, switches, and LCD screens bearing a distinctly masculine appeal. It's sleeker for sure, though less distinctive. Either as a TT or a TTS, there are two body style choices: coupe and roadster.
The 2010 TT returns with familiar engine, transmission, and drivetrain choices. The 200-horsepower, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder comes only with Audi's fantastic six-speed dual-clutch transmission, which eliminates the clutch pedal and lets twin interlocking transmissions handle blink-quick gearchanges. It's only offered with all-wheel drive. The previously available 250-hp V-6 version has been deleted. The four-cylinder engine gets good fuel economy, with EPA ratings of up to 23 mpg city, 31 highway. It's nimbler at handling than before, and the TT has the feel of a speedster-it's low to the ground and corners with flat but eager determination. The high-performance, 265-hp turbo TTS comes only with the dual-clutch transmission and all-wheel drive. It also upgrades to a magnetic ride suspension with standard and Sport settings-Sport mode lowers its ride by 0.39 inch-plus larger vented disc brakes and a tuned exhaust system. Audi claims the TTS can hit 62 mph in just 5.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 155 mph.
