Audit TT

Unlike the previous TT, Audi's second-generation coupe has as much substance as it has style

What's New
Despite certain similarities in their profiles, it's not that difficult to tell the new Audi TT apart from the 1998 original. The second-generation car has sharper-edged headlamps flanking a huge single-frame grille (now an Audi trademark), and when viewed from the side it has a more pronounced wedge shape so now it's easier to tell if it's coming or going.

Fans of the old model's minimalist, Bauhaus-inspired styling may have a hard time coming to terms with the deep creases along the new TT's flanks, but even they should approve of its ultra-cool tail lamps, which have a familiar shape but contain reflectors that appear to float within the housings.

The real revolution lies beneath the surface, however. In an attempt to erase once and for all the TT's unfortunate (but not undeserved) reputation for having more show than go, Audi has employed lightweight aluminium instead of the more commonly used steel for most of the car's structure to reduce weight and improve both performance and handling.

The front seats have also been set as far back as possible in the car for a better front-to-rear weight distribution ratio. Despite this, and a new dashboard that wraps more snugly around the driver, the cabin feels surprisingly spacious and airy. It's also built to an extremely high standard, as you'd expect from an Audi. The rear seats are still strictly a kids-only zone, though.

The entry-level TT is powered by the Volkswagen Group's highly-acclaimed direct-injection 2.0-litre turbocharged engine, also known as TFSI. This unit is mated to a six-speed double-clutch gearbox which Audi calls S tronic, although it's actually identical to the Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) found in various VWs.

How it Performs
Whether on straights or through corners, the TT has an answer to any question a keen driver might ask of it. The 2.0 TFSI model blasts from a standstill to 100km/h in just 6.4 seconds and the range-topping 3.2 V6 variant manages the same in a Porsche Cayman S-beating 5.7 seconds.

Mind you, the old TT didn't exactly have lead feet but the difference is that this car positively encourages you to enjoy its performance. All the major controls feel like extensions of your body, with the smallest movements of your hands and feet translating directly into changes in the car's attitude.

The new flat-bottomed steering wheel not only looks great, it provides a real-time link to the front tyres so you don't need a long period of acclimatisation before starting to push the car to its limits.

Even without the quattro all-wheel drive system that comes as standard on the 3.2, the 2.0 has masses of grip and it just goes where it's pointed. It feels more nimble than the larger-engined model too, no doubt because it's a full 150kg lighter.

How it Stacks Up
The new TT's looks, quality and refinement would probably have made it a huge success even if it were mediocre to drive. But it's now a genuine enthusiast-pleaser, and this is a real cause for celebration.

Technical Specifications

MODEL Audi TT 2.0 TFSI ENGINE Engine: 1,984cc 16V in-line 4 Max Power: 200bhp at 5,100rpm - 6,000rpm Max Torque: 280Nm at 1,800rpm - 5,000rpm TRANSMISSION 6 speed automatic TOP SPEED 240km/h 0-100km/h 6.4s