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- Highs Nimble handling, standard all-wheel drive, elegant cabin with a technological twist.
- Lows Rear seats in coupe are very small, limited cargo room, Mazda Miata is much less expensive.
- Verdict The Audi TT and TTS are suave and sophisticated choices for anyone who wants a small, luxury-branded sports car with excellent driving dynamics.
Overview
The Audi TT and TTS are sports cars with a sensible side. They’re exhilarating to drive and surprisingly refined for the type of vehicle many consider a weekend plaything. The TT is available as both a coupe and sun-loving convertible, while the higher performing TTS is offered only as a coupe. The coupes are slightly more practical thanks to their larger trunks and two tiny rear seats. These are best used only in an emergency; space back there is snug and best considered extra storage room. Every TT comes standard with Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, so the fun doesn’t have to end due to a fickle weather forecast.
What's New for 2018?
Except for minor changes, like the addition of standard front parking sensors, the Audi TT and TTS carry on as before. However, this model year also ushers in the rapid TT RS, with its 400-hp turbocharged inline-five. This range-topping model is reviewed separately.
Pricing
Original MSRP:
- TT: $44,450
- TTS: $53,450
Engine, Transmission, and Performance
The base Audi TT coupe and convertible are motivated by a 220-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired to a six-speed automatic transmission. Unfortunately for driving purists, a manual gearbox is unavailable on any Audi TT. Beneath the pert hood of the TTS is a 292-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four coupled to the same six-speed auto. While the TTS holds the obvious power advantage, each version delivers an expertly engineered blend of speed, agility, and ride comfort. Spend more than a couple of hours behind the wheel of many rival sports cars, and you’ll remember every bump and pothole encountered during the journey. The TT and TTS, on the other hand, will leave you relaxed and refreshed.
Fuel Economy
EPA fuel-economy testing and reporting procedures have changed over time. For the latest numbers on current and older vehicles, visit the EPA’s website and select Find & Compare Cars.
Interior, Comfort, and Cargo
The Audi TT convertible has reasonable amounts of room for two adults, whereas the coupes technically have room for four. No matter which version you’re driving, the cabin is a cool and classy place to spend your time. The circular air vents neatly integrate both temperature and fan speed controls into their design. No matter where you look, materials used throughout the TT’s interior are top-notch and built to last. The front seats hold you firmly in place, and optional sport seats with quilted stitching look great and feel amazing. For weekend getaways, the coupe holds the advantage with 12 cubic feet of trunk space, versus around 7 cubic feet in the convertible.
Infotainment and Connectivity
Instead of a centrally located infotainment system, all vital information is relayed to the driver via a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel that Audi calls its “virtual cockpit.” Intuitive commands and quick responses are highlights of the system; the only drawback is that the front-seat passenger can't reach any of the controls. Standard features include Bluetooth connectivity, two USB ports, and a nine-speaker audio system. A Technology package adds such items as navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen surround sound system.
Safety Features and Crash Test Ratings
For more information about the Audi TT / TTS’s crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.
Warranty
Some older vehicles are still eligible for coverage under a manufacturer's Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program. For more information visit our guide to every manufacturer's CPO program.
