Audi TT Coupe Pre Model 2.0 TFSI S line S tronic 2dr Car Review - February 2012

The TT’s latest 1984cc, 4-cylinder, 16-valve turbo engine has upgraded this model’s performance. It runs smoothly and produces 213 bhp at 4300-6000 rpm. It produces 258 lb-ft of torque at 1600-4200 rpm. 0-62 mph takes 6 seconds flat and the car will hit a top speed of 152mph. The combined mpg is 39.8 which is an acceptable number for a sports coupe.

BMWs may be deemed the supreme driving machines but, at this level, the Audi TT reigns. It has loads of grip in the bends and the steering is light, sharp and precise. It is so responsive that you can steer it with your fingertips. Refinement is acceptable and the only appreciable noise is the fabulous exhaust note. This 6-speed S tronic TT Coupe is probably the smoothest and fastest-shifting automatic transmission sports car on the market today. However, rear visibility is limited.

The cabin of the 4-seater TT coupe is luxurious. The displays and controls are well laid out and the centre console with the MMI system is compact and organized. The steering wheel is flat-bottomed which allows for more space for the driver. The exterior is elegant with crisp, clean lines.

The TT is fitted with equipment such as alloy wheels, remote central locking, climate control, electric and heated mirrors, iPod connectivity, leather seats, split/fold rear seats and more. The S line version has lower sports suspension. Options include cruise control, power and heated seats, Sat Nav, Bluetooth, rear parking sensor and a whole range of other options. Its rival Peugeot RCZ is less expensive and has more inclusive standards.

The TT Coupe 2.0 TFSI is marketed as a four seater but its rear seats are suitable only for children. The rear seats would probably serve average-height passengers on short trips only. The boot is shallow but the split/fold rear seats can be folded, increasing boot space from 292 to 700 litres.

The Euro NCAP rating is still not available. Its C02 emission is 164g/k which is high for standard cars but there is nothing standard with the TT coupe. Audi has a reputation of designing and delivering high standards of security and safety. Standard and basic safety kit such as airbags, electronic stability control which could stop or correct the car’s line in case it skids.

Current price of the TT Coupe 2.0 TFSI is £30,610. It is less expensive than the Porsche Cayman or the BMW Z4 and the Nissan 370Z. However it is more expensive than the Peugeot RCZ Coupe 2.0 HDi. The basic TT is affordable, but optional extras can add up to £5,000 on the standard price. However, due to its prestigious badge, depreciation is low.

The TT Coupe 2.0 TFSI falls under Road Tax E and insurance group 30. With its low mpg, the Audi TT Coupe is certainly not a town car and running costs are not exactly low, even for a petrol-fuelled car. Warranty is 3 years/ 60,000 miles.