It wasn’t exactly love at first sight, but the eye-catching silhouette, all low and tight lines, certainly made an impression. It didn’t take long for us to get to know and understand each other. And, before I knew it, I was in love. It was – for me, anyway – amazing how quickly we formed a special bond, the kind only a man and a finely tuned driving machine can forge. I’m gushing, I know, but, somehow, I don’t think I’ll be the only one to rave about the new Audi TT coupé.
First introduced in 1995 (production, however, didn’t begin until 1998), the Audi TT has held its own with its dynamic performance, technological accomplishments and inherent comfort. The latest TT is the third iteration and, true to Audi’s efforts to becoming the world’s top premium marque, burnishing further all the best bits of the previous generation – sophisticated style and refined sportiness – and throwing in all sorts of improvements.
From the exterior, the TT now looks even edgier. Despite the straight side panels and a broader and flatter Singleframe grille upfront, it looks leaner and more assertive. The retractable rear spoiler, which extends automatically when the car speed exceeds 120km/h, and round twin exhaust tailpipes are holdovers from previous TT generations, while the use of xenon plus headlights and daytime running lights just adds to the charm.
Interior-wise, the TT cabin is low slung and surprisingly comfortable, especially for front passengers, who enjoy electrically adjustable Alcantara sports seats. Formatted as 2+2 seater, the back is a little cramped but you can simply fold down the rear seats’ backrest and double the trunk capacity to 712l. The new virtual cockpit, a 12.3in high-resolution LCD display located just behind the steering wheel, not only displays the usual speedometer and rev counter, but also gives you access to the proprietary MMI interface system. This lets you control nearly all the MMI functions through the multifunction steering wheel while keeping your eyes on the road. Voice recognition has been boasted as well, allowing you to interact directly with your Bluetooth-linked mobile phone or the optional MMI navigation plus system.
Technology aside – and there is plenty of that packed into it – it is how the TT behaves on the road that matters ultimately and, here, it shows its true colours. It might not score highly with those seeking pure, adrenaline-drenched performance but where the TT scores best is in driveability – securely powered with plenty on reserve. The six-speed S tronic transmission is quick-witted and dynamic, responding smoothly and quickly to your driving needs. With a low centre of gravity, it never feels unwieldy, hugging the curves happily even if you’re a little too carefree with the accelerator. In fact, throw anything at it and the TT is unlikely to give you any drama.
The Audi drive select system is now standard on the TT, offering five different modes that control engine characteristics and steering assistance. Efficiency manages air-conditioning and the start-stop system to ensure the best fuel consumption rates, while Dynamic packs that extra muscle you need for a rush. Swapping between modes mid-drive is impressively fuss-free – nothing beats a swift break out of traffic onto a clear stretch of road at the press of a button.
For all the power under the hood and sophisticated electronics behind the dashboard, though, there is something soothing about being in the TT – cosily cocooning within its spaceframe, the barely perceptible growl of the engine and the gentle susurration of the tarmac beneath you. Any road trip is simply enjoyable and undemanding. The only difference is, you can get to your destination a lot quicker – and in better style, for this is a handsome car – than anyone else.
For me, though, it’s the little things that add to the pleasure of a driving a TT. I love the flat-bottomed steering wheel, which allows me to maintain a comfortably light touch, which is all the car really needs. The air-con vents, with their built-in controls, give the dash a stylishly retro look, while the lidless fuel flap is simply genius. One of my favourites is that moment, just after you turn off the engine and the last thing you hear is the heartbeat that is Audi’s sound logo. Sure, it doesn’t do anything practical but, boy, is it cool. What can I say? It’s a coupé that grabs at any heart. Even my mother approved of the TT and, since she is the soul of practicality, that’s as good an endorsement as any I can think of.
