Audi TT Coupe 3.2 V6

Costs

Running costs for the TT will be reasonable, thanks to the use of common Audi parts. The V6 engine will attract higher insurance premiums and fuel use, but it is on a par with its rivals.

Space and practicality

For a car in this class the TT offers respectable accommodation. Front seat passengers will have no complaints apart from the exceptionally tall, although those in the rear may become uncomfortable on longer journeys. The boot space is also respectable at 290 litres, expandable to a useful 700 litres with the seat folded down.

Controls and display

The layout inside the TT is excellent, with controls and displays familiar to an Audi driver but superb to use. The centre console is relatively small, but contains all the necessary information and controls. A simple screen in the centre aids the operation of the controls, while a smaller display between the instruments is a useful addition.

Comfort

The TT can also be comfortable when required, with good sound insulation and a respectable ride. The seats are also comfortable, and the quality cabin is relaxing and suitable for long journeys. The optional magnetic suspension also gives two settings, with a comfort setting best suited to ordinary driving.

Car security

With such a desirable car security is very important, and the remote central locking, engine immobiliser and alarm system should prevent any security risk.

Car safety

The TT should offer a high standard of safety, thanks to features such as the steel and aluminium spaceframe design, ESP and standard fit ABS. The TT also features an automatic rear spoiler, increasing downforce at higher speeds to improve grip and stability.

Driver appeal

The TT can cover ground at an impressive rate. With the security of four-wheel drive and composed suspension, it is easy to exploit the performance on offer from the V6 engine. It provides rapid acceleration with a great soundtrack, and with the S tronic gearbox specified, it makes for a pleasing car to pilot. However, there is a slight feeling of detachment, with the steering having good weight but not a great deal of feel. For the vast majority of buyers however, its ability to carry speed with ease will be more than enough.

Family car appeal

The TT is not quite large enough to cope with a family, and although it may be possible to squeeze a baby seat into the rear, gaining access on a regular basis will be trying. Also the boot may only be able to cope with a family's needs with the rear seats folded.

First car appeal

Although there is little about the TT that would catch out an inexperienced driver, even the 2.0-litre model probably has too much performance for a new driver. It is also likely that the insurance costs would be too much for someone in the early stages of driving.

Quality and image

The TT feels like a high quality car throughout, thanks to a mix of impressive design, sturdy construction and excellent materials. There are almost no areas in the cabin where pennies have been pinched, and the manner in which the switches operate inspires confidence. The TT's image is likely to be carried almost directly from the original car thanks to its largely similar looks, which will ensure it is a desirable car that appeals to people because of its looks above other factors.

Accessibility

Although the roofline does require passengers to drop down into the seats, the doors are quite long to give a large opening. Front seat passengers will have little complaint, although those gaining access to the rear have a relatively small gap to climb through.

Stereo and ICE (In car entertainment)

All Audi TTs come with a radio/CD unit that delivers good sound quality and is easy to use, while the option Bose sound system is even more impressive. Sound quality is superb and there is the facility to play MP3 CDs as well as a CD autochanger.

Colours and trim

As is typical in an Audi, the interior trim is of a high standard, with a range of good quality leathers and plastics. There are also several different shades of interior colour, providing a welcome change from the usual dark greys.

Parking

Parking the TT is barely more difficult than a regular hatchback. The controls are easy to use and the view out is good, although the thick rear pillars and reduced rear window size do restrict the rear view, although parking sensors are available.

Spare wheel

Tyre inflation system stored beneath the boot floor.