Audi TT coupe - Engines, drive & performance

The Audi TT is lighter and faster than before, and like its predecessor, it's good to drive and comfortable over long distances. There's also a greater focus on driver enjoyment with this model.

All versions come with Audi's progressive steering system, which makes the car feel sharp at all speeds. This makes the TT an easy car to manoeuvre around town, but more fun to drive at higher speeds, too. While the steering is accurate, purists will find it isn't the last word in communication or involvement, favouring refinement over gritty feel.

On standard 18-inch alloy wheels, the Audi TT Sport rides better than the old car. All models come with sports suspension, but top-spec S line models have an optional firmer setup that's also 10mm lower. While this may suit the smooth and rut-free roads of continental Europe, it's best avoided on UK cars.

The TTS has 10mm lower suspension and 'magnetic ride' adaptive dampers, which keeps body lean even further in check while cornering and gives you the option of a more comfortable ride for long-distance cruising.

Petrol engines

The 40 TFSI 2.0-litre is more potent than the entry-level 1.8-litre it replaces, and gets the TT from 0-62mph in just 6.6 seconds. Step up to the 45 TFSI quattro four-wheel-drive model with 242bhp and the S tronic automatic gearbox and it gets even faster, completing the 0-62mph sprint in just 5.8 seconds.

You'll need to select 'Dynamic' mode to enjoy the car at its best, with a turn of pace that can start to worry the latest hot hatchbacks. It's an engine that works best at medium revs, with a pleasing bark and power that doesn't really crescendo if you hold on to gears for too long, rewarding earlier shifts instead. It's effortlessly quick, especially pulling away from a standstill.

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Both versions have plenty of grip, but the quattro model is the one to go for if you're worried about harsh winter weather or simply want excellent traction all year round.

The sporty TTS model is quicker still, doing 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds and topping out at 155mph. This smart acceleration is accompanied by a pleasingly raspy noise from the exhaust, while both gearboxes are smooth and a pleasure to use, so which one you pick really comes down to personal preference.