Audi TT Coupe 2008

By Philippe Legault

T as in Tradition

The TT’s look does, however, reflect its tradition and has received applause by the milieu for having on the best designs of the year. The tradition also continues with the Audi’s high-end finish; the interior layout with its brushed aluminum embellishments, the assembly’s quality and the choice of remarkable materials, they all remind us of this German’s high standards.

The quality leather seats offer excellent support and are adjustable electronically in a variety of ways. Access to the driver’s seat becomes a cinch thanks to the flat-bottomed, sport steering wheel with three leather spokes. The driving position couldn’t be better; one feels rapidly in command. The stick feels right and the gears glide up and down. The wheel can be precisely manoeuvred to the best handling position. Though the soundproofing impresses, you don’t miss out on that virile hum coming from the 3.2 litre, 250hp engine. Our tester went from 0-100km in 5.9 seconds.

The nine speaker Audi sound system with an amplifier pushing 140 watts certainly sweetens the ride. The driver information system along with the instrument block which controls the five function computer, relays the exterior temperature, the excessive speed warning etc. I disliked, on the other hand, the dials’ simple look and especially the lack of GPS. It seems incomprehensible that a $65,000 vehicle would overlook this option; somewhat of a blemish on the T- for technology.

Yes...but

After all, an impartial evaluation should include a few negatives. I have misgivings about the precarious visibility of the C pillar and, the new Magnetic Ride suspension notwithstanding, the handling on our horrible and bumpy Québec roadways was very disappointing. The suspension’s firmness accentuated the poor conditions. A prospective buyer should take heed if the majority of the driving is done on the streets of Montréal, for example. Finally, we cannot forget that the Audi TT remains a two seat coupe regardless of the poor rear seat. The access remains difficult and very confining even for children.

Our tryout’s fuel consumption stood at 11, 71/100km on an almost exclusively city driving, which augers well considering the ever increasing price of gasoline.

I also noted a slight problem the tire pressure control system which warns the driver of a tire pressure drop below the recommended minimum. This is a particular problem in our area where temperatures change rapidly thus activating the warning light because it interprets pressure between the tire’s air pressure and the ambient pressure.

In conclusion

What stays with me from this tryout is the driving satisfaction, the excellent handling, the large Potenza 245/40 R18 Bridgestone tires optional for sport driving, the superior comfort of the seats, and the sound of a powerful engine. These factors remind us this car’s prestigious and sporty lines, of its Quattro all-wheel drive and not front-wheel drive like its rivals, the BMW Z4 and the Porsche Boxster.

Note that a 200hp 2.0T engine is available starting from $50,600.

Second opinion: Benjamin

While Philippe was testing the 3.2 version, I had the chance to test drive the 2.0T. I have to say that I was impressed by the car.  This small but torquey engine is a perfect match for the TT. Without being the fastest of all, the car sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.5 seconds, approximately half a second slower than the 3.2. The S-tronic transmission does a very good job but I would have like to see the possibility to get a manual transmission. In order to get it or to have the Quattro technology (AWD), you need to chosse the 3.2. Nevertheless, the TT is still agile and nimbre, and very fun to drive even in the entry-level version.