The second generation Audi TT Roadster was a little less radical than the car it succeeds, but it had grown up and become a more sophisticated and capable sports car. While it is larger than the original model, a 50% aluminium construction has kept it lightweight and agile. All engines give excellent performance and handling are equally impressive.
The TT’s roof remains the cloth type which keeps luggage space at acceptable levels and again cuts weight. Inside the interior is well finished as we have come to expect from Audi although rear visibility isn’t great with the roof in place.
The entry level 1.8T has been an Audi standard for some time but the latest version slotted into the TT Roadster is both efficient and powerful in equal measures. Thanks to some clever tuning an eager dose of power is produced by the little engine that puts it on par with much bigger and more weighty lumps. The result makes the Audi TT Roadster 1.8T FSI feel much more than the bottom of the range.
The Audi TT Roadster 2.0T FSI gets a great engine that works perfectly with this small sports car. It gives smooth, flexible power without weighing down the front end. It also provides a great balance between performance and impressive economy. The sporty exhaust note is much more pleasant than the muffled alternative from the diesel model. The six speed manual gearbox comes as standard which has a direct feel and good old fashioned control. The excellent S-tronic semi auto transmission is also available.
The diesel powered Audi TT Roadster 2.0 TDI has proved popular despite the disconnection between open air roadster appeal and the less inspiring noises from the engine. The appeal of economy often wins over and Audi owners won't be disappointed at the pumps or in the driving seat. The engine is smooth and quiet once underway and performance is surprisingly punchy. It loves to rev when you want to have fun but is also comfortable for long distance cruising. Sadly those who opt for the bigger wheels and skinny tyres which suit this car so well, will sacrifice some of this comfort.
The V6 powered Audi TT Roadster 3.2 gives great performance and sounds lovely but it was hard to justify the cost and drop in economy compared to the 2 litre turbo and the engine was finally dropped in 2010 along with a sweep of engine revisions across the range to improve economy and emissions as eco pressures grow.
The compact VR6 engine remains popular with enthusiasts and has proven itself to be fast, smooth and reliable.
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