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Audi has finally done it, created an S model of its TT. The new TTS isn't, as you might reasonably expect, based on the 3.2-litre V6 quattro. Instead, Audi is following the current zeitgeist and increasing the power of its 2.0-litre TFSI by adding a new turbocharger, resulting in 268bhp.
In the Metal
The Audi TT is a beautiful thing in any guise, but the S additions really finish it off. The most obvious signifier that you're looking at the range-topper is the brushed aluminium finish mirrors, though the prominent red background badging half hiding behind the 'S' is also something of a giveaway. As standard it comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, but we doubt there's a customer in the UK who won't upgrade to the optional 19s - all the better for looking at the S-monikered brake callipers. A new grille, deeper front and rear bumpers and four exhausts also feature, as do Audi's now trademark white LED driving lights. Inside, it's all about S badging, sports seats and a steering wheel with the bottom cut off. It is an effective visual make over that does more than hint at the TTS's impressive performance.
What you get for your Money
Looking at the performance figures, the TTS over delivers in its price category. Consider too that it's the only car in its class that comes with four-wheel drive as standard and it looks like an even better price proposition. Audi confidently line the TTS up against the 911 Carrera 4 in its comparative press data, and while there's no arguing that the numbers are very close, the TT's not a genuine Porsche rival. Unless you factor in the 2.7-litre Cayman. The 2.0-litre TFSI has undergone some fairly extensive changes to allow it to deliver its 268bhp. Such a high output from such a low capacity is impressive, the 2.0TFSI feeling like a larger capacity multi-cylinder unit, but still retaining its high rev responsiveness.
Driving it
This is the fastest, most powerful TT and that S badge promises thrills behind the unusual cut-off steering wheel. The rush of acceleration from the 2.0-litre unit is impressive, the standard quattro four-wheel drive meaning traction is rarely an issue, which should allow you to match the claimed 5.4 second 0-62mph time if you're prepared to be harsh with the clutch. Chose the S tronic twin-clutch, paddle-shift six-speeder and you'll not need to be, the near seamless shifting two-pedal system so efficient at using the engine's power that it actually drops the 0-62mph time by 0.2 seconds.
We'd take the conventional six-speeder everyday though; as clever as the S tronic is, it's just a bit too efficient for its own good. The TTS isn't exactly loaded with driver interaction, and letting the electronics change gears removes even more of the fun. Manual shifts encourage you to blip the throttle too, allowing the four musical pipes exiting out the back to produce a brilliant accompaniment to the engine's performance. If only the steering were able to deliver some texture to its decent weighting and accuracy - it's the weak link in the TTS's driver appeal. The ride, although lowered by 10mm, is exceptionally good, Audi's magnetic dampers providing excellent body control and poise in the bends, making it even more frustrating that the steering isn't able to offer clear communication as to how much grip the front wheels have.
Worth Noting
The TTS is an entertaining drive; it's just not able to offer the sort of clear, concise feedback of its competition. A Nissan 350Z or BMW Z Coupé are far more entertaining, even if the Audi has the Nissan absolutely licked for interior and exterior styling and the BMW utterly beaten on ride quality. A Porsche Cayman, although slower and more expensive, is a more entertaining, informative and interactive driving experience. The traction on offer from the TTS's four-wheel drive system is excellent, though if you're really brutal you can bring that rear-end out to play, though the TTS is more prone to understeer when the limits of its adhesion are breached. Beautifully finished inside and out, the TTS, like its regular TT relatives, is an exceedingly nice driving environment, that's also remarkably practical for a coupé. Fuel consumption of 35.3mpg is also pretty respectable given the performance on offer.
Summary
Fast, stylish and beautifully finished, the new Audi TTS is an enormously appealing version of the cool coupé. Enthusiastic drivers will undoubtedly look elsewhere, but for those wanting a capable, surefooted but scintillatingly rapid two-door the TTS is an appealing choice. It's just not the best one.
The Car Enthusiast | Reviews | Audi TTS road test
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