First Review: 2016 Audi TT
Out on the road, you’ll appreciate the sure-footed handling of the TT and Audi’s signature Quattro all-wheel-drive system.
Every once in a while a car comes along that just hits all the right notes. Audi’s TT sports car is one of those. The TT is an enduring favorite of driving aficionados who appreciate the car’s quick handling and confident quattro all-wheel-drive system. The TT is also a potential favorite for anyone who enjoys European style and comfort in a smaller package.
The TT was named after the famous Isle of Man Tourist Trophy races, and it’s available in both coupe and roadster body styles. With either model, you get the same great underpinnings. Every 2016 Audi TT comes with a 2.0-liter direct-injected and turbocharged engine. The basic TT coupe and convertible get 220 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque from the engine, while the upgraded TTS coupe wrings a hefty 292 horsepower and 280 pound-feet of torque from the same unit.
That’s good enough to sling the base TT Coupe from 0-60 MPH in just 5.3 seconds, up to a top speed of 130 MPH. If that’s not quick enough for you, the TTS Coupe will get you there in just 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of 155 MPH. Even with that kind of acceleration and top speed performance, you still get fuel economy of 23 MPG city and 30 on the highway from the TT.
For 2016, every TT offers Audi’s signature quattro all-wheel-drive system. This technology has been around since the 1980s, and is well-proven. The only transmission available this year is a 6-speed twin-clutch “automatic manual” design. What that means is that you get two pedals like an automatic, and a computer actuates the clutch and shifts gears for you.
The 2016 Audi TT comes with a 7-speed twin-clutch transmission that combines the convenience of an automatic with the crisp performance of a manual
Inside, you get a very nice cozy cabin built for two. There are two rear seats, but they’re really small. However, the TT’s fastback design and large hatch means you actually get 12 cubic feet of storage space. The main passenger compartment is large enough that 6-foot drivers and passengers will have adequate space, but remember this is a sports car. Audi has big sedans and SUVs if you need more elbow room.
On the technology side, the TT is fully equipped with everything you expect from a premium European sports car these days. The dashboard features a video display screen in place of traditional gauges, which allows you to select the display you want from several options. Audi Connect gives you full connectivity, including traffic reports and the ability to create a WiFi hot spot using the car’s 4G/LTE data connection. A customized Bang & Olufsen stereo gives you 680 watts and 12 speakers for your tunes.
In a week of driving the 2016 Audi TT, I’m not ashamed to say I fell in love with the car. It’s a joy to drive, with plenty of power under your foot even in the base model. The chassis and steering are responsive and the quattro system means that the TT simply goes where you steer it without any drama. The 2016 Audi TT coupe starts at $43,825 including all fees, with a $3,500 premium for the roadster version. The TTS starts at $52,825.
