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The Audi TT is a stunning package which provides plenty of thrills. It is practical enough to be driven everyday as it gets decent ground clearance and the power on tap is manageable in all situations, says Faisal Khan, MotorBeam.com
Many people knew about the TT first and then Audi when it was not officially in India, such is the popularity of the coupe.
The first generation TT was one of the first Audi’s to be seen in India as many people used to import the stylish coupe back then.
Now in its latest iteration, the Audi TT has evolved in terms of both design and technology.
The latest version of the TT looks more masculine compared to its predecessors.
Audi has put some muscle to the exterior that makes it look sharper with some edgy styling cues as well.
The new Matrix LED headlights with DRLs look striking and draw the attention of everyone.
The prominent wheel arches highlight the 5-spoke alloy wheels that look as razor sharp.
The TT’s compact dimensions make it practical while parking and manoeuvring in traffic.
Getting inside the cabin of the Audi TT is a bit of a struggle, which is there with all low slung sports cars.
Once you settle, you will be awestruck by looking at the dashboard and the way everything is designed.
It doesn’t look like a regular Audi, it is very different!
The German carmaker has swapped the analogue instrument cluster for an all-digital 12.3-inch screen that doubles up as the MMI monitor.
The quality of all components feels rich while fit and finish is superb with excellent attention to detail.
There are enough storage places for knick knacks and the boot is humongous for a car like this, offering 305-litres of space with the option of flat folding rear seats to add more space.
The new Audi TT is powered by the same 2.0-litre TFSI turbocharged petrol engine but it has been re-tuned to produce 230 BHP of power between 4500-6200 RPM and 370 Nm of torque between 1600-4300 RPM.
Turbo lag is not apparent and the car accelerates off the line with immense thrust that comes in a very linear fashion.
Once you hit the 6900 RPM redline, you hear a sensational ‘braap’ from the exhaust before upshifting. The 6-speed S-Tronic gearbox is mated very well with this engine extracts optimum juice from the motor while shifting gears in a slick manner.
It can do 100 km/hr at a mere 1900 RPM in top gear which makes it a relaxed cruiser too.
Based on Volkswagen’s latest MQB platform, the new Audi TT tips the scale at 1230 kgs which makes it 50 kgs lighter than its predecessor.
The chassis is dynamically sound and the sports coupe has brilliant handling.
The TT is eager to corner hard and turns its face on your command without even a bit of hesitation.
What makes you feel good is that it’s a very controllable car. It has the best ride quality in its segment, hands down.
Low speed ride is a bit stiff due to the low profile tyres but undulations and broken tarmac are handled well by this sports coupe.
Turning style into substance when it comes to cars is an onerous task and more so in the case of sports cars.
However, Audi has done it very well with the TT. The styling is menacing, the interiors are luxurious and the feeling when you get behind the wheel is great.
The cherry on the top is the pricing, which plays a big role. The Audi TT is at least Rs 20 lakhs cheaper than its convertible rivals.
If you are looking for a hassle-free sports car to drive on road conditions like ours, this is a sensible buy for your garage.