By Jim Flammang
Cars.com National February 14, 2005Vehicle Overview
Audi introduced its stylish TT four-place coupe for 2000. A two-passenger roadster arrived later. A six-speed-automatic transmission in 180-horsepower front-wheel-drive models became available in 2003; until then, all TTs featured only manual gearboxes.
The TT is also available with permanently engaged quattro all-wheel drive, as well as a 225-hp turbocharged four-cylinder. A V-6 version with a Direct Shift sequential manual gearbox that uses steering-wheel paddles to change ratios debuted in 2004. Little has changed for 2005.
Exterior
Short front and rear overhangs and what Audi calls a "low, fastback greenhouse" above a high belt line set the styling tone. The TT flaunts unique, rounded styling and an attention-grabbing appearance.
All models are 159.1 inches long overall and 53 inches tall. Six-spoke cast-aluminum wheels hold 17-inch tires. All-season and 18-inch tires are optional for quattro models. Ground clearance measures a mere 4.4 inches.
Quattro-equipped roadsters have a power top with a heated glass window, while the front-drive convertible gets a manually operated fabric roof; power operation is an option. All convertibles have a power-retractable glass wind blocker between the structural roll bars, which sit behind the headrests.
The 250-hp TT adds a raised front apron with side gills and enlarged inlet openings. A bigger rear spoiler and honeycomb-pattern diffuser help reduce rear-end lift.
Interior
Front-seat occupants sit low, which makes it necessary to twist and turn when entering and exiting the coupe because of its sloping roof pillars. The coupe's backseat is essentially token space. Roadsters seat only two people. Nappa leather and automatic climate control are standard.
One convertible option includes leather upholstery with unique "Baseball Optic" stitching. Audi's navigation system and a Premium Package featuring heated front seats are available.
Under the Hood
Base front-drive models carry a 180-hp, turbocharged 1.8-liter four-cylinder, which mates to a six-speed-automatic transmission that includes a manual-shift provision. Higher-performance models hold a 225-hp engine, a six-speed manual and quattro all-wheel drive. Only a sequential manual transmission, called the Direct Shift Gearbox, is available with the 250-hp, 3.2-liter V-6. That gearbox pre-selects the next ratio, and the change takes place under load.
Safety
Audi's Electronic Stabilization Program stability system, all-disc antilock brakes, and seat-mounted head and chest side-impact airbags are standard.
Driving Impressions
Not many cars express more visual appeal than the TT, but its low roofline yields a cramped cockpit. The TT's handling is a prime attraction. Steering demands some effort, but the TT reacts quickly and goes just where you want it. The ride can get stiff on rough surfaces and some bouncing is likely even on smooth pavement, but the TT turns in an enjoyable road-going experience.
The clutch can be a trifle grabby, but the TT offers an appealing blend of gearing and clutch behavior. "Masterful" is the best word to describe the six-speed gearbox. Acceleration is reasonably satisfying, but the TT is even more alluring when equipped with the 1.8-liter four-cylinder that pumps out an additional 45 hp.
Additional Reviews
Cars.com Expert Reviews
| Jim Flammang | Cars.com National | February 14, 2005 |
Affiliate Reviews
| Anita And Paul Lienert | The Detroit Newspapers | February 2, 2005 |
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