Is there really no stopping the Audi TT? With the second-generation coupé now established as a favourite on UK roads, the success story looks set to continue with the Roadster.Hitting UK showrooms in March, it’s available with 2.0-litre turbo and 3.2-litre V6 engines, and comes with a choice of six-speed manual or dual-clutch S tronic transmissions.
Although mechanically similar to the coupé, the Roadster’s spaceframe has been strengthened to cope with the loss of the roof.
As a result, the car is not only 120 per cent stiffer than the outgoing car, but it’s 75kg lighter, too.Chassis rigidity is very impressive, and with little in the way of body twist, the Roadster has the same sure-footed and precise handling as the coupé.
The TT copes well over bumpy surfaces, too, isolating imperfections far better than many of its roadster competitors.
We drove the 3.2-litre V6, which provides a fantastic rumbling soundtrack. And while this range-topping model doesn’t have a huge performance advantage over the 2.0-litre turbo version, the quattro four-wheel-drive system means traction isn’t a problem.But it’s open-air motoring that sets the Roadster apart, and Audi has got all the crucial elements of a good convertible spot-on.
The fabric hood folds in only 12 seconds and can be operated at speeds of up to 19mph. The process is fully automatic, while a wind deflector rises from behind the chrome roll hoops at the press of a button. With the roof in place, noise insulation is impressive, while buffeting with the top down is minimal.
Dropping the hood doesn’t affect luggage space, either, and the 250-litre boot has a wide opening. The cabin is beautifully built and the driving position excellent, while the top-spec 3.2-litre gets heated seats as standard.
Crucially in such a fashion-driven sector, the roof blends naturally with the new car’s lines compared to the rounded shape of the old Roadster.
Add in strong residuals and a class-leading image, and the new TT drop-top looks set to be one of the coolest cars to be seen in this summer.
Text: Owen Mildenhall / Photos: Pete Gibson February 2007
At a Glance
Roadster has a more cohesive look than old model, while performance matches TT coupé.
Price: ......................................£31,535
Engine:.................................... 3.2-litre V6
Power:.................................... 247bhp
0-62mph:............................... 6.1 seconds
Top speed:.............................. 155mph
Transmission:.......................... Six-speed manual, (S tronic £1,400), four-wheel drive
Economy:................................ 27.2mpg
Emissions:............................... 250g/km
Service intervals:.................... Variable
Standard equipment:............... Leather, fully automated roof, heated seats, stability control, 18-inch alloys
On sale: ...................................March
