Overview & Reviews

At its debut as a concept car in 1995 and finally a production reality five years later, the Audi TT was one of the most dramatic cars to debut for the new millennium. Its organic and symmetrically styled front and rear profiles contrasted with slab-sided flanks to create a look unlike anything Audi had ever done before. Meanwhile, the TT's handsomely executed and in many ways ground-breaking interior left no discernible traces of the car's rather humble VW Golf roots.

Named after the Tourist Trophy race held on the Isle of Man (in which a predecessor of the Audi brand competed), the Audi TT is not quite a sports car, not quite a sport coupe or roadster. In essence, the front- or all-wheel-drive TT is a two-seat grand tourer. True, the coupe has a pair of seats in the back, but they are best left for little kids or used as an upholstered package shelf. For those seeking more thrills in the same package, there are the sporty TTS and TT RS variants.

Current Audi TT
The Audi TT is available as a 2+2 hatchback coupe or a two-seat roadster convertible. Only one trim and engine are available, the latter being a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 211 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. Quattro all-wheel drive and a six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission (S tronic) are standard.

Handling is commendable, but hardly anything that'll remind you of a Porsche Boxster or Cayman. The TT is ultimately more about its unique style, a comfortable ride and its all-wheel-drive system that provides the sort of all-weather traction that few small coupes offer. The turbocharged four-cylinder delivers respectable power, while the quick-shifting transmission helps make the most of that output. Still, 211 hp isn't much in this segment, where 300-plus hp is more typical. As such, for driving enthusiasts the TT's acceleration will seem subpar.

One of the TT's most notable assets is its superbly crafted interior, which boasts a sleek and modern look. Standard features include xenon headlights, leather/simulated suede upholstery, Bluetooth connectivity and a 12-speaker Bose audio system with satellite radio. Options include the S Line Competition package (19-inch wheels, sport suspension, upgraded leather upholstery), heated seats, a navigation system and nifty baseball glove-style upholstery. Though the coupe's rear seats aren't suitable for anyone taller than 5 feet, they fold down to create a substantial 23 cubic feet of cargo space. The convertible has 8.8 cubic feet, which is sizable for a roadster.

Used Audi TT Models
The current Audi TT was redesigned for the 2008 model year and represents the second generation. The general look is a clear evolution of its predecessor, though character lines are crisper and the nose adopts Audi's now signature single-frame grille. Although longer and wider than the first TT, the latest version is lighter (by nearly 200 pounds in the case of the roadster) thanks to increased use of aluminum in the body structure. It also offers a more powerful four-cylinder engine.

Prior to 2010, the TT could be equipped with different powertrain options, specified as the TT 2.0T (200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque up until 2011) and TT 3.2. The TT 3.2 featured a 250-hp V6. This was a lively engine and certainly offered more grunt than the turbo-4, but its added weight was a detriment to handling. Both engines came standard with a six-speed manual, while the S tronic transmission was optional. Quattro was always standard on the TT 3.2. Initially, the TT 2.0T was front-wheel drive only, then Audi offered Quattro as an option for 2009 before making it standard for 2010. Used car shoppers should also be aware that cars from early in this generation were available with a rather antiquated form of iPod connectivity (it would only play your first six playlists as if CDs in a six-disc changer) in lieu of the later standard auxiliary jack and optional iPod interface.

Introduced for the 2000 model year and initially available solely as a hatchback coupe, the first TT was powered by Audi's peppy 1.8-liter, 180-hp turbocharged inline-4. Buyers could choose either front- or all-wheel drive (Audi's Quattro system). A five-speed manual was standard, while a six-speed manual was optional. Along with its low-slung, avant-garde styling, the TT boasted an equally unique interior that featured polished aluminum accents, impeccable fit and finish and, unfortunately, a few ergonomic glitches such as a CD changer mounted behind the driver seat and counterintuitive climate controls.

After a highly publicized recall to fix the twitchy handling characteristics of early TTs, a roadster and a 225-hp Quattro version debuted the following year. In 2003, an automatic transmission (with six speeds) became available. But the biggest news for this generation came in 2004, when the 250-hp 3.2-liter V6 and Audi's superb six-speed automanual gearbox became available. The latter, dubbed DSG, provided rapid yet jolt-free manual-style gearchanges that put a Ferrari's F1 transmission to shame. The Audi TT stood pat through 2006, the last year of this generation.

Potential buyers should know that, although potentially fast in a straight line, this TT was never considered a true sports car due to its potentially heavy curb weight and softly sprung suspension. Still, the TT should satisfy those who prize comfort, style and all-weather capability in their sport coupe or roadster.

User Reviews:

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  Still a head turner-- - 2005 Audi TT
  By Mike - March 11 - 10:17 am

  I Love my 2005 Audi TT. I switched from BMW 330 and havent regretted it. I have not experienced any problems since I drove out of dealership eight months ago. It is quick and really performs once you reach 80 mph. It offers superb handling and braking ability. I cant wait for the 2006 model.

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  Fabulous car - 2005 Audi TT
  By colleen n. - March 11 - 10:01 am

  My 2005 Audi TT is the nicest car that I have ever driven. It handles beautifully, both on road and highway. I have total control, even at high speeds. I wouldnt change a thing but the coffee holder, which is in a lousy location. I cant wait for nicer weather, so I can take the top down. So far so good in the snow and rain, which is a big relief here in Chicago. Im glad that I bought this automobile!

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  Good ... not great. - 2005 Audi TT
  By PR Guy - February 27 - 3:47 pm

  This is my second TT. The first was a dream, the second has been a bit disappointing, with minor problems requiring service. Overall handling has improved, but Ive driven other sports cars with better handling. Excellent braking, even in the rain. First gear is a bit sluggish, but you can really kick it in other gears. Interior comfort is excellent for a two-seater and the well-designed top keeps exterior noise to a minimum. Wind levels with the top down are poor at highway speeds, but thats the price you pay for a ragtop. Audi continues to struggle with exterior finish quality. The finish is uneven and scratches and chips easily. Overall, it is a fun drive and a real attention getter.

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  2005 Audi TT - Love It - 2005 Audi TT
  By blondie - February 23 - 3:50 pm

  My husband bought me this car (2005 Audi TT Roadster) because Ive had my eye on it for the past 5 years....drooling with every look. I always told him if he left me a widow, I would use the insurance money to buy myself a TT roadster. He finally decided rather than wish himself dead, hed rather live to see me enjoy the car! Anyway, we got our silver bullet in November 2004 and its lived up to ALL of my expectations. I am totally in love with this car (can one really love sheet metal?? YOU BET!) Its the most fun you can have driving! I love the Tiptronic tranny .. being able to choose manual or auto is da bomb!!

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  The Best - 2005 Audi TT
  By jeannie wagner - February 19 - 11:04 am

  I have owned every high end car one can drive. The BMW 3-, 5-, and 7-Series, Lexus, Jaguar, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche and this is my favorite car. Aside from the heads turning when you pass by, this car is a blast to drive. The handling is similar to a BMW, you feel safe, the interior is what you expect from a sports car. After four years this car with 50,000 miles still looks new inside and out. If you want to feel alive this is the car to drive.

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  Solid, great all-around car! - 2001 Audi TT
  By Cardude - February 17 - 5:36 pm

  Pros: Power 2200-5800 rpm, tight handling, killer brakes, gorgeous style, solid feel, safe, AWD, flashing brights back at people who think HIDs are high-beams. Cons: Less balanced than a Boxster, loses power 6000+ rpm, limited visibility, rain water on rear window, no CD player standard in a $38000 car, cupholder placement (all these are niggles). MountainScott, the car is a single turbo NOT a twin-turbo. TT does not stand for twin turbo. "Go in knowing what youre getting," as you say.

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  Love it! - 2001 Audi TT
  By citygator - February 15 - 2:00 am

  Great car! Love the ride and the interior. Great looks!

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  UNBELIEVABLE - 2005 Audi TT
  By TIM BOWLES - January 19 - 12:49 pm

  My 2005 Auti TT is the greatest car that Ive ever owned. I also own a 66 Jaguar E-Type and a 52 Jaguar XK120, so I know great cars. The quattro all wheel drive is just unbelievable. Nothing can stay with it on a twisty road. The gas mileage is great for a sportscar, I average 30 mpg. I still never get tired of looking at it, it has the best interior in the business. Having said this, I had a fuel pump go out at 50,000 miles, which was inexcuseable. Other than that, ive enjoyed the ownership experience. I plan on getting another TT in four years, most likely the straight 6.

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  Great bang for the buck... - 2001 Audi TT
  By bad_mecha - January 17 - 2:12 am

  After deciding to replace my VW, I decided to try and get one of my dream-cars," the Audi TT. Speaking with friends and trying their cars, combined with familarity with the A4 convinced me to research the Audi further. After two months of research and hunting down the exact color, mileage, and price, and I couldnt be happier (do the hunt, its worth it in the end to get the exact ride you want). You really can find this car at the right price. The car is an unbelievable value, its fast, torquey, handles like a dream, corners like its on rails, is comfortable, and just looks awesome. Everybody looks twice at this car, even if theyre looking at your taillights as you pull away.

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  Audi TT roadster - 2005 Audi TT
  By mark - January 10 - 12:00 am

  Great ride. All wheel drive with regular tires great in rain/snow. New tiptronic is a blast. Hope no design problems with this new system as dealer just had to replace transmission. First to second gear was grinding with only 9000 miles on car. Tiptronic stays in gear past red line and doesnt change, be careful.