Overview:
This is the 2016 Audi TT Coupe 2.0 T Quattro S tronic. Lovely and a styling improvement visually from previous years, in my opinion. And that is only the beginning of a special driving week.
If I were in my youth this would have been a car I would “have” to own. But like the VW Carmen Ghia we had when married, it became too small when the kids came along. Surprise, surprise. Everything in its own time and place.
This was a flash back to years long gone by, but a welcomed visitation. What a fun car to drive and you sit in a jet-like cockpit that is cozy and comfortable. It is small but that’s the whole idea. If you need a bus, you buy a bus but if you want the exhilaration and heart throbbing thrill of such well-done sports cars this is just what the doctor ordered.
It is interesting that the industry identifies competitors that are much more money and only seat 2 as compared to the Audi and Infiniti that seat 4.
General Information: It is assembled in Gyor, Hungary; Parts – US/Canadian 1%, Hungary 52%, Germany 39%; Engine – Hungary and transmission – Germany; Classification is Sub Compact. Cars from Audi: A3 Cabriolet, A3 Sedan, A3 Sportback e-tron, A4, A5, A5 Cabriolet, A5 Coupe, A6, A7, A8, Allroad, Q3, Q5, Q7, R8, RS 5, RS 5 Cabriolet, RS 7, S3, S4, S5, S5 Cabriolet, S5 Coupe, S6, S7, S8, SQ5, TT, TT Coupe, TT Roadster, TTS and TTS Coupe.
Handling & Performance:
Exhilarating doesn’t express the emotion adequately. If you read my columns often you know Audi is the “tops”. It can always be counted on for an amazing driving experience. Really among the best there is. I’ve driven all including Ferrari and even owned a Lamborghini and Porsche that were all exciting but for the money this Audi is hard to beat.
Styling:
Stunning in a simple sort of way. But even before I read about the term “Virtual cockpit” that Audi uses to explain the design of the driver seating area I explained it as a jet-like cockpit. And while we’re on the cockpit the interior is quietly elegant with nice LED lighting highlights, and aluminum touches on the pedals, etc.
Fit and Finish:
Audi excellence.
Cost:
As expected and highly competitive pricing. Note that only the Audi and Infiniti seat 4 while all others are two seat cars and substantially more money.
Conveniences and comfort:
Audi MMI operating system allows you to instinctively manage an array of systems including navigation, entertainment, interior, even ride dynamics on models with Audi drive select.
Consumer Recommendations:
If you have a love affair with cars that are exceptional handling and performance and you are in the market for a sports car, you must test drive this little gem. You’ll love it – I promise. However, if you are on a tight budget, buy a Mazda MX 5 Miata. They’re fun but – well – drive them both, check your wallet or bank account …. Then decide.
If you tend to get in trouble with the CHP definitely go with the Miata.
One more consideration is that you should always be informed. Go to this website link for further information on cost to own and drive performance cars like this Audi TT:
http://www.bankrate.com/finance/auto/10-most-expensive-cars-to-own-and-drive-1.aspx#ixzz3xX9RQ6Kz
Recognized Competition:
Audi TT $43,000, BMW Z4 $51,000, Infiniti Q60 $42,000, Porsche Boxster $53,000, Jaguar F Type $66,000.
Good News:
Fan-tastic driving delight, good fuel economy, beautiful styling inside and out.
Bad News:
Luxury car performance means luxury car cost of ownership – both of which are not for the faint hearted.
Standard Equipment:
2.0 liter 220 hp inline 4-cylinder engine, quattro all wheel drive, 6-speed automatic transmission, 18” 5 double spoke wheels, stability control, 4-wheel ABS disc brakes with brake assist, adaptive (automatic) rear spoiler with manual operation feature, tire pressure monitor, audi virtual cockpit, heated mirrors, keyless entry and push button start, drive select, heated 12-way power driver seat, leather interior, 50/50 split folding rear seat, AM/FM/Sat/CD audio with SD card reader, 3-spoke multifunction leather wrapped flat bottom steering wheel with shift paddles, climate control, LED tail lights and interior highlights, HomeLink, Bluetooth with audio streaming, Audi MMI touch with voice control, music interface with two USB ports and a 3.5 mm aux-in, auto dimming interior mirror with compass, parking assist, rain and light sensor, front and side airbags and front knee bags, side curtain airbags, LATCH child safety teathers, anti theft alarm system with ignition immobilizer, 4-year roadside assistance.
Gas Stats:
$2.40/ Gal avg. August 26, 2016
for more information.
23 City and 30 Highway MPG
Pricing:
MSRP $42,900.