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The Audi TT is fun to drive. All TTs have sharp handling. Despite a front weight bias, the TT doesn't have a tendency toward plowing the nose, but instead feels responsive and nimble. It feels stable at speed, and is perfectly willing to be tossed into tight corners. Steering is quick, predictable, and direct.In driving a 2.0T roadster with 17-inch wheels and a 3.2 quattro roadster and coupe, each with 18-inch wheels, the 2.0T exhibited a bit more body lean and tire squeal in turns, but still gripped the road well. The 3.2 quattros felt sharper, especially the coupe. Neither roadster exhibited much, if any, cowl shake. The Audi TT roadster is one solid convertible. Handling becomes even sharper when the available Audi Magnetic Ride Suspension is chosen. It utilizes a fluid in all four shocks that, when subjected to an electric charge, changes the shock's damping characteristics from comfort oriented to firm and sporty. The brakes did not fade in the face of aggressive driving and maintained a consistent feel. Audi's electronic stability control doesn't intrude too soon, allowing some slip without prematurely cutting the throttle. With the Audi Magnetic Ride Suspension, the electronic stability control is programmed to give the driver even more leeway. Ride quality is quite comfortable. Audi TT models with 17-inch wheels soak up small bumps well, but sharper irregularities can jolt passengers. The ride becomes firmer and busier with the optional 18-inch tires, so try these before you buy, especially if you live in an area with rough roads. We're not sure it's worth it. Acceleration performance is quick and responsive. The turbocharged four-cylinder of the 2.0T has little turbo lag, making it quick from a stop and responsive at speed. It runs out of steam above 6000 rpm, though, so it's best to shift before that point. Audi says the 2.0T can launch the TT coupe from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds, and the roadster in 6.3 seconds. The 3.2-liter V6 has more punch, is more responsive than the 2.0T at all speeds, and is capable of 0-60 mph in 5.3 seconds with the S tronic transmission and 5.5 seconds with the manual gearbox. The TTS, with its 265 horsepower, is a whole 'nother matter, and is billed as the fastest TT ever. Audi says the TTS coupe will accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.9 seconds, and the TTS roadster will make it in 5.1. The TTS has its top speed electronically limited to 155 mph. The six-speed manual transmission is easy to shift and has fairly short throws. The S tronic DSG has Drive and Sport modes, both of which shift quickly and without a jolt. The Sport mode holds lower gears longer to keep more accessible power on tap. The driver can shift the DSG via the steering wheel paddles or shift lever. Quattro all-wheel drive is front-biased, but can alter the bias from front to rear as conditions require. Quattro is a great choice for those who live where the weather often turns harsh. Audi is a leader in all-wheel-drive technology. In normal cruising, the cabin is quiet for a sports car. Tire noise can become pronounced on rough surfaces, but wind noise is well-checked. There is some sporty exhaust note but, after all, this is a performance car.
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