Acceleration

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
7	8	8	8.2

Acceleration is sprightly with either the 2.0T 4-cylinder or 3.2 V6. The 2.0T suffers from modest turbo lag and some torque steer off the line. Audi claims 0-60 mph times of 6.1 seconds for the 2.0T, 5.5 for the 3.2 manual, and 5.3 for the 3.2 automatic, all of which feel credible to us. Manual transmissions have pleasant, precise feel; automatics shift with impressive smoothness. Note that test 3.2 coupe suffered a periodic erratic idle.

Fuel Economy

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
6	5	5	4.1

In Consumer Guide testing, manual-transmission 3.2 coupes averaged 19.6 mpg in city/highway driving and 24.1 with more highway miles. Premium-grade gas is required for both engines.

Ride Quality

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
5	5	5	4.3

The 2008 Audi TT Coupe has a wheelbase about 2 inches longer than the 2006 model, and that helps make the ride smooth for a sporty car. Roadsters retain their former wheelbase but ride nearly as well as the Coupes. The optional magnetic ride suspension makes bumps more apparent, but not to the point of harshness. The convertibles have virtually no cowl shake.

Steering/Handling/Braking

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
8	9	9	8.7

The only demerit to TT's excellent handling prowess is steering that feels a bit light. Otherwise, these sporty cars are extremely composed with strong, reassuring brakes.

Quietness

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
3	4	3	4.1

Both engines sing under acceleration, with the 3.2 sounding more mellow than 2.0T. With its wind blocker raised, normal conversation is possible in convertibles with the top down.

Controls

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
7	7	6	5.5

Gauges are legible. Audio and climate controls are easy to use in cars equipped without a navigation system. With navigation, audio controls are integrated into, and therefore complicated by, Audi's Multi Media Interface (MMI)--a system that requires considerable time to master.

Details

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
8	8	8	6.9

TT's interior materials are sporty, yet rich feeling and very attractive.

Room/Comfort/Driver Seating (front)

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
5	5	5	5.7

The seats are comfortable and supportive. The TT's flat-bottom steering wheel allows more room for the driver's legs. Entry and exit in both body styles easier than in most small, sporty cars but is still labor intensive. Visibility is generally good, though, when erected, the convertible top creates largish blind spots.

Room/Comfort (rear)

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
0	1	0	.6

Convertibles have no rear seats. The Coupe's back seat is only suited for parcels and maybe very small children.

Cargo Room

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
1	3	1	2.6

TTs make slight gains in cargo space over previous models. Hatch storage area shallow but usefully long and wide, and nicely finished. The rear seatbacks fold down on Coupes, while Roadsters offer an optional ski pass-through. Cabin storage is limited.

Value within Class

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
6	5	5	5.2

The revamped 2008 Audi TT is a luxury tourer that's closer to being a true sports car than its forebearer was. While Porsche's Boxster and Cayman might ultimately be sportier, the TT's more civilized demeanor might be just the thing for more casual motoring--available all-wheel drive is an added bonus. Note that prices rise quickly as equipment is added.

Total Score

2.0T convertible, Auto.	3.2 coupe, man.	3.2 convertible w/nav., Auto.	Class Average
56	60	55	55.9

Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars

Low Score		40
Average Score		55
High Score		64