For 2005, the Audi TT drops the 180 hp, front-wheel-drive models of 2004, offering both the Coupe and Roadster with Quattro all-wheel-drive only. (The reduced line-up is for Canada only; American buyers can still get the base FWD model.) A weight reduction also increases acceleration times slightly.
Named for the Tourist Trophy auto race first held on the Isle of Man in 1905, the TT is available as the 225 or 250, the model names referring to the horsepower. The 225 carries a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, while the 250 uses a 3.2-litre six-cylinder. The 225 comes with a six-speed manual transmission; the 250 is mated exclusively to a Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), a revolutionary design adapted from Audi’s Le Mans race-cars. It’s fully automatic in Drive, but can be shifted through wheel-mounted paddles; the transmission’s performance is light-years ahead of most manual-mode systems, shifting with split-second precision and no interruption of power. A “Launch Mode” feature offers maximum acceleration from standstill.
Save for their engine and transmission differences, the 225 and 250 coupe are similarly-equipped, with anti-lock brakes, 17-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires, high-pressure headlight washers, heated windshield washer nozzles, aluminum fuel filler door, rear spoiler, self-levelling Xenon headlights, fog lights, power windows, cruise control, power heated mirrors, power locks with keyless entry, CD player with six speakers and automatic climate control.
The 225 and 250 roadsters share the coupe’s features, but add a power glass rear windscreen, two fixed roll bars, and power folding top with heated rear window. Because of the space needed to fold the top, the roadster holds two people to the coupe’s four-seater configuration.
Extremely attractive, the TT coupe features a firm but not uncomfortable ride, tight suspension, lively performance and enough room for the folks up front, although rear-seat passengers will not be happy with the cramped quarters. The 3.2-litre ups the sports car factor, and the DSG is nothing short of amazing in its precision. Drop the top on the roadster and the grin just gets even bigger.
Although it still turns heads, the TT has some serious competition: the Nissan 350Z roadster offers 287 horsepower for $6,675 less than the TT 225 roadster and $12,050 less than the 250. In 184 hp mode, the BMW Z4 is $7,675 under the 225 roadster, while the 225 hp version is $5,050 under the 250. While those vehicles don’t have the legendary Audio Quattro four-wheel-drive, that’s still a considerable cash difference.
The TT is built in Gyor, Hungary
No content available
This vehicle has not yet been reviewed
