Audi sports cars were a bit frustrating in the past. The original was attractive but not great to drive, while the second generation was good to drive but not especially pretty. However, Audi have nailed it with this third-generation, combining striking looks with an engaging experience all in one slick package. But before we delve too deeply into the Audi TT, let’s check in with its key stats.

Equipment, options and extras

The Audi TT’s Sport and Sport Edition trims are being phased out, so we recommend the S Line, which brings LED headlights, 19in alloy wheels, and sports seats with four-way lumbar adjustment. You should also consider the Plus Package for its privacy glass and climate control. Alternatively you might consider the Black Edition trim, which adds black styling details, including the wheels, front grilles and door mirror casings. Lastly are the Final Edition and Vorsprung trims, but they’re expensive and only worth pursuing if you’re a real hedonist.

Costs, insurance groups, mpg and CO2

The Audi TT’s 2L petrol engine comes with three alternative power outputs—and our favourite is the entry-level 40 TFSI, which products 194bhp and pulls strongly from low revs, with more than enough midrange grunt for quick overtakes. 0–62 is 7s, and it’s fast enough to compete with smaller hot hatches like its rival the Ford Fiesta ST.

The extra power of the 242bhp 45 TFSI is found mainly at the top of the rev range, so it doesn’t feel much faster than the 40 TFSI in most driving situations. However, while the 40 TFSI is front-wheel–drive–only, the 45 TFSI has Quattro four-wheel–drive, which brings additional traction for cleaner launches, even in slippery conditions.

The 316bhp TTS is quick enough to pip the Porsche 718 Cayman S, with a 0–62 of 5s, as well as four-wheel–drive as standard so none of its power is squandered: simply point the car and give it as much gas as you need. Dynamic mode sharpens the throttle response and makes the S Tronic automatic gearbox hold on to gears longer.

All in all we recommend the entry-level 40 TFSI engine, as it keeps both the price and your running costs reasonable while still going at a fair old lick. The more powerful 45 TFSI also won’t break the bank, but if you add Quattro four-wheel–drive the fuel economy drops and the CO2 emissions rise a little.

Safety and security

The Audi TT comes with four airbags as standard, along with a secondary collision assist system which helps stop the car as soon as possible after a crash. Optional kit (standard with the range-topping Vorsprung trim) includes traffic sign recognition and a blind spot warning system.

Reliability

Audi’s 3-year warranty is valid for unlimited mileage in the first two years, and a 60,000-mile limit applies in the third. It also includes three years of UK roadside assistance and recovery. A 4- or 5-year warranty can be added from the options list for extra peace of mind.

The Car Planet verdict

The Audi TT is a brilliant drive packed with goodies, with an awesome track record for both safety and performance.

Car Planet are experts in used cars in Watford and Hertfordshire. Our virtual viewings mean you can check out a car from the comfort of your own home, or you can come in and view our cars in person. Every car goes through a thorough 150-point check to ensure it’s totally roadworthy. We’re transparent, too: we always display the details of a car’s imperfections. We care about sustainability, which is why we plant a tree for every car we sell, and we provide a 7-day money-back guarantee to any customer who isn’t absolutely satisfied with our service. With our competitive finance deals and part exchanges, you’re sure to find what you need, so check out our selection of secondhand TTs today and let’s get the ball rolling!