Audi TTS Review

Based on the second-generation platform of Audi's compact TT sport coupe that arrived in 2008, the high-performance Audi TTS is available as a 2+2 sport coupe or two-place roadster. Its sleek hood conceals a turbocharged direct-injected 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that's backed by the versatile S tronic dual-clutch automated manual gearbox, all running through Audi's Quattro all-wheel-drive system. The result is 265 horsepower, seamless shifts, tenacious traction and a 0-60-mph sprint of around 5 seconds. The TTS straightens out curves more competently than a garden-variety TT as well, thanks to standard adjustable dampers.

The TTS provides useful upgrades over the regular TT, but you'll pay a hefty premium for them. However, if you're armed with a fat wallet and in search of to-die-for sports car looks and good road manners, the TTS is no doubt a fine choice. Value-minded performance buyers will find more bang for the buck in a Nissan 370Z, Mustang GT or Camaro SS, and the BMW Z4 and Porsche Boxster/Cayman deliver sharper handling and greater overall driver satisfaction. Nonetheless, if money's no object and you value ultimate style over ultimate performance, the Audi TTS is certainly worth a look.

Current Audi TTS
The Audi TTS is a premium compact sports car available in 2+2 sport coupe or two-seat roadster body styles and two trim levels: Premium Plus and Prestige. Standard feature highlights on the Premium Plus include 19-inch wheels, adjustable drive settings (to alter suspension firmness, steering assist and exhaust note), automatic xenon headlamps, power front seats and leather upholstery. The Prestige adds (among other things) heated seats, a navigation system, rear parking sensors and an upgraded Bose sound system.

Like other Audi products, the TTS features an attractive and high-quality interior. A flat-bottomed steering wheel and aggressively bolstered seats lend the requisite sporting touches to this high-performance model. Those who value function more than open-air motoring should focus on the coupe, which offers hatchback utility and folding rear seats for cargo and people.

On the road, the Audi TTS delivers noteworthy performance. Its high-output turbocharged 2.0-liter four is more responsive across a broader power band than the less powerful version in the base TT. The dual-clutch S tronic gearbox delivers world-class operation in both automatic and manual modes. And thanks in part to its adjustable dampers, the TTS responds more sharply than the regular TT and dispatches twisting roads with aplomb, even if it still can't quite keep up with the competition from BMW and Porsche. The TTS shines while driving in inclement weather, where its Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides an extra measure of confidence-inspiring traction.

Used Audi TTS Models
The Audi TTS coupe and roadster were introduced for 2009. Apart from a slight shuffling of trim levels and equipment, they have changed little since.

Read the most recent 2014 Audi TTS review.

If you are looking for older years, visit our used Audi TTS page.