Audi TTS a bittersweet swansong
Back in 1998, Audi unveiled the Type 8N TT, a vehicle that has aged incredibly well thanks to its then futuristic design, the legendary 20-valve turbocharged motor and Quattro all-wheel drive. Two generations later and the third generation TT is set to be the last hurrah for Audi's small sports car. The team at AutoAdvisor recently received the updated TT in S guise to review.
Updated TT
The refreshed TT range reached local shores some time ago with the TTS being the only model currently offered for sale until the updated TT RS arrives. The changes made to the exterior of the TT include a revised front grille, reshaped air intakes and LED headlights as standard.
The interior has also received a mild upgrade with S sport seats along with the 12.3-inch virtual cockpit both coming as standard. Those familiar with the pre-facelift model will find the updated version easy to navigate, with the simplistic centre fascia, round air vents complete with digital readouts and the MMI system, which can be controlled via the terminal on the centre console or the multi-function steering wheel.
Under the hood
The ubiquitous 2.0-litre turbocharged EA888 engine still powers the TTS, but it now produces 228 kW and 380 N.m of torque. The six-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox is also carried over from the pre-facelift model. This strong motor combined with the aforementioned quattro system as well as a 1 385kg kerb weight means that the car will sprint to 100km/h in a claimed 4.9 seconds and will go on to an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.
What's it like to drive
Being an MQB platform-based product, the TTS is a wonderfully usable sportscar, regardless of which driving mode was selected. Being a relatively compact car makes the TT an extremely effective tool for getting from one point to another, quickly.
While not exactly brimming with feel, the TT does a good job of combining the virtues of sportscar ownership with daily usability thanks to a wonderful gearbox, a responsive engine and well-judged control weights. The engine note piped into the cabin isn't exactly sonorous, but when combined with the burps on the upshift, you do get the impression that you're in something rapid.
What about the competition?
The list price of the TTS in a class of its own, unless you count the soon-to-be-replaced BMW M240i, the TTS is your only option if you're after a 2+2 sporty coupe for around R800 000. The likes of the Ford Mustang, BMW M2 Competition, Porsche 718 Cayman, Jaguar F-Type and Toyota Supra are all up against the more potent TT RS. This leads us to declare that the RS is likely the better send-off for the TT.
Send off?
In 2019 we heard from the powers that be at Audi that this will be the last Audi TT to feature an internal combustion engine. If the TT is revived at a later stage, we're told that it will likely be an all-electric model. This means that after just three generations, the famed TT will be discontinued.
Verdict
Driving the striking orange TT around for a few days was a bittersweet moment. Even though the second and third generation of the TT hasn't captured the magic of the original, it is sad to think of a world where exciting cars are increasingly being replaced by solutions to personal mobility.
Service plan and warranty
All Audi TT models come with a one-year unlimited mileage warranty as a well as a five-year/100 000km maintenance plan.
Pricing
Audi TTS coupe R813 500
Also worth a look: the Audi Rs3 and the Out with the Old, In with the New: Audi A5 Replaces A4 in So.
FAQ
Q: What does the Audi TTS cost in South Africa?
The Audi TTS is priced from around R1,250,000 in South Africa, making it a premium sports car that sits well above entry-level performance vehicles but below full-blown supercars.
Q: Is the Audi TTS worth buying?
The TTS is worth buying if you want a refined, all-weather sports car with quattro grip and daily usability, but consider alternatives if you prioritise raw driving emotion or value for money.
Q: How fast is the Audi TTS?
The TTS accelerates from 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds thanks to its 228kW, 2.0-litre turbocharged engine and quattro all-wheel drive system, with a top speed limited to 250kph.
Q: Should I buy an Audi TTS or wait for the TT RS?
Buy the TTS if you want a balanced daily driver with strong performance, but wait for the TT RS if you need maximum power and don't mind paying significantly more for the extra 170kW.
Q: What are the main problems with the Audi TTS?
The main issues include the lack of steering feel compared to rivals, high purchase price for what you get, and the fact that this generation will be the last TT ever made, potentially affecting resale values.
Should You Buy It?
The best all-weather sports car under R1,300,000 in SA is probably the Audi TTS, but that doesn't mean you should rush to buy one. At around R1,250,000, the TTS offers impressive performance with its 228kW engine and quattro grip, plus the practicality to use every day without wanting to sell it after a week. However, the steering lacks the feel of a Porsche Cayman and the price puts it uncomfortably close to more exciting alternatives. If you live in the Western Cape where it rains and need something fast that won't kill you on wet roads, the TTS makes sense. For everyone else, consider a BMW M2 Competition or save money with a Golf R that offers 80% of the experience for significantly less cash. The TTS is a very good car that's hard to justify unless quattro grip and Audi's premium interior are non-negotiables on your shopping list.
