Audi TT Coupe 1.8 TFSI S tronic Review

‘Women age like fine wine’, they say. 

Well, that saying doesn’t just apply to women; it applies to some cars as well, especially those that, despite being introduced some six years ago, still remain fresh. Sounds like a future classic, doesn’t it?

The car we’re referring to today is Audi’s TT. So what’s new this time around? A new smaller engine; which of course also mean lower price tag. 

The TT range is quite a wide one. Prior to the introduction (or reintroduction?) of the 1.8-litre variant you’re about to read about today, it started off with the 2.0-litre four pot, then a higher-powered TTS and then the ultimate TTRS, with a 2.5-litre five-pot turbocharged unit nestled under the bonnet.

But on a more personal note, my favourite TT has to be the TTS. With 272 bhp, 350 Nm and a 0-100 km/h timing of 5.2 seconds, it was good enough to stalk sports cars one step above it and also show a thing or two to the Cayman S. Quattro four-wheel drive help tighten things up at the same time, adding more fun if grip is your highest priority.

On the other hand to some, the TTRS should be the answer as an all-rounder sports car, just by looking at the spec sheet: 340 bhp, 450 Nm and a zero to hero time of 4.3 seconds. All this simply means that there’s potency good enough to outrun almost everything else on the road. However to be honest, it’s way too powerful, making handling a tad handful. Worst still, it’s pricing puts it close to M3 territory: ask any driver’s driver and their answer should be the more soulful M3. Then, for those who want more prestige will easily opt for a used 997 911.

Now back to our centre of attention today: the least known but new baby in the TT range, the 1.8-litre TFSI variant. 

If you’re wondering what differentiates it, you have to look really close. Or you happen to know the A to Z of the TT (sorry for the overwhelming use of alphabets). First give away is the ‘TFSI’ badge slapped on to the boot. Secondly, those rather inoffensive 17-inch alloys wrapped in 225/45 R-17 Bridgestone Potenza RE050 rubbers. And that’s pretty much it – the rest are your TT standard affair.

Aluminium petrol tank door? Check. Retractable spoiler? Also check. Headlamps with LED daytime-running light? Check too.