What is it?
The TT has become one of Audi’s most iconic models and ever since its arrival in 1998, it’s been renowned for its style.
While the TT has been modernised over the years and across the generations, Audi has never deviated too far from the original philosophy of the TT being a stylish, high-quality sports car. But after 157,000 UK sales, Audi will soon be discontinuing the TT as it looks to focus more on its future electrified models. But before this sports car departs for good, we’ve bagged one final drive.
What’s new?
Audi marked the TT’s 20th birthday back in 2018 with a special edition, and it’s doing the same five years later with the Final Edition. This is an end-of-the-line model available on both the TT and sportier TTS we’re trying here.
The Final Edition gets a range of model-specific details, such as the 20-inch alloy wheels from the TT RS, a host of black detailing as well as Alcantara trim across the interior
What’s under the bonnet?
The standard TT Final Edition is available with outputs of 194bhp and 242bhp, but in the case of the TTS, this comes with a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine producing 316bhp and 400Nm of torque. It’s also paired with a seven-speed S tronic automatic gearbox, which sends drive to all four wheels via Audi’s Quattro system.
Accelerating to 60mph takes 4.6 seconds, while flat out it’s capable of 155mph. In terms of running costs, Audi claims 32.8mpg, while the CO2 emissions are fairly high at 198g/km.
What’s it like to drive?
Despite the TT’s fairly compact size, it’s a car that’s very easy to get comfortable in. There’s loads of adjustability to the seat and steering wheel, and the low-set driving position immediately makes it feel sporty.
The point-to-point pace offered by the TTS is exceptional, too, and because of the all-wheel-drive system, it’s able to do this rain or shine. There might be more ‘fun’ sports cars on paper, but the all-year-round usability gives it a clear advantage over many rival models.
How does it look?
Though the TT has been modernised over the years with a new grille and Audi’s trademark LED lighting, it’s cleverly been done in a way that doesn’t detract from the original car’s DNA.
Details such as the compact dimensions, wraparound bonnet and metal fuel filler cap all hark back to the first TT. Though Audi has stopped production of the Roadster model we’re trying here already, both the coupe and convertible offer lots in the way of style. We also like the Final Editions' various gloss black elements, including the spoiler, grille and mirrors, which worked very well with the Tango Red paint.
What’s it like inside?
What strikes you most about the TT’s interior is the quality on offer. This current generation of TT has been around for almost a decade, but the materials selected remain of the highest standard. Details such as the plush leather seats and Alcantara on the door cards and steering wheel help this Audi feel very special inside.
The TT also offered a minimalist look before it was cool to do so. There’s no touchscreen, but rather a large digital instrument cluster that handles media controls as well, though a traditional rotary dial can be used to control it. The ventilation controls are also cleverly housed within the air vents themselves, which is a neat touch that helps to free up space.
What’s the spec like?
The Final Edition comes in one fixed specification, but the level of equipment included is particularly generous.
Standard features include 20-inch alloy wheels, an impressive 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit system and heated seats, while the TTS also brings keyless entry, a reversing camera and an excellent Bang & Olufsen sound system.
Verdict
While the Audi TT might be about to bow out, this Final Edition solidifies what a brilliant car this has been for the past 25 years. It’s a sports car with everyday usability like no other.
Even as it’s about to be discontinued, the quality of the TT’s interior, its performance and overall style are still exceptional. It will be a model that will be greatly missed.
At Swansway Motor Group we offer the full range of new and used Audi cars, browse our current TT’s in stock below.