The 2012 Audi TT is praised for its luxurious interior and low base price. However, it does not seem to do well in the arena of luxury sports cars because it is not as fast as its competitors.
Perhaps that is because of the expectation about speed. But since cars are not made of engines alone, the new Audi TT is nevertheless a good choice. There is a variant that is the performance oriented, the TT RS, but it is far too expensive compared to the base model.
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Coupe | Base Price: $38,300.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gallons (55 liters) | MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy |
| Length: 164.5 in. (417.8 cm) | Wheel Base: 97.2 in. (246.8 cm) |
| Height: 53.2 in. (135.3 cm) | Width: 72.5 in. (184.2 cm) |
| Curb Weight: 3153 lbs (1430 kg) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 13.1 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 2+2 people |
| Engine: 2.0L DOHC Inline 4 | Compression Ratio: 9.6: 1 |
| Horsepower: 211 HP | Max RPM: 4300 RPM |
| Torque: 258 lb-ft @ 1600 rpm | Transmission: X-Speed Automatic |
| 0-60 mph: 5.3 seconds | Maximum Speed: 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Option:TT Convertible | MSRP: $41,300; MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy |
| Option:TT RS Coupe 5 Cyl | MSRP: $56,850; MPG: 18 city / 25 hwy |
| Option:TTS Coupe | MSRP: $47,000; MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy |
| Option:TTS Roadster | MSRP: $50,000; MPG: 23 city / 31 hwy |
Engine
The Audi TT comes with a 4-cylinder 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that delivers 211 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of torque. This combination is adequate for daily use. Indeed the Audi TT is not just for special occasions, it can be used daily, too. The Audi TTS, if you need more muscle, is equipped with a turbocharged 2.0 liter I4 engine that brings 265 horsepower and 258 lbs/ft of torque. This engine can be paired with an automated 6-speed manual transmission.
Performance
The Audi TT may not be the fastest in its class but it is nevertheless capable. It can provide enough power that you need for commuting around the city and on the highway. Passing and merging is definitely easy.
Since the Audi all-wheel drive system, Quattro, comes standard on the TT and TTS, you can expect that power is optimally transferred to the ground. The TT has pleasing driving dynamics, too. However, there are cases of understeer just like in other 4-wheel drive cars.
Exterior
The Audi TT looks tight and sleek from the outside. Being neither too geometrical nor organic, its headlights are well shaped. The distinctive front grille remains and in the bumper they put air passage ways, located just below each headlight. The body has few straight lines that define a sporty shape and the overall look is not aggressive. It seems that the TT wants to conceal its sportiness until you are behind the wheel.
Interior
The Audi TT boasts its luxurious, elegantly finished interiors that provide superior comfort. However, the back seat in the coupe model is almost useless. A small child will be comfortable but not full grown adults, especially the taller ones. Cargo space is not stellar, but we should expect that from a sportscar. Because of the TT’s low stance, you may find entering and exiting a little bit difficult. The 2-seater TT is better because it simplifies things by limiting the passengers and therefore allotting enough space.
Safety
The Audi TT has never been crash tested by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and the Federal government. Nonetheless, it comes with plenty of active and passive features that enhance the safety of the driver and the passenger. You will get your standard airbags and the safety features associated with the Quattro system.
Reliability
The new Audi TT comes with the standard 4-year warranty. This warranty length is competitive as far as the arena of luxury sports cars is concerned. Prospective owners can also get 24 hour road assistance as long as the standard warranty is valid.
Pros
The new Audi TT has a simple and profound styling that makes the car an all-weather and all-occasion vehicle. It has capable engines that can deliver what you need. You can drive around the city and on the highways with ease. The quality and style of the interiors are top-class.
Cons
The Audi TT stance is low, making entering and exiting a little bit difficult. The two seater model provides adequate space but the back seats in the coupe are enough only for children.
The TT is designed for sports car-oriented consumers who go after quality and style. If you belong to this category of car shoppers, the 2012 Audi TT is just right for you.
Overall Rating
75 out of 100
What others say:
“The 2012 Audi TT is for all practical purposes a two-seat sports car; it lacks the extravagant space of a fuller-figured grand-touring coupe, yet there’s enough extra cabin and cargo space for a couple of adults to stage a comfortable weekend getaway.”Car Connection
“The only demerit to TT’s excellent handling prowess is steering that feels a bit light. Otherwise, these sporty cars are extremely composed with strong, reassuring brakes.”Consumer Guide
“The TT is not as agile or engaging as some competitors, but it is enjoyable to drive. Handling is responsive and the ride isn’t punishing, but neither is overly sporty. ”MSN Auto-ConsumerReports
“One-of-a-kind styling, stirring driving performance and solid craftsmanship are the hallmarks of a respectable luxury sports car, and the 2012 Audi TT possesses these qualities in a marked degree.”KBB
“Upscale interior; standard all-wheel drive; brilliant automated manual transmission; good fuel economy.”Edmunds
