Introduction
Since establishing itself in the Audi line-up in 1998, the TT has been an important part of the German firm’s sports car and convertible ranges. With the soft-top version introduced just after the coupe, the Roadster has been a key player in the compact convertible segment - few cars are able to match its overall fit and finish.
Following a mid-life update of the third generation Roadster, the TT now comes with more kit than ever and performance of its higher rated iterations on par with some of the best models around.
The TT S range is on par with rivals from Porsche in terms of performance, but can it compete on the driving side? We find out…
Performance
Under the bonnet of the TT S is a four-cylinder, turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine that sends its power to all four wheels via Audi’s quattro setup and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. It develops 302bhp and 400Nm of torque, getting the Roadster from 0-60mph in 4.6 seconds and on to a limited top speed of 155mph.
The power produced is more than enough and is a considerable amount from the four-pot unit, which is easily able to get its power down thanks to the ever-reliable quattro system. The gearbox is also very smooth and allows you to enjoy longer range drives.
Ride & Handling
Audi makes cars that are often a joy to handle, and the TT S continues that trend thanks to light steering and a subdued engine note that make it very easy to live with. But the only minor negative this car is with its suspension, which for a mid-range option sitting below the top-end TT RS is too firm. It jiggles around over poor road surfaces and can be rather uncomfortable at slower speeds.
However, the TT S is really responsive and provides drivers with lots of poke at the slightest press on the accelerator pedal. There’s lots of torque when you need it, but setting off can lead to a bit of hesitation from the setup. Even the exhaust kicks into life, although the note isn’t the most invigorating around.
Interior & Equipment
As with most Audi models, the interior finish is up to a high standard. Everything that you might ever need in your soft-top two-seater can be found in the cabin, such as the standard-fit heated seats, digital instrument and infotainment display in the instrument binnacle and leather upholstery throughout. There is enough room for six-footers with the roof in place, while the 280-litre boot is large enough to accommodate a couple of weekend bags with ease.
Offered in two trim levels – TT S and Black Edition – the Roadster comes with more than enough kit at the entry level and doesn’t really need the additional upgrade of dark-coloured elements to the bodywork. To make this model more appealing in the UK though, it’s fitted with additional airscarf technology that blows warm air onto your neck and back, and the wind deflector to prevent most of the buffeting at higher speeds.
Although the model does lack a central display, the TT S comes with the Virtual Cockpit setup, which incorporates all the driving information and infotainment onto one screen. It’s really simple to use and is one of the best looking setups on the market.
Cost
Prices for the entry-level TT S Roadster start from £45,115, but with additional kit included our test car was priced from £53,570.
With the turbocharged petrol engine on-board, Audi claims the TT S Roadster can achieve around 34 miles per gallon and emissions of 165g/km CO2.
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Verdict
If the standard TT just doesn’t give you enough performance, then the TT S is probably the right car for you. The ride is quite firm and the light steering can feel unnverving, but on the whole, the TT S Roadster manages to be quite good to drive and the amount of well-applied kit will get you comfortable in the cosy cabin. We’d also recommend adding the heated headrest and wind deflector for additional comfort in all conditions.
