Audi TT Roadster

This stylish sports car could cost you much less than you think, and it's more than just a pretty face

- By GEORGE HILL [e-mail]

THE THIRD-GENERATION Audi TT Roadster embodies the phrase 'the third time's a charm'. You see, the 1999-2006 original wasn't as engaging or fun to drive as its arresting looks suggested. Then the 2006-2014 version arrived with much better driving dynamics but rather more forgettable looks.

In 2014, Audi finally perfected the TT recipe. This final model was not only a dream to look at but also had the driver appeal to back it up. The Roadster version we're looking at here arrived in 2015, shortly after the coupé, its retractable soft-top adding fresh-air thrills into the TT mix.

The real beauty of the TT, though, is that it's a convertible with genuine everyday usability – and the engine lineup reflects that. If you must, you can have a 181bhp 2.0-litre diesel engine, but the petrols better suit the TT's easygoing character. They start with the 178bhp 1.8 TFSI, via the 306bhp TTS, culminating with the 395bhp 2.5 TFSI in the TT RS.

Our favourites are the mid-rung 227bhp 2.0 TFSI and the 242bhp 45 TFSI that replaced it in 2018. Both bring proper sports car performance; 0-62mph takes just over 6.0sec. However, if you want to scare a Porsche at the lights, the RS not only cuts that time to 3.8sec, but also adds an addictive five-cylinder exhaust note. Most engines are paired with a six or seven-speed automatic gearbox; a manual gearbox was offered early on, but this was dropped in 2020.