CAR OF THE MONTH SEPTEMBER 2007

It’s All About Lifestyle
2008 Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TFSI S tronic

In short: An evolved, true sports car.

Audi is on fire with many new models in production and others in design stage. Starting with the 2007 model, you get a brand new TT. New looks, new chassis structure, new motor and new transmission. Given its price, it’s not a car for everyone but it’s far from being an exclusive one. It’s a lifestyle ride that’s more of a daily driver compared to the outgoing generation that was rougher and smaller.

Yes, the new TT is 1.5 inches longer but it also offers much more cabin space, more headroom and more shoulder width. In fact, a linebacker could actually fit in here… but the back seats are another story. Thanks to a combination of steel and aluminum in the frame construction, the car is lighter than its predecessor and definitely feels it. Strap in, start the motor and you are ready to fly. There is an electronically controlled rear wing that deploys at speeds greater than 75 mph, but one of the great claims to fame of this model is its S tronic transmission with a dual clutch gearbox. It allows automatic gear changes in 0.2 seconds—trust us, that’s fast. You will experience some torque steer and tire screeching noises should you floor it at the traffic light, but with a little practice, you can ensure a safe, smooth and stylish takeoff.

Our tester came with an aluminum trim, sport seats, a sporty flat-bottom steering wheel, (here we go F1 fans) on-board computer and a 140-watt, nine speaker concert radio with in-dash CD player to listen to the latest tunes.

With the Premium and 3.2 V6 models, you get iPod compatibility. For those who like the top down, the Roadster model is the way to go. Working in international trade, the motor and final assembly of the vehicle takes place in Hungary.

The new generation Audi TT is an evolved sport car made with fine materials, quality engineering and displays an outstanding design. We just think the car looks great and is perfect for today’s lifestyle-conscious individuals.

Warranty/Service: Four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty; four-year/50,000-mile drivetrain warranty; twelve-year/unlimited-mile rust warranty; one-year/5,000-mile maintenance; four-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance.

QUICK SHEET Base Price: $34,800/As Tested: $38,470 Technical Specifications Vehicle type: two-door coupe Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder Horsepower: 200 hp @ 5,100-6,000 rpm Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1,800-5,000 rpm Transmission: 6-speed automatic Curb weight: 2,965 lbs Wheelbase: 97.2 in Length/Width/Height: 164.5/72.5/53.2 in Turning circle: 36 ft Brakes: 4-wheel disc with anti-lock brake system, Electronic Stabilization Program (ESP), Anti-slip regulation (ARP) Suspension: McPherson strut in front, four-link in rear EPA City: 23 mpg EPA Highway: 31 mpg 0-60 mph: 6.1 seconds Top Speed: 130 mph (electronically controlled) Safety: dual front airbags, driver and front passenger thorax airbags and knee airbags, side intrusion protection, tire pressure monitoring system Extras: servotronic electromechanical steering, automatic rear spoiler with manual operation option, LED indicator lights, LED 3rd brake light Likes: amazing design, seats, performance Dislikes: hatch tricky to close, some torque steer, diesel-like sound at low RPM

Check out other Audi models
See all of our Automobile Reviews
Visit the Audi website

Photography: AlphaMedia

PJW071807

(Updated 07/07/08 SCV)