If Audi’s TT-S TFSI quattro were a cricketer, it might well assume the identity of a Garfield Sobers or Ian Botham. For it’s a consummate all-rounder among luxury sports cars.
It rated at least eight out of 10 in 13 criteria. It scored a perfect 10 for fuel consumption and nines for depreciation, safety, security and braking.
This is the sport version of Audi’s TT. With 200 kW and 350 Nm, the TT-S is some 53 kW and 70 Nm up on the standard 2.0-litre, four-cylinder TT. It also tops the 3.2-litre V6 version.
The 2.0-litre, turbocharged, four-cylinder engine, is mated to a slick-swapping, six-speed, S-tronic, dual-clutch transmission. Shifting can be done by choosing auto mode, manual stick shift or steering wheel paddles.
This DSG variant sips fractionally less premium unleaded than its manual sibling.
This car takes off with a mere touch of throttle. Revs flare, rather than build progressively. Consequently, around town, the car needs to be reined in continuously with the brakes.
On the open road, the TT-S is in its element, offering dynamic handling.
For optimum performance, the adaptive magnetic-ride dampers can be set to ‘sport’. Standard wheels are 18-inch alloys shod with 245/40 tyres.
The TT-S also measures up to the luxury tag. Its interior is a fusion of function and style.
The comfy, powered, front sports seats have plenty of adjustment and the rear seat split-folds handily to boost the limited carrying space.
As is often the case with a coupe, the rear seat is barely capable of carrying two adults.
2nd: BMW M3, 2-door
3rd: Audi S5 FSI quattro, 2-door
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