Car Review: 2012 Audi TT Convertible

The 2012 Audi TT Convertible Review

Full Review by Andy: Which Type Are You?

There are two types of people in the world: Those who read car reviews for research, and those who read car reviews for fun. Neither faction understands the other; the Montagues and Capulets have nothing on a soccer mom in her Lexus RX 350 versus a hotrod fanatic in his 1969 Dodge Super Bee. But just for the 800 or so words of this review, the two parties can dwell in harmony. The mediator, and the communal object of lust, is the 2012 Audi TT roadster.

Exterior
Spawned from slipstreams, the TT’s aerodynamic body and oversized curves are lavish and luscious. Thanks to its brash single-frame grille, slanted air inlets and chiseled wheel arches, the 2012 Audi TT looks a lot more menacing than the original roadster, which was the automotive equivalent of Paris Hilton’s dog. The back is adorned by a power-retractable spoiler that automatically deploys at 75 mph, but can be manually activated at any speed. On top is a power-retractable soft-top roof, retractable in 12 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph.

Audi TT Images, Video and Specs

Interior

The Audi TT collects trophies like King Solomon collected wives. In 2000, the TT was a finalist in Automotive & Transportation Interior magazine’s, “Car Interior of the Year” competition. In 2007, the second-generation Audi TT won the prestigious “World Car Design” accolade. Peek in through the raked windows, and you’ll see why. The cabin is a blend of performance design elements, such as a flat-bottomed steering wheel, driver-canted control cluster, and oversized shift lever, with eccentric elements such as as a gargantuan tachometer/speedometer duo and eyeball air vents.

Packin’ a Powertrain
The 2012 Audi TT roadster runs on a 2.0-liter turbocharged direct-injected four-cylinder engine. It develops a so-so 211 horsepower, but cranks out a commendable 258 lb-ft of twist. The turbocharged four-cylinder has been named one of Ward’s “10 Best Engines” for five years running, and the reasons are simple: It’s smooth, powerful, has minimal turbo lag and exceptional fuel economy. A six-speed automated manual is the only gearbox available. The S Tronic transmission clicks through shifts in just 200 milliseconds, and can be manually controlled via shift paddles or a console-mounted gear selector.

Driveline Performance
Don’t ditch your Boxster yet. The Audi TT roadster is a tremendous car, but it has been overshadowed by its thoroughbred competition since it first breathed life. Early first-generation models gained an infamous reputation for high-speed instability, while second-generation TTs were initially criticized for their sloppy handling. But every year, Audi has tweaked and tucked its protégé, and every year, performance improves. For 2012, Audi proclaims the TT roadster can dash to 60 mph in just 5.6 seconds and up to 130 mph. Quattro AWD is one of the best of its genus, and an optional adjustable suspension provides pristine handling.

Ninety-nine percent of all readers drooling over this review will find the Audi TT roadster more than they can handle. The other 1 percent, who inspect track diagrams looking for the best lines, should look to the Porsche Boxster, Chevy Corvette, or the BMW Z4.

Safety Information
The 2012 Audi TT roadster has class-competitive safety systems and features, including four-wheel ABS disc brakes with EBD, brake drying and brake assist and six standard airbags. Rear parking sensors are standard on the Prestige trim. Crash test safety ratings are unavailable.

Comfort & Cargo
It’s an Audi. In automotive jargon, that’s synonymous for lavish ergonomic brilliance. The TT is an exceptional grand tourer, with a cozy, quiet and isolated ride, top up or down. Drivers may have qualms about space, particularly the 8.8-cf trunk, but similar criticisms apply to all competitors. Similar rivals include the Mercedes-Benz SLK or BMW Z4.

Feature Highlights
The 2012 Audi TT two-seat roadster is available in two trims: Premium Plus and Prestige.

Premium Plus is nicely equipped. It has leather/faux suede upholstery, ten-way power front seats, Bluetooth, a nine-speaker audio system with satellite radio and several other knickknacks. The Prestige ($47,400) is for the glitterati, and includes upgraded leather upholstery, an MMI system, navigation system with real-time traffic, upgraded 12-speaker sound system with six-CD changer, heated front seats, and other accessories.

The Audi TT takes its moniker from the British Isle of Man Tourist Trophy (TT) Motorcycle Race. The “trophy” term is apropos. Not only has the TT amassed its own collection of trophies, but it’ll be a shining prize in your garage as well.

Details:
Engine: 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder
Horsepower & Torque: 211 hp @ 4,300 rpm, 258 lb-ft of torque at @ 1,600 rpm.
Transmission: six-speed shiftable dual-clutch automated manual
Drivetrain: AWD
Fuel Economy: 23/31/26 mpg
Base MSRP: $41,300

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