Audi TT Roadster
Leasing

The TT Roadster has been around since 1998 and this is the third generation model, which features the sharp handling promised (but not quite delivered) by the first and second generation designs. This Roadster features an electrically folding fabric top with acoustic and thermal insulation and a thick layer of fleece for the interior headlining, which delivers refinement comparable to the alternative TT Coupe.

On the move, the ‘Audi drive select’ driving modes system can now influence the way the 4WD system works, a set-up that these days uses a Haldex-style all-wheel drive system. If your TT Roadster has the clever ‘Audi magnetic ride’ adaptive damping system fitted (standard only on the TTS and TT RS), the ‘drive select’ modes will affect ride quality too.

Minor updates made to the styling of this latest model include a smarter three-dimensional version of the Singleframe radiator grille, larger new vertical corner air inlets, revised alloy wheel designs and extra styling slashes below the tail lights at the rear. From the side, this could only be a TT; the rounded wheel arches, curved windscreen pillars and bold shoulder line all being recognisable features. As are the unique ‘stirrup’-style door handles and the powerfully sculpted lower door sill contour – Audi calls it the ‘dynamic line’ – that forms a light-refracting edge and adds purpose to the car in profile. Plus as ever with this model, you get this ‘TT’-embossed fuel filler cap on the driver’s side that opens with a light tap.

The cabin of the TT has always been a major reason for wanting one and that’s still the case, with the fascia dominated by circular jet engine-style air vents and the Audi Virtual Cockpit instrument binnacle screen. There are no rear seats. You won’t be expecting much boot space – and you won’t get it; the trunk offers modest 280-litres of capacity, but at least folding the roof doesn’t reduce that further.

Trim Levels

Vanarama customers can choose between four trim levels for TT Roadster models – ‘Sport’, ‘S line’, ‘Black Edition’ and top ‘Vorsprung’. The TTS roadster comes in standard, ‘Black Edition’ and ‘Vorsprung’ forms. And the TT RS roadster comes only in a single fully kitted out level of trim.

Verdict

To dismiss this TT Roadster as a hairdresser’s sportscar would be doing this Audi a deep dis-service: earlier versions may have lacked a little in terms of drive dynamics, but this third generation model can feel genuinely sharp through the turns. We’ll miss this Audi when it goes – there’s nothing quite like it.