Used 2019 Audi TT

The 2019 Audi TT comes as a premium-compact coupe or convertible (aka Roadster) with a distinctly sporty edge. These are cars for enthusiasts who also want that special Audi style and technology. The style is readily apparent. The technology goes from Audi’s Quattro all-wheel-drive system, standard in every 2019 TT, to the Virtual Cockpit. This is a configurable driver-information display replacing the conventional gauge cluster and pretty much dispensing with a center console. It looks great, works fine, learning how to use it takes hardly any time, and it’s another standard item. In theory, TT coupes have 2+2 seating, but the back seats are virtually useless for anything larger than weekend bags. That’s okay, though. No one buys a TT to be practical. The sportiest 2019 Audi TT RS is reviewed separately.

The first generation of TT had a strong visual impact, but couldn’t provide a similar driving experience. The second generation was a little more engaging but perhaps lost something in the looks department. This third generation is more likely to suit a greater number of people. Its handling talents are much closer to major rivals from BMW and Porsche, while still making a definite style statement. The all-wheel-drive system (known as Quattro on Planet Audi) optimizes traction in tight turns and fast, sweeping corners alike. The straight-ahead 2019 TT coupe zips from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, while the TTS accomplishes this task in 4.4 seconds. Yet each variant can also be civilized and relaxed.

The Virtual Cockpit allowed Audi’s interior designers to create a tidy cabin with fewer controls and make intelligent use of clever technology. For instance, as well as directing air, the vents in the dashboard display temperatures, and may also be used to adjust the climate control and heated seats. Those front seats are comfortable and shaped for great support. The Audi TT Roadster is a 2-seater, but the coupe models have a pair of small back seats that might make you wonder why Audi bothered. Folding them down increases cargo space, which is how we’d leave them. Aside from that, ergonomics is well considered, and every model is enlivened with highlights of brushed aluminum.

The current Audi TT is a compact coupe or convertible with sharp style, but nothing could really have the same impact as the original TT, which shook up the car-design world. Nevertheless, the 2019 TT looks distinctive, muscular and squat, sporting crisp lines, full LED exterior lighting, and the trapezoidal grille that’s an Audi hallmark. The coupe’s hatchback is part of a classic silhouette. The TT Roadster’s power-operated fabric roof opens or closes in 10 seconds and at speeds of up to 31 mph. The more powerful 2019 Audi TTS comes solely as a coupe.

VIRTUAL COCKPIT
This 12.3-inch digital display runs at 60 frames per second, powered by an NVIDIA quad-core processor. What this means is a high-resolution, flicker-free viewing experience with several levels of information directly in front of the driver, including navigation instructions. A shortcut button on the steering wheel enables a fast return to a larger speedometer.

QUATTRO
All-wheel drive has been around almost since the birth of the automobile, but Audi has made it a core ingredient, developed it in the crucible of motorsport and called it Quattro. It provides reassurance in slippery conditions as well as tremendous traction on dry roads.

Even the “entry-level” 2019 Audi TT coupe comes with an automatic rear spoiler, along with 18-inch alloy wheels, Virtual Cockpit, leather/Alcantara (simulated suede) upholstery, satellite radio, two USB ports, rain-sensing wipers, heated front seats, automatic climate-control and drive modes. The 2019 TT Roadster adds the power roof, power wind deflector, rollover protection and a microphone set into the driver’s seatbelt for voice commands. The 2019 TTS has the more powerful engine, sport front seats, adaptive suspension, quad exhaust system and 19-inch alloy wheels.

Some features in the TTS are available in the TT as extras, such as the Virtual Cockpit’s Sport mode and 19-inch alloy wheels. The TT Roadster offers a neck-warming function. Other options include Nappa leather upholstery, cosmetic additions, 20-inch alloys, blind-spot monitoring, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto smartphone integration, Wi-Fi, navigation, and a 12-speaker/680-watt Bang & Olufsen audio upgrade.

A turbocharged 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine powers the 2019 Audi TT and TTS. The basic unit in the TT coupe and Roadster makes a completely respectable 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. The TTS coupe enjoys 288 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque. These outputs go to all four wheels through a new-for-2019 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Technically, it’s an automated manual, but think of it as an automatic with paddle shifters mounted beneath the steering wheel, giving drivers the option of becoming more involved when the whim takes them. Fuel consumption is more than bearable. The TT variants average 26 mpg, while the TTS achieves around 25 mpg.

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (TT coupe & roadster)
228 horsepower @ 4,500 rpm
258 lb-ft of torque @ 1,600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/31 mpg

2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 (TTS coupe)
288 horsepower @ 4,500 rpm
280 lb-ft of torque @ 1,600 rpm
EPA city/highway fuel economy: 23/29 mpg