Photography and video by ©2016 Toni Avery
I remember when these first arrived at dealers. They were new, sporty, and still offered a manual transmission. My dad wanted one so bad but couldn’t find a dealer that wouldn’t gouge him with a ridiculous markup. So the TT never made it into our garage.
As you can imagine, I was excited to learn that I’d be driving the latest version of a car I so would have loved to have said I drove and part owned the first iteration of. I just love how far these little TTs have come.
This TTS is equipped with a 2.0 L turbo-charged 4-cylinder engine producing 292 HP and 280 lb-ft of torque mated to six-speed dual-clutch transmission.
After testing the S3, I was hooked by its peppy little turbo assisted engine. The TTS is no different. It benefits from a significant weight difference from the S3 tipping the scales at 3450 lb compared with the TTS coming in at 3230 lb. That’s significant when we’re talking about the same power and engine size for both these cars. So I’d say the TTS has a leg up on the S3, just in terms of the more sporty edge.
The transmission is just as quick in the TTS and provides satisfying up and down shifts when in manual shifting mode or in standard automatic. I kept the TTS in Dynamic the entire time for the best experience.
The Coupe feels very planted, thanks to the quattro all-wheel drive system and doesn’t suffer from any noticeable lean when cornering. And while there was nothing wrong with the S3’s performance, the TTS just feels significantly more exciting to drive. And sounds so good doing just that. Braking performance is as expected with progressive and positive brake pressure from higher speeds bringing the TTS to a stop.
There are four different drives modes to choose from in the TTS. There’s Comfort Mode that is perfect for long trips that adds optimized steering and a closer shift pattern to help provide a more comfortable drive.
Dynamic Mode provides tighter steering, even more precise throttle response and gear changes happen much higher in the rev range allowing for a more aggressive performance focused feel. It also sounds as though the exhaust valve opens up in this mode, making it my favorite by far.
Auto Mode provides the best of both worlds combining both comfort and performance into an ideal daily driving setting.
Individual Mode gives the driver the ability to select their steering, throttle and transmission up shift preference. For example you can combine Comfort, Dynamic and Auto by choosing your preferred setting from each into your very own custom drive mode.
The exterior of the TTS features 19-inch five spoke-blade design wheels and is finished in Nano Gray metallic (optional).
As much as I liked the look of the S3, the TTS really does it for me. The Coupe shape and accented fender flares and the overall stance is just so appealing. I also really appreciate the continuation of the signature metal finish gas cap. The Nano Gray is such a stunning color on this little coupe and would be the one I’d choose.
Inside the TTS is a stunning Express Red interior, Fine Nappa leather with S embossing (optional), Technology package (optional) that includes Audi MMI Navigation plus, Audi connect, Audi side assist, Auto-dimming and power folding mirrors, Parking system plus with rearview camera and a Bang & Olufsen Sound System (optional).
Slightly partial to gray cars with red interiors, I couldn’t get over just how gorgeous the combination was and how nicely appointed the interior was. The seats were definitely the centerpiece of the interior, while the lower back support was a bit overstuffed for my liking. The back seats really shouldn’t be considered as such. They are really for luggage or very small children. After attempting to see what the rear seating compartment was like, I can attest to the fact that they are not meant for people older that six.
To date, the navigation and center display in the TTS is the most attractive and well laid out of any I’ve used. It really simplifies the dash’s look and creates a more safe driving environment without having to look to the side to see what’s on the screen. Just a quick glance down and all the information you need is there.
The trunk isn’t what I’d call spacious, but remember, you’ve got that luggage compartment area behind the only two seats that count. The overall interior fit and finish and materials match the cars price point.
The TTS is possibly one of the prettiest sport coups on the market. While one never quite made it in our garage, I’d love to say that I want to own one now except for one small important item…it lacks that third pedal.
2016 Audi TTS Coupe 2.0T quattro S tronic:
Base Price: $51,900
Options:
Nano Gray metallic, Technology Package, Bang & Olufsen Sound System,
Fine Nappa leather with S embossing
Price with Options: $57,175
Destination Charge: $925
Total Price: $58,100
Fuel Economy: 23 City, 27 Highway, 25 Combined
GirlsDriveFastToo gives the 2016 Audi TTS Coupe an overall rating of (out of 5 total):
