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2008 Audi TT
By Alvin Jones
When you think of Audi you automatically think sporty, progressive and sophisticated. The second generation 2008 Audi TT manages your expectations. The first generation came out as a coupe September 1998. The roadster followed in August 1999. The second generation Audi TT is over 5 inches longer and 3 inches wider. Made of 58% aluminum and 42% steel, the roadster is 188 lbs lighter but 120% more rigid. The coupe is 166 lbs lighter but 50% more rigid.
The power comes from your choice of a 3.2-liter V6 250 hp engine matched with a quattro all-wheel drive system or the 2.0-liter TFSI turbocharged 4 cylinder 200 hp front-wheel drive system. The V6 goes from 0-60 in 5.6 seconds while yielding 20 mpg. The 2.0 turbo goes 0-60 in 6.1 seconds and yields 26 mpg. The S Tronic 6-speed gearbox offers a dual clutch that shifts in just 0.2 seconds so will not feel the shift lag when you “step on it.” The V6 comes standard with a 6-speed manual.
McPherson struts on the front, a four-link suspension on the rear, coupled with electromechanical power steering, tame the TT’s power. Pair that with a combination of Audi’s optional magnetic ride suspension and sticky tires your S-curves become straight-aways. The car feels balanced and handles well. The anti-lock brakes grab firmly and smoothly making stopping quick, sure and precise. If you don’t believe me ask the wild turkey that darted into the road during the test drive.
Why did the turkey cross the road? To see the new exterior design, of course. The lines are smooth, sleek, and sexy. The coupe’s hatchback gives a dramatic aerodynamic image. The look of the roadster just invites you to take a ride. The soft top opens and closes in just 13 seconds. The automatic retractable spoiler extends at 75 mph and retracts at 50 mph. I preferred to use the manual operation so that the car could look cool at lower speeds.
Safety features include optional Bi-Xenon adaptive headlights. The airbags that come with the TT are dual threshold front, seat-mounted side, and knee airbags for driver and front passenger. All-season tires are run-flat. Side intrusion protection prevents against a side impact collapsing the doors.
Bose provides a premium audio system as an option. Their “Centerpoint” Surround System includes 12 high performance speakers, 8 channels of equalization, and 255 watts of total output.
Audi TT Pricing:
2008 TT Coupe 2.0L Turbo $34,800
2008 TT Coupe 3.2L 6-speed manual $41,500
2008 TT Coupe Auto S Tronic Quattro $42,900
2008 TT Roadster 2.0L Turbo $36,800
2008 TT Roadster 3.2L 6-speed manual $44,500
2008 TT Roadster Auto S Tronic Quattro $45,900
