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2008 Audi TT: destined for more success

Published 3:12 pm Friday, November 9, 2007

Almost a decade has passed since the Audi TT made its U.S. debut. Since then, the world’s automotive press has gushed over the German sports car, bestowing it with cult status among multiple other honors.

With the release of the 2008 model, the second-generation TT coupe seems destined for more success. The new version keeps the convex and concave features of its roofline and front and rear overhangs. The base body is compact, conveying a sense of confidence and strength.

My tester, the Audi TT 3.2 six-speed manual Quattro coupe with S-Line package, was the embodiment of sheer dynamism in design, engine output and performance. Simply put, it was a knockout. It looks like it’s breaking the law even when parked.

The 3.2-liter V6 engine is a high-torque, high-revving juggernaut. Sprinting from a standing start to 60 miles per hour in 5.3 seconds, it develops a maximum torque of 236 lb-ft between 2,500 and 3,000 rpm, and at 6,300 rpm delivers a power output of 250 horsepower. The best part is, the engine sounds even better.

The standard transmission is a six-speed manual in a weight-saving magnesium casing. A technical highlight, and unique feature in its class for the TT, is the optional automatic S-tronic dual-clutch gearbox. The system’s dual-clutch technology enables it to change gear in just 0.2 seconds, producing no discernible interruption in the power flow when in manual mode with a simple tap of the shifter paddles located behind the steering wheel.

Driver and front passenger bucket seats are fitted even lower down than in its predecessor, providing a truly sporty seating position allied to a firm side restraint. Like the steering column (with a flattened bottom similar to the R8), the seats can be adjusted longitudinally and in height, providing a seating position that can be dialed in for just about any driver’s body type.

The S-line package delivers 19-inch alloy wheels, Audi Magnetic Ride that adds electronically-controlled dampers that adjust in milliseconds to driver input, a DVD-based navigation system, and a 255-watt, 12-speaker audio system with noise compensation and Sirius satellite radio.

My tester also included two-tone Nappa leather covered upholstery, door inserts and stitching.

Standard equipment includes automatic climate control, aluminum trim, cruise control, tilt and telescoping steering wheel, driver information system, electronic stabilization program, keyless entry, power adjustable and heated mirrors, retractable spoiler, tire pressure monitoring system, and power windows, doors and mirrors.

Alas, the trunk was not big enough to accommodate a Sun Mountain tri-pod carry golf bag without dropping the rear seat. Which brings up another salient point. The rear seat was unfit for human habitation. My daughter gamely crammed herself into the back seat for a quick trip to the local Chinese restaurant. A speed bump sent her head crashing into the roof and produced a few tears.

But that’s not what the TT coupe is all about. It’s really a two-seater extraordinaire and is bred for fun, fun and more fun. Practical, functional and versatile is not the TT’s stock in trade — nor should it be.

Style, technology, handling, performance, comfort and luxury are TT hallmarks and will sustain the model well into the 2010s.