Audi TT Roadster

The Audi TT Roadster comes with a simple dashboard. There are only a few clearly labelled buttons, all set neatly into the fascia. The design is contemporary and graceful. Premium, high-quality materials have been used all through the cabin. Drivers, irrespective of their height and size, will be able to sit comfortably, courtesy the tilt and telescopic steering wheel and the front centre armrest. The Audi TT Roadster doesn’t get any touchscreen infotainment unit. But it does get a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel that sits behind the steering wheel. It’s equipped with the Audi Virtual Cockpit system that supports satellite-based navigation (in the optional Technology Pack). There are not many storage options in the cabin. Cargo space is also limited to only 280 litres. The classic round air vents with their turbine-like design has been common in the Audi TT through generations, and reminds of jet engines. The car gets a nine-speaker audio system.

The silhouette of the Audi TT Roadster has remained the same since its launch and the car has become more appealing over time. The third-generation Roadster retains the best element from the earlier two generations. The TT Roadster looks much better with the roof down. Styling changes over the years have seen a revised design for the three-dimensional single-frame radiator grille. The Roadster also sports larger side air inlets. The front grille is big, and with the lovely details, lend an aggressive look to the car. The fuel flap is positioned on the right side in a circle that’s surrounded by socket screws. The shape reminds of the first-generation TT. The car comes with an electrically actuated fabric top. The roof has excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. Audi has paid careful attention to frequencies generated by the passing airflow. 

The Audi TT Roadster comes with adaptive suspension as standard. It allows to soften or stiffen the ride, as required. It’s an effective system. The car’s ride quality gets surprisingly agreeable in the Comfort mode setting.  The standard, body-hugging sport seats are manually adjustable. The driver’s seat comes with four-way lumbar support. All seats are bolstered and the flat-bottom race-inspired steering wheel lends a sporty feel. There’s a generous amount of space in the cabin but taller occupants may have to push the seats back to the maximum. Even with the top covered, there’s no dearth of headroom.

The entry-level model of the Audi TT Roadster is equipped with a four-cylinder, 2.0-litre petrol engine that produces 230 PS/370 Nm. The motor is mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic with manual shifting mode. The car takes time to get into the groove as the transmission is a bit delayed. But handling is sharp and the Audi TT Roadster merges nicely with traffic. Turning corners doesn’t require any effort. The exhaust system adds a satisfying burble to the soundtrack. 

All models of the Audi TT Roadster comes with forward-collision warning, and drowsy-driver monitoring. The car gets four airbags as standard. The car has earned a four-star crash test rating in Europe. That’s a star less because the Roadster doesn’t offer city braking technology. There are a number of optional tech-assist features and some of them should have been part of standard equipment. The brakes offer solid road grip.

The TT Roadster, fundamentally, is a very decent car. It’s nicely priced for a premium produce, is attractive both inside and out, and comes with a frugal engine. At a starting price of AED 210,000, the Audi TT Roadster is a pleasant car to own.