The fact that the first-generation Audi TT won or was shortlisted for this award five years in a row is a tribute to the company’s vision and sense of style. So replacing it was a tough mission – especially when you’re competing in a sector where looks and fashion are as important as performance and handling.

The bad news for the opposition is that Audi has done it again. The second-generation TT is as enchanting and seductive as the first version, and has leapfrogged all its rivals to claim the top spot in the class.

Although the exterior lines don’t have quite the same shock value that the original’s had, Audi has done a fine job updating a classic design, but added a contemporary twist.