Audi TT

The Audi TT has become one of the ultimate fashion accessories of the 21st century, with stunning concept car design, legendary engineering and a great record for reliability.
Three years since its UK launch - and four after it first went on sale in Europe and the US - the TT is still a head-turner. Its curvy styling doesn't appear to age, and the line-up offers panache, performance and practicality.

Auto Express Car Reviews

December 2002

The Audi TT has become one of the ultimate fashion accessories of the 21st century, with stunning concept car design, legendary engineering and a great record for reliability.
Three years since its UK launch - and four after it first went on sale in Europe and the US - the TT is still a head-turner. Its curvy styling doesn't appear to age, and the line-up offers panache, performance and practicality.
In driving terms, it's more touring car than hardcore sportster, but the VW Golf chassis and 4WD can handle most roads. The earliest models came here in 1998, but were grey imports. Left-hand drive only, they were popular at first, but have become much less so as second-hand right-hookers have become more widely available.
The TT holds its value well, so be wary of cheap cars. Most used examples are for sale in the dealer network, and buy these if you need peace of mind. But if you're after a bargain, then Audi specialists and private ads are the best source of keenly priced cars.
Checklist
* If you're considering buying an early TT, make sure it has had the recall work carried out on the suspension and rear spoiler. Call Audi Customer Services on 0800 699888 to find out.
* Left-hookers are worth much less than RHD versions, and unless you're fluent in the language of the country the car was originally supplied in, it's difficult to understand the service history and handbooks. Also, some are stolen, so only buy from a reputable importer.
* The ignition coil pack is prone to failure, so check for rough idling. Start-up is fine and the engine runs well while cold, but it will occasionally drop a cylinder when at full temperature. Repairs aren't expensive, although parts have to come from Germany, so the car may then be immobile for a while.
* Non-digital air-con in 180bhp models will need regassing every couple of years, at a cost of about ΂£100.
* Interior is hard-wearing, but look for water damage in soft-tops and faulty seat height adjustment in all models.
Glass's View
Supply of used TTs is limited and demand is high, so the Audi holds its value well, says trade bible Glass's Guide. They're all great buys, but 180bhp versions lose less money in the short term. The only exceptions are left-hand-drive cars, as these need to be a lot cheaper than RHD ones to sell. And LHD TTs will be virtually impossible to shift as more right-hookers become available.
My Audi TT...
When the time came to replace his Audi A3, Nick Morgan had already decided what his next car would be. "I've wanted a TT since it was launched, so when I realised I could afford it, I had to have one," said the 24-year-old logistics development manager from Burbage, Leicestershire. He bought his 225bhp Roadster from a dealer in Kings Lynn, Norfolk.
"The TT's metallic paint and 18-inch alloys make it stand out," explained Nick. "I bought it in summer and had the hood down straight away." But now winter's here, is he regretting going for a soft-top? "Not at all," he said. "Its snug roof and heated seats mean it's fine in the cold." But Nick thinks the insurance is steep. He also wishes it had back seats, and hates not being able to use automatic car washes in case they damage the roof. "I'd buy another, but I'll need a more practical car, too."