Audi TT

Despite its age, the TT is still stylish and well made. These punchier 1.8-litre turbos should sustain interest in the range for a few months yet. But prospective buyers might want to hang on for the arrival of the imminent, new, better-packaged and more fun-to-drive TT.

It may still be one of the best-looking coupes on sale, but is time running out for the TT? With a second-generation car due next year - derived from the Shooting Brake concept seen in issue 879 - the firm is desperate to boost the current line-up.

So the front-wheel-drive 1.8-litre turbo Roadster has been uprated to 161bhp - from 148bhp - while the two and four-wheel-drive Coup� and Roadster go from 178bhp to 187bhp. Yet prices, economy and emissions are all unchanged.

Most drivers will be hard-pressed to notice much difference in performance between new and old models. With the 187bhp front-wheel-drive TT we tried, the 0-62mph time drops a mere 0.4 seconds to 7.4 seconds, while the top speed rises 4mph to 145mph. Yet the Audi is hardly a disappointment. The 1.8-litre unit has always been strong and smooth, and this new version is even more responsive. There is virtually no turbo lag, with plenty of urge throughout the rev range.

Add a five-speed box with well spaced ratios, and overtaking is easy and cruising relaxed. The car is also frugal, returning 35mpg - identical to its predecessor's economy.

Elsewhere, it's business as usual. The TT still looks sharp, although the thick rear pillars and small glass areas inhibit visibility. The cabin is well put together, but the front feels cramped and the rear seats are for luggage only.

On the move, it's clear the engine is the most sporty part of the driving experience. The ride soaks up bumps well, but Audi will be keen to address the numb, slow steering with the all-new machine. Good though it is, this latest model shouldn't prevent you putting down a deposit for the new TT.