Best Used Coupé
Two-door models are all about their looks, so what do we think is the most handsome prospect in the second-hand coupé market?
Winner: Audi TT
(2006 to date) Prices: £14,500-£40,000
The huge success of the Audi TT is not to be sniffed at – and neither is the fact that it’s enjoying a second year as our best used coupé! The first generation now offers serious value for money and, while the current model isn’t cheap, it’s more affordable than it was 12 months ago, thanks in part to a mild facelift earlier this year.
While most sporty coupés have limited engine choices, the TT provides a wide range of powerplant options. An excellent, frugal TDI diesel joined the range in 2008, but don’t expect to part with much less than £25,000 even for the earliest second-hand examples.
The 197bhp 2.0-litre TFSI unit is a good bet – it offers eager performance and its durability has been proven in the TT and plenty of other VW Group cars. This engine is also the most popular option, so it’s very easy to find. If you want performance, the smouldering TTS and RS will outpace pretty much anything else on the road.
Massive popularity means that the TT is making its way on to the second-hand market in increasing numbers. Main dealers are the obvious place to look for newer models, but it’s worth shopping around online for an earlier version. A water-tight service history is essential, although private buyers will sell their cars for less than dealers. We even found a few cut-price TTs for sale from Internet retailers – the likes of Autoquake.com and Carsite.co.uk offer big savings.
Nearly New: Volkswagen Scirocco
(2008 to date) Prices: £16,000-£25,000
As sleek and stylish as they come. As with the TT, Volkswagen’s Golf-based coupé offers a tried and tested range of engines, plus it has retro appeal on its side. Punchy performance, top build quality and tidy handling make Scirocco a fine choice. It will give the Audi a run for its money when prices have dropped.
Value Choice: Audi TT
(1999-2006) Prices: £4,000-£14,000
The original Audi TT is a design classic, and still cuts a dash on the high street – for a much more affordable price than the second generation. The firm’s turbocharged 180bhp and 225bhp engines are most popular, and come with four-wheel drive, but later cars introduced less powerful front-wheel-drive powertrains to the mix.
