Audi TT Coupe feels better than ever, but should you get one in 2019?

To celebrate twenty years of production, the third generation Audi TT coupe gets a useful package of improvements that include mild changes to the mechanicals, the cabin and the exterior. As before, it really makes the numbers when it comes to performance and efficiency. Choose from 2.0 or 2.5-litre petrol, front or quattro all-wheel drive.
Background
While it's true that ubiquity has somewhat dulled its impact, it's easy to overlook quite what a remarkable car that Audi TT was when it first appeared in 1998. Prior to the TT, Audi wasn't a company renowned for great design flair. It did safe and solid. Its most desirable sporting cars in the years leading up to the TT launch were estate models. The TT changed all that. It had an interior that felt like something from a motor show stand. It offered buyers an apparently irresistible combination of Audi build quality, styling that made everything else seem old and a clever quattro all-wheel drive chassis.
The second generation model was probably a bit of a missed opportunity. After the extremity of the first car, everything seemed to be dialled back a couple of notches. The third generation design though, has proved to be much more desirable, fusing the driveability and slickness of the second gen version with the drama and flair of the first, while at the same time responding to shifting buyer behaviour. Now, it's been usefully updated.
Driving Experience
Audi's tinkered a little with the engine line-up in this revised MK3 model TT. The old entry-level petrol unit, a 180PS 1.8-litre TFSI powerplant, has now been replaced by a 2.0-litre TFSI powertrain with 197PS (badged '40 TFSI'), while the previous 230PS 2.0 TFSI engine gets a boost to 245PS (and new '45 TFSI' badging). There's now no longer a diesel option. The TTS retains its existing badging but gets a slight reduction in power (306PS, down from 310PS) but a little extra torque to compensate, so the rest to 62mph sprint figure (4.5s) is actually fractionally improved. The flagship model remains the 400PS 2.5-litre five cylinder TT RS, which only comes with S tronic auto transmission and can get to 62mph in 3.7s.
In conjunction with the 197PS 2.0 TFSI engine, customers have the choice of a six-speed manual gearbox or a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch auto transmission. The 245PS unit is available with either the manual gearbox and front-wheel-drive - or with S tronic auto transmission and the multi-plate clutch-based quattro permanent all-wheel drive system. Both versions of the TTS feature quattro as standard. In both transmission types, the close-ratio lower gears enable powerful acceleration, while the wide ratio of each transmission's highest gear reduces the engine speed and with it fuel consumption.
By networking quattro drive with the standard 'drive select' driving mode system, the TT driver can adjust the operating parameters of the all-wheel-drive system to suit his or her individual requirements. In "auto" mode, optimum traction and balanced driving dynamics are given priority. In "dynamic" mode, torque is distributed to the rear axle earlier and to a higher degree. In the drive select "efficiency" mode, the set-up can temporarily shut down the quattro system if conditions suit this. Audi's magnetic ride adaptive damper control system is fitted as standard to the TTS and is optional for all other versions.
Design and Build
One thing's for sure. Even if you'd never seen this car before, you'd know it was an Audi TT. Some commentators have been a little disappointed in how safe Audi has played the exterior styling but this is still a very good looking little coupe with some lovely design touches. The fuel flap on the right side panel for example, is the classic race-style circle surrounded by socket screws, with no filler cap beneath the flap. This means that there is nothing to be unscrewed and the pump nozzle slots straight into the tank neck. As for styling changes to this enhanced model, well the main one is a revised design for the three-dimensional Singleframe radiator grille and larger side air inlets.
Inside, the fascia is dominated by the Audi Virtual Cockpit, now featuring an additional sport display providing information on engine output, torque and g forces. Located directly behind the steering wheel, a 1440 x 540 pixel, 12.3-inch digital screen shows all information directly in front of the driver. Operated via the MMI Touch button, voice control and the multi-function steering wheel, the display can be switched between 'classic', with prominent speedometer and rev counter, or 'infotainment', which brings functions such as the navigation map or media to the fore.
The round air vents - a classic TT feature - are reminiscent of jet engines with their turbine-like design.
► / osvltd
► / osvmotoringnews

[@rivervalegroup]

What do you think of the last ever Audi TT... buy or avoid it?

[@burtdemill9393]

Remains a very underrated car by people who have not driven one for 15 years. An excellent daily driver choice with very good cargo space for a small coupe with seats folded down. The constant Cayman/Boxster comparisons are simply not accurate, as a comparably equipped Porsche is $20,000 more once Porsche starts their "$500 for logos on the seats" nonsense.The TTRS is a tremendous performance value.

[@rivervalegroup]

@@burtdemill9393 Agreed Burt 👍 a car that doesn't hold the recognition it deserves... even if it isn't perfect 👌

[@hugot80]

I'd buy it... But hey!!! Looking forward your deep thorough review of the new A7.. plz

[@adambrown743]

Audi actually reversed the decision to discontinue it, was in the news last week

[@phillipsos]

@@adambrown743 Can you provide a link, I could not find anything to confirm that. Thank you

[@Brmmalesela]

A piece of history that will never be repeated. Am a proud onwer of a TTS and the aim is to drive and enjoy it until I return to dust. This is a true iconic design and lucky are those in possession of it.

[@Poodleoop]

Amen 😊

[@davidwan247]

Probably the most detailed and comprehensive car review I’ve ever seen on KZbin.

[@rivervalegroup]

That's great to hear, David 👍 Consider subscribing for more in-depth vehicle reviews: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@Neeleyb]

I rarely comment on YT videos but that was a fantastic review. I love my mk3 TT, but my heart still lies with my last mk1. You feel there's something special about them if ever you've owned one, even though they're a money pit. I'd highly recommend a mk3, they're great cars.

[@frankbaugh6814]

This chap is by far the best reviewer on KZbin another great review.

[@rivervalegroup]

Thanks Frank! Are you thinking about getting an Audi TT?

[@Shercko]

Awesome review, very informative and it's refreshing to see a reviewer who actually knows his stuff and has done proper homework on the car beforehand!

[@iandavies9576]

Brilliant review! Thanks. Quite the best and most comprehensive I have seen for the TT and I am in awe of the presenters fluency, comprehensive detail, and all round knowledge. Have just agreed to buy a 45 TFSI Black Edition for my wife and this debrief fully vindicates the decision. When I say ‘for my wife’ I think we may be swapping our cars now, more than ever before 😀

[@rivervalegroup]

Hope you both enjoy your new Audi! 👌

[@UndefinedPrayer]

Great review guys, unbelievable detail!

[@rivervalegroup]

Cheers Xander!

[@anj3764]

WoW - what a review! This guy is amazing!! He went through everything.. more then a dealer could ever do in the same time ...TOP MARKS... I went through the whole video and rewound it several times to help me write a few things down as I decide on on options I'm looking for (in a used car)

[@rivervalegroup]

Many thanks for watching 👍 Glad you found this review useful. For more of the latest in-depth reviews, make sure to subscribe: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@bradleys378]

As ever, another exceptionally comprehensive review. Thank you.

[@rivervalegroup]

That's great to hear Bradley, thank you for watching! Be sure to subscribe for the latest vehicle reviews: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@Captainrave]

I love my TTRS, such a well built machine.

[@rivervalegroup]

Great choice, what a beaut 💙

[@dsinghr]

It is one of the most handsome cars ever made. Can’t stop looking at it whenever I see it parked

[@cozmikw]

I’ve lusted over the Audi TT for many years (last car was a Honda Civic Type R) As I learn more and the TT I fell in love with the idea of a double clutch. I can remember Jeremy Clarkson talking about the TT and saying how it knows what gear you want next and with wonder on his face he said “how does it know?” I test drove and placed a deposit on a mk2 manual TT, that so was not for me. Soon after I found a 16 plate mk3 Quattro! With 19” Wheels this IS THE PERFECT THING. None of that Hard Ride (I had with my old Type R or the 20” of the newer TTS and TTRS of recent. And at 5.3 0-60 it’s faster than most things on the road. I think most ppl only envy the TT as they have to drive a people carrier of some boring 5 seater car for their families. I drive this Car for ME I have 5 Grand Children, but they travel in their Mother’s Cars. 🤣🎶

[@rivervalegroup]

Fantastic to hear you're loving your Audi Quattro 👍

[@michaelparker-m6s]

Easily the best car reviews you can find. Top marques

[@paulds65]

Just bought my first TT, a 2010 2.0 Quattro. Not as engaging to drive as my 997 but not complaining at $7k. First mainteance will be a new timing chain kit.

[@lordlucan7633]

Wow. This guy is a human encyclopaedia on Audi TTs. Excellent extensive review of all models,and Yes,I would buy one.Would love to know if any of the info he was quoting was read off an autocue.?.

[@rivervalegroup]

No autocues here, just a lot of homework 👍 thanks for the feedback Lord Lucan 👌

[@bolllochead]

Great review. I have an 8J Roadster 2.0TFSI and love it. It is very basic compared to the latest model but there seems like there is so much more to go wrong!

[@ashernorris22]

8J is also WAY better looking than the newest mk3

[@jamesjewell90]

Such a thorough review, great work! I for one will be sad to see the end of the TT.

[@rivervalegroup]

Thanks James 👍 great to see comments like this. We can't imagine it will be gone forever...Audi will surely make a revival of the TT at some point 👌

[@AAA22299]

TTS is the sexiest car alive

[@rivervalegroup]

👍👍👍

[@barbabillaros]

Congratz for your proper in depth review! I have a question to anyone that can answer. Does the drive select mode allows you to manually change the haldex configuration just like an aftermarket haldex controller in previous versions?

[@adcatman]

What an excellent review. Many thanks but sad to see it may be on it's way out? Reassure me it's not! I have had a 2018 lowly 1.8tfsi Black Edition car for about a month now and absolutely love the way it performs. Lots of options to tailor the drive experience and tweak the infotainment display to how you want it. It corners with so much confidence that it puts a smile on your face and for a relatively low budget. Great car and hope to something to upgrade to in the future. Many Thanks Andy

[@rivervalegroup]

Thanks for the feedback adcatman 👍 its always great to hear back from an owner. Great car 👌

[@disturbed250]

Great detailed review! Helpful for a future buyer!

[@ambitionsskyyyy]

I agree disturbed, this was a great review stay safe lots of love and respect mate 👍🏼

[@davidbird380]

you can turn heartbeat volume down in settings, its a reminder alarm, i have got used to it, if you dont hear it it means something is left on

[@paulgreen758]

I had a mk1 with the 1.8 engine, I now have a mk3 with a diesel engine, Quattro and fast, well at least fast enough for me, kenmore to Aberfeldy 6 miles 6-7 mins , and I dont need to brake on a twisty country road great car in whatever guise you buy it in

[@rivervalegroup]

That's great to hear, Paul! If you haven't already subscribed, it really helps the channel out: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@spacekiller02]

Very good review and so much understable for a french person! Thanks

[@rivervalegroup]

That's great to hear! Many thanks for watching 👍

[@NicholasSadlier]

Great review - I've had a Mark 2 TT 2.0 S-tronic since 2013 and plan to hold on to it. A little antiquated next to the MK3 but still a joy to drive.

[@rivervalegroup]

Hi Nicholas, that's great to hear 😄 When you're next in the market for a new vehicle, our vehicle specialist team would be delighted to help you find your ideal car. Get in touch with us here: www.osv.ltd.uk/hello-youtube/

[@MarkJT1000]

If you want something different from your usual hatchback or SUV / Crossover then the TT offers a practical alternative - at reasonable expense and is a bit more exciting to look at and to drive. However if you want a more engaging / challenging driving experience then look at Porsche, BMW or MX5 for example. I've got a Mk3 Roadster and use it as a daily driver and I love it.

[@rivervalegroup]

It's definitely a popular model. Shame that this is the last one Audi are planning on releasing 😒

[@crashoverrev13]

Love it. Bought one in July. Great review. 18:36 TT Owners Manual says no one over 4'9" (145cm) should sit in the rear seats.

[@rivervalegroup]

That's an incredibly specific height to mention, though having seen the rear of the TT it's understandable. We have some shorter people at the office, but even they would find it a squeeze.

[@rouman7]

Nice cars the TTS had one a while ago changed to a M3 but if honest a Porsche Cayman is a better drive. Holds the road better imo ... which is why I have one

[@Boorock70]

Best TT review ever...! Thanks.

[@rivervalegroup]

Thank you for watching! Make sure to subscribe for the latest vehicle reviews: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@Boorock70]

@@rivervalegroup Subscribed already !

[@rivervalegroup]

@@Boorock70 Thank you! 👍

[@johankrogh8480]

My 7th TT best Audi ever made.

[@sluuuudge]

Found this video by mistake and I'm glad I did, this review is so in-depth and detailed. Love it!

[@jermainerobinson7098]

Nice review how reviews used to be about the car not silly top gear road trips love the review it reminded me of Clarkson and Quinton when they used to do the reviews nice work better then the usual car review on here every one’s having a go now 👏🏾👍🏾👊🏽

[@rivervalegroup]

Thanks Jermaine, we appreciate the great feedback! Be sure to subscribe for more reviews like this one - bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@nurbsenvi]

This guy is a national TV news presenter material what is he doing here?

[@daleboyles3805]

Facts

[@mza2001]

this. is. mind. blowing

[@rivervalegroup]

👌🙏

[@lash9400]

i have a 16 TT quattro and my next car will be another TT. I always loved the model and it will be a shame when its gone.

[@cleetorres1351]

I had a rare special made 5.2 v12 . Ran at 577 bhp then staged tonle 3bbjp 783 . Thanks

[@rivervalegroup]

Thanks for watching! Be sure to subscribe for more in-depth vehicle reviews - bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@MrRrosi]

Such an informative video. Awesome work!

[@rivervalegroup]

We're glad you enjoyed it!

[@tinniswood2577]

Very thorough review. I can confirm that a mk1 TT coupe will indeed swallow a racing bike in soft padded bike bag with all the associated gubbins, spare wheels, kit bag etc.

[@JO3KAH]

Amazing review well done

[@ThexBorg]

Love my 2019 TTS Black Edition.

[@rivervalegroup]

That's great to hear! What do you love most about it?

[@ThexBorg]

@@rivervalegroup The feel of the road, sticks to the road like glue. The TTS engine that you hear when sprinting. The compact feeling and the luxury interior.

[@badboyblue9675]

You can turn off the heartbeat or turn it up or down but I love it Car needs memory seats and advanced cruise and lane keeping and wireless CarPlay Other than that it’s fabulous Oh and the sound Akton has a very annoying buzz I must turn that off

[@gurumeditation8911]

Excellent review! 👍

[@rivervalegroup]

Many thanks for watching! Subscribe for the latest in-depth reviews: bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@dragonh3art1]

I’ve got a 2013 mk2 zQuattro diesel sline it’s awesome,I did have the brake light fault which many have which is due to bad earthing,however it’s awesome to drive always look forward to jumping into it,only bad design fault ide say is the mirror switch,it should be somewhere easier to reach not after the door handle,apart from that loads of boot space,I hate when they moan about the back seats,you don’t buy a car like this if you know you carry backseat passengers a lot,it’s a sports car that’s what it’s meant to be,the back seats are only in to cut insurance down for everyone,

[@zukacs]

my tts is on the way and this is the last video i need to watch. thanks!

[@zukacs]

p.s. many of tech options can be coded at a local VW/Audi tech

[@rivervalegroup]

Great to hear! We hope you enjoy your new Audi Coupe 👍

[@indang3r610]

What's that at 8:10 ? Looks like something with a snorkel.

[@Daniel-wm9gj]

Picture you put up of the 2014 model was incorrect, that was a MK2 as well

[@Daniel-ge8gk]

Hi

[@zukacs]

i got the TTS for the unique interior compared to the cheap 2 series 240m... but full awd xdrive would be nice compared to the haldex

[@MrSammcauley]

What a colour combo 🤭 it’s a true Brit

[@rivervalegroup]

🤣 classic

[@JmmChad]

You say that the diesel engine has been dropped in this lineup (3.20) but I can see quite a few on sale on Autotrader. Could you clarify what you mean please.

[@rivervalegroup]

Hi Jimmy, this is an assessment of the latest model. It's possible the listings you're seeing on Autotrader are older versions for which a diesel powertrain was configurable. Hope this helps - if you'd like further advice please contact our team 👍

[@rookie145]

BRILL JOB MATE

[@Darren_Tay]

I'm hoping you guys do a review of Aston Martin Superleggera and compare it to the V12 DB11.

[@rivervalegroup]

We will be reviewing the Superleggera when we can eventually get our hands on it 👌

[@JdA210]

Awesome of you love it

[@rivervalegroup]

Thanks for watching! Make sure to subscribe for more in-depth vehicle reviews - bit.ly/319ZKoT

[@JamesWickendenVideography]

Smashing review as always OSV. Don't mind the TT but not in that colour...

[@princemwamilee86]

James Wickenden why mate? You feel less manly with that colour lol 😂

[@JamesWickendenVideography]

@@princemwamilee86 a mere colour couldn't make me less manly

[@WAYNESWAYS-ib3cm]

Those figures he’s just quoted for Residual values after three years are way off Your trying to tell me an Audi TT is worth only 40.1% after 3 years ! Dream On pal ! If you can Supply them at me at that price, I will buy it as many as u can get your hands on ! Don’t talk nonsense please !

[@yolkava9458]

14:31 The screen should be 4K OLED or AMOLED with Nokia Clear Black Technology. If a mobile phone can have this for as little as £600!

[@Shyted]

I’d have one instead of my A5 if it had adaptive cruise.

[@ENFDO]

TT 3.2 VR6 DSG QUATTRO mk1 is the real deal.

[@oneillcm1964]

20 sec in is 2nd gen TT not 3rd gen 2014

[@MarkJT1000]

And again later.

[@mikewazowski3201]

So just making sure, they cancelled the TT?

[@Dyniss]

Holy information.

[@MukeshVerma-kw4os]

Do you think you could get kids in the back seats? Kids are 3 and 5 but would like to keep the car for a few years..

[@rivervalegroup]

Hi Mukesh, one of our vehicle experts will be happy to answer any questions and talk through your vehicle options 👍 Book your free consultation today and we'll get in touch with all the info you need: bit.ly/39YHCml

[@timl2116]

The heart beat sound can be turned down by going into the MMI menu and adjusting the pictured volume knob on the screen. Don't ask me how to do it, because I adjusted the annoying sound out long ago and I can't remember how to do it...

[@mgboy100]

i have a 69 plater 40 tsfi s-line and would buy a newer 45tsfi quattro for keeps

[@pauldavies7469]

Great car but Turbo Blue is rancid, Ara Blue all the way!

[@rivervalegroup]

Agreed 👍

[@cabottaxi]

Found this video by mistake and you forgot to mention competition from the BMW Z4 and Porsche 718.

[@rivervalegroup]

Glad you found us! Thanks for watching - be sure to subscribe to keep up-to-date with our latest reviews - bit.ly/319ZKoT​

[@grantbradley5084]

TT nah, TTS so so, TTRS yes!👍

[@rivervalegroup]

Would you consider getting a TTRS?

[@juelz4516]

This guy is facing the wrong way every time they goto a new segment, then turns around. 😂 I know he did it on purpose but it’s funny to me.

[@RockawayCCW]

Is it just me, or does the Gen 1 still look the best?

[@rivervalegroup]

What do you like most about the gen 1 TT?

[@danparry834]

It’s just you

[@TheJumpingJake]

All i want is a Manual TTRs, FFS.

[@bazdaw]

I just bought a TTS .... it’s amazing. Makes my S3 feel like a pussy cat

[@oscardominguez1680]

Really, isn't it like the same car?

[@αισχοςντροπη]

@@oscardominguez1680 of course not. Its very different, all those who tell that everything is "golf" dont have a clue. Different suspension different handling different setup

[@franciscvmpbell]

Don’t even know why I’m watching this, I know for a fact I’m gonna buy a mk3.

[@ishraqzamee9479]

Anyone else see 6.9 mpg ?

[@milesmax1383]

so cute

[@cruxinterfaces]

Awesome work, if you want to see other great 12 volt videos please check out our page.

[@rookie145]

Brill mate Os v

[@gregsmith1070]

No idea why but when I watch this guy...I keep thinging of Jonathan Pie. Grip on to something firm everyone, could be some very bad language....maybe not..phew!

[@vomErsten]

It hasn't been a successful model because it doesn't offer enough for the price. Audi wonders why people don't want to pay $52,000 USD for an entry-level TT with some options on it, and the answer is that the Mustang, Camaro, M240i/M2, S3/RS3/Golf R, and even the MB A35/45 all offer more value for money in terms of power and driving characteristics. Frankly, the TTS should be the base trim and it should not be a $63,000 car after putting options on it that make it worthwhile.

[@markphillips116]

It's a £40k car in the UK after dealer contributions and discounts. You can't compare to a Golf or S3/RS3 as those are completely different cars, i.e. family hatch backs, not sports coupes. Also, the TT is way better to drive than both the golf R and S3/RS3 (I have owned the TTS, a Golf R and an RS3... now have a TTRS) A better comparison would be a Cayman with a few options, which will cost you a lot more than a TTS with toys. The TT has been a successful model, just not in every market Audi sells to, that's the real issue for them. Shame, as IMO it is the best car Audi makes right now.

[@craigedwards1132]

A very stereo typed review. Probably doesn’t own one.

[@XxSaM1994]

Sky blue paint with red higlights on the seats, what a disgusting spec! 🤮

[@h9rae]

Awesome review, very informative and it's refreshing to see a reviewer who actually knows his stuff and has done proper homework on the car beforehand!