The first road tests of the new Audi TT are starting to come out: the english magazines Autocar and Auto Express managed to drive the 3.2 FSI with the double clutch robotic gearbox S-Tronic.

Let’s start with Autocar, who notes that the new TT is both bigger and lighter than the old one, and that the S-Tronic gearbox is even better than the VW DSG from which it derives in coupling smoothnes and speed of gear changes.

Autocar goes on to note the rear spoiler that deploys at 75 mph:

“Which brings us neatly to probably the most important question about the car: has the new TT shaken off the dynamic foibles of the first TT? Is this new one as good to drive as they’ve promised? The answer’s a profound yes.”

With wider tracks and new suspensions “… stability has been improved out of sight … and when you come off the power there’s none of the old corkscrew antics.”

The driver has more control, the car, there’s much less pitch and roll over road undulations and irregularities.

Thanks to the speed-sensitive electro-hydraulical power-steering, and provided you trust the Quattro 4WD system:

“… it can be made to corner in a fantastically neutral manner. It’s a process that calls for delicate steering inputs, but it is hugely satisfying. And get this: it elevates the TT’s dynamic prowess to a level where it can genuinely be regarded as a rival to the Cayman S.”

Autocar’s conclusion is that, based on what’s on offer, Audi could sell much more than its target of 65.000 TTs per year.

Going on to Auto Express’ road test:

“the two-plus-two cabin has been revamped to offer improved space in the rear seats. Material quality is superb, and while the dials and switches look familiar, the layout is new. The exception is the flat-bottomed steering wheel, borrowed from the RS4.”

Auto Express laments an exhaust note not aggressive enough to give justice to the 3.2 FSI TT’s performance (5.7 from 0-100 km/h with the S-Tronic gearbox).

Their impressions:

“the new TT is 50 per cent stiffer than before … On the road, the result is impressive stability. Also, the steering feels crisper than before, responding more accurately even to the smallest inputs.”

Prices and technical details have been confirmed: 31,900 € for the 2.0 TFSI, 39,900 € for the 3.2 FSI, 2.100 € more for the S-Tronic gearbox (prices in germany).

[Autocar road test via Autoblog.nl]

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