2011 Audi TT

Review

The 2011 Audi TT has undergone some styling updates and engine adjustments, as well as shaving off a few pounds. The manufacturer lightened up the TT with more aluminum up front and steel components at the rear.

Engine

An all-new 2.0 TFSI 4-cylinder engine optimizes the 2011 TT's fuel efficiency with the official mpg reported by Audi ranging from 21 to 29, although as a performance car it does take premium fuel.

Despite its lighter appetite, the TT Coupe, with 211 hp and 258 pound feet of torque at 1,600 to 4,200 rpm, still packs a punch. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes a scant 5.3 seconds. Audi's 2011 TT comes in manual or automatic transmission modes. The automatic is equipped with a 6-speed transmission that combines the Audi Quattro drive train with "S tronic" dual-clutch system for an automatic/manual hybrid.

Features

The starting MSRP for the Premium Plus TT Coupe is $38,300, while the deluxe Prestige model starts at $44,400. Deluxe features include heated leather sport seats and a BOSE premium sound system. Design updates for 2011 are a more prominent front bumper, a single high-gloss lattice grill, 18-inch five-arm wheels and chrome-framed fog lights. A retractable spoiler adds aerodynamic style.

Test Drive

The 2011 Audi TT features an all-wheel-drive design that test drivers found to handle well in inclement weather due to improved traction in back. More weight distributed over the back wheels affords the TT a smoother ride as well. The 2011 TT received kudos for its increased power, although lighter sports cars such as the Miata may provide superior handling on the s-curves. The cast-iron TT engine weight accounts for more sluggish response to tight switchbacks.

Performance

The 2011 TT 's 2.0 liter, DOHC in-line 4-cylinder engine is turbocharged with intercooler, and features FSI direct gasoline injection. The Audi valvelift system, standard in TT Coupes, has two separate lift settings for exhaust valves and adds more power and torque to the engine as well as increasing fuel efficiency.

Interior Features

Standard in both the Premium Plus and Prestige TT models is a leather-wrapped magnesium, flat-bottom, sport steering wheel with shift paddles for the sports car effect. Low-slung leather driver and passenger seats adjust in 10 positions, including a lumbar support setting. The cockpit-style driver area positions all the backlit controls, including the on-board computer system, front and center. Such features as automatic air conditioning and auto windshield wipers take over the simple tasks with the help of temperature and weather sensors, so the driver can focus on the highway. High-tech features include a blue-tooth plug-in, Audi music interface with Ipod capability, and MMI navigation.

2011 Audi TT Summary

Pros of Purchasing the 2011 Audi TT

• Good fuel economy
• All-wheel-drive reliability
• Classic sports car styling with brawny lines
• High performance brake system
• Powerful engine

Cons of Purchasing the 2011 Audi TT

• Slightly cumbersome on tight curves
• Higher price than some comparable sports cars
• Uses premium fuel
• No front-wheel-drive option in the U.S.