Audi TT 2005 review

Equipped with Audi's new direct-shift gearbox (DSG), the TT behaves differently in each of the three transmission choices offered.

In full automatic the TT is a cruiser, albeit a quick one, with gear changes almost seamless and a transmission that is, in all but a few situations, in the right gear at the right time.

Finally, for the driver who wants the fun of a manual, there is the option of the tiptronic mode, which can be shifted using paddles on the steering wheel or the gear lever.

Throw in a 3.2-litre V6 engine and a few tweaks inside and out and Audi's TT model will comfortably cruise to its replacement date (about two years) without growing old.

The launch of the 3.2 V6 TT gives customers something to smile about.

The DSG is not new but was only sampled when mated to the A3's 2.0-litre diesel engine, not the 3.2 stonker that is under the new TT's bonnet.

DSG is Audi's double-clutch automatic transmission. The two clutches operate simultaneously – one is able to open at the same time the other is closing, with an overlap between the two, so changes are almost seamless (0.2 seconds to change cogs).

Changes in manual mode are simply quicker than a driver can do using a conventional manual, unless the driver changes without using the clutch, and most gearboxes won't stand for that for too long.

In auto there were a few occasions when the box was a little hesitant (mainly in heavy traffic) but overall the system felt one step ahead and was always in the right gear at the right time.

Sports mode is perfect for the windy long stretch of road with the system holding the gear for longer (up and down). It's not as easy to control in traffic.

The rough feel of the clutch when starting gives the TT that manual feeling, which not many tiptronics offer. The transversely mounted engine produces 184kW of power at 6300rpm and 320Nm of torque between 2800rpm and 3200rpm.

On the outside, changes are subtle but enough to freshen the TT's overall look and distinguish it from its turbo cousin. The larger rear wing and black honeycomb-patterned new bumper panel are the key features.

Inside, changes are also subtle, with the 3.2 gaining an aluminium gear surround and a different instrument cluster.

The extra grunt means more additions to control it, which sees the 3.2 get upgraded anti-roll bars, upgraded brakes, stiffer suspension, and the other big addition of Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system.

Like all TT models the new version has plenty of safety additions, including two front airbags and pyrotechnic belt tensioners for the front seats. Head/thorax airbags in the front seat backs protect the upper body and head in a side impact.

The TT comes with automatic climate control and has some cool extras like the trendy chrome cover that conceals the radio when not in use. The power window buttons are in an unusual position and took a while getting used to and the lack of steering wheel radio controls means a slight reach is needed to turn the volume up or down.

While not electric, a comfortable seating position was not hard to find.

Unlike many coupes, the TT has a fair number of storage compartments, but essentially remains a two-seater, with room in the rear only for small people.

Then of course, there is that sweet Audi smell.

On the road the bright Imola yellow TT attracted a lot of attention and a few sore necks, with its head-turning looks.

The TT also features a driver navigation system integrated into the main computer system.