Used Audi TT Review (2014-2023) MK3
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Fantastic to drive
- Stylish design
- Well-equipped as standard
- Impractical rear seats
- Firm ride
- More expensive than rivals
What's the Audi TT like?
Used Audi TT prices are higher than rivals because so many people want to own one.
And I could easily be included in that number if the right car came into my radar because they have good to superb performance allied to a stylish, high-quality cabin and reasonable practicality.
That practicality doesn't extend to the rear seats however; even small children may find them a bit of a squeeze.
The present model has been on the market since 2014 and replaced a car that was already very good as a sporting coupé or convertible.
All have a very good reputation for reliability and longevity and with this model Audi stuck to the winning iconic shape that had won so many friends.
Engines
Would you believe that under the skin, it shares a basic platform with the VW Golf, the SEAT Ateca and a number of other models from the VW stable.
But there’s nothing wrong with that, since all those other cars are also great in their own ways.
Engines available in the TT since 2014 start with a 184bhp turbo diesel that is now discontinued. It gives good performance, with 0 to 60mph in and around an excellent 6.8 seconds and economy of better than 50mpg.
Sadly, it doesn’t have the soundtrack of the petrol models, which start with a 180bhp 1.8-litre turbo that covers the 60mph sprint in about the same time, and averages 47mpg on the government average. That means driven reasonably carefully it should do 38mpg in real driving.
Next comes a 2.0-litre FSI turbo with 230 or 310bhp in different models. The 230 model sprints to 60mph in circa 5.4 seconds while the 310bhp model manages the same acceleration in approximately 4.8 seconds.
Economy ranges from 40 to 44mpg.
Finally, there is the TT RS – a supercar to take your breath away – with 400bhp under the bonnet from a 5-cylinder 2.5-litre turbo and 0 to 60mph in under 4 seconds.
Driving Experience
All models have excellent road-holding and very good stability helps them to be driven quickly even over challenging terrain.
Peter Hayward
Most models are available with Quattro 4WD (four-wheel drive), which only adds to the stability and grip available.
The brakes are superb in every situation and the handling very good, but the overall experience sometimes seems a little sanitized compared to other fast coupés.
A Drive Select system allows the driver to choose steering sensitivity and engine response and it also controls the amount of power to front and rear wheels in Quattro models.
The ride quality is definitely on the firm side, but if you stick to nothing larger than the standard 18 or 19-inch wheels, it’s acceptable in such a sporting car.
Bigger wheels or the optional lower S-Line suspension affect comfort a lot more.
Equipment
Equipment levels are good in all. The entry level Sport brings 18-inch alloys, rear parking sensors, leather upholstery, keyless ignition, cruise, air conditioning, xenon headlights and a virtual cockpit infotainment system with DAB radio, USB and Bluetooth.
S-Line adds LED headlights, specific bumpers and grille, rear diffuser, special seats and a black headlining.
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Find your Used Audi TT your way with CarStore
If you're in the market for a fast used coupé that's brilliant to drive and very stylish then you'll be hard pushed to find a better option than the Audi TT. Its long list of standard equipment, good build quality and impressive reliability help to make it a great used car buy.
