2015 Audi TT coupe review, test drive

What’s impressive though is the largely unrestricted visibility from the driver’s seat. Sure, you sit a bit higher than, say, a Porsche Cayman and while this does take away that close-to-the-ground connection you get in some hardcore sportscars, the TT is much easier to navigate through the chaotic traffic on our roads. So far, the exquisite styling, both inside and out, feels typically TT-ish. What about the substance then?

While 227bhp doesn’t come across as jaw-dropping (especially amongst Audi’s hairy RS cars), in the real world, the TT packs enough punch to plaster more than just a smile on your face. Thanks to its quick-shifting six-speed dual clutch gearbox, it whooshes forward with zeal, letting out a loud ‘braap’ from the exhaust when trading up a cog. And engaging the more focused Dynamic Mode pipes additional engine sound into the cabin, enhancing the experience. In other modes, although not loud, you can still hear a nice sporty growl every time the rev counter crosses 4,500rpm, which gets more rorty near its 6,800rpm limiter. Flat out, it’ll sprint from 0 to 100kph in just 5.8 seconds before eventually being reined in at 250kph by the electronic nanny.

So, while style and straight-line ability isn’t a deal breaker, does the TT possessthe dynamics to be called a proper sportscar? Well, yes. The TT turns into corners with immense grip and very little understeer — there’s a lot more ‘sportscar’ DNA in the way it negotiates twisties. Also, the steering is very precise and doesn’t feel overly light either. The quick succession of corners on the way to Aamby Valley, exhibited the TT’s ability to dig into the tarmac, and the balanced handling made it easy for me to dart from apex to apex without concern. That said, if only the TT’s steering allowed for more dialogue, it would have been almost perfect.

While the slightly numb nature of the steering makes the TT less engaging to drive than some of its rivals, what sets it leagues ahead of its peers is the way it rides. The suspension set in comfort displays a kind of elegance that isn’t far from most compact luxury cars. There’s none of that excessive firmness typically associated with sportscars and instances of potholes crashing into the cabin are rather rare.

So, without doubt, this is Audi’s best TT yet. It looks fantastic, and now drives a lot more in sync with the way it looks. Sure, the steering isn’t as engaging to drive as a Porsche Boxster’s, but the new TT’s easy-to-live-with demeanour makes up for that. Now, the expected price of over Rs 60 lakh,makes it pricier than the older one. However, the blend of style, performance, usability and its ability to make you feel like a million bucks is hard to match.