Model tested: Audi TT Coupe 2.0 TDi Quattro
Price: £25,600
Date tested: September 2008
Road tester: Stuart Milne

Overall rating: 86%
The TT is now in its second generation, and is one of the few affordable style icons on sale. It's effortlessly stylish; but still appealing to driving enthusiasts, with ample performance.

1. Looks
The second-generation TT is more mature than its predecessor, although some have criticised it for lacking the artistic drama of the first car. We reckon Audi's design has moved while adopting a more sober look.
9/10

2. Looks inside
Like every other model in Audi's current range, the TT blends Germanic style with tremendous build quality. Dark grey, soft-touch plastics are everywhere, lifted by chrome trim.
9/10

3. Practicality
The TT is a 2+2 rather than a full four-seater. The boot is surprisingly large for a small coupe, measuring 290 litres. Cabin space is reasonable, and the rear seats provide ample space for luggage without using the boot.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
Audi has turned the TT into a genuine enthusiast's car, with poise and agility. The steering offers plenty of feedback and there's virtually no bodyroll through faster bends. Despite this the ride is good, making it an exceptional all-rounder.
9/10

5. Performance
The TT is fast, with its 170bhp 2-litre TDi engine. The 258lb/ft of torque provides a 7.5-second 0-62mph time and a 139mph top speed. Audi's S-Tronic auto cuts 0.2 seconds from the 0-62mph dash.
10/10

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6. Running Costs
The TT TDi manages 51.4mpg and emits 144g/km of CO2, placing it in tax band C, at £140 per year. Its company car tax is just 19 per cent. Used values are strong; expect it to retain 60% of its value after three years/36,000 miles.
8/10

7. Reliability
Proven components and strong build quality should add up to fine reliability. The interior feels exceptionally well put together. Owners give it a high 4.5/5 star rating at the user review site Drive the Debate.
8/10

8. Safety
The TT has a four-star EuroNCAP rating and features ABS, traction control, driver, passenger and front side airbags, electronic differential lock and ESP as standard.
8/10

9. Equipment
All TTs feature 17-inch alloys, a 9-speaker, 140-watt MP3-compatible single-CD player, leather/alcantara interior, front sports seats, trip computer, climate control, electrically-operated and heated door mirrors, electric windows and an automatic rear spoiler.
8/10

10. X-Factor
If the TT missed the mark dynamically, it would still sell thanks to its stunning looks. But the fact it can mix it with the best drivers' cars on sale should guarantee it shortlist status on any coupe buyers' shopping list.
9/10