The performance variant of Audi's eye-catching TT coupe and roadster, the TTS boasts more power and tauter underpinnings for an invigorating driving experience. Standard all-wheel drive and a striking exterior remain central to the model's appeal.
A Competition Package is a new option for the coupe.
Available as hatchback coupe or soft-top roadster, the TTS gets a 2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 265 horsepower, 54 more than the regular TT. The TTS also benefits from an adaptive suspension system, larger brakes and standard summer performance tires on 19-inch wheels. A six-speed automated manual transmission completes the mechanical setup.
The TTS comes in a single trim level with features such as heated leather seats, adaptive xenon headlights, LED running lights, Bluetooth phone and a 12-speaker Bose surround-sound system. Extended leather interior trim with baseball-like stitching is available as an upgrade.
The Optic Black Package adds titanium-finish wheels, carbon fiber mirror housings and a gloss black grille. There's also the Navigation Plus Package with a navigation system, rear parking sensors, a driver information display and a lap timer. Note that a rearview camera and advanced alert systems are not available on the TTS yet, a shortcoming that will undoubtedly be addressed by a redesign expected for 2016.
For even great distinction, the coupe can get a Competition Package with lightweight wheels, gray-painted brake calipers, a rear spoiler and special exterior colors.
The rear seats in the coupe aren't really intended for human occupants, but they do fold forward to accommodate a surprising amount of cargo. The roadster, of course, dispenses with the extra seats altogether, which gives it enough trunk space for weekend's worth of luggage.
With its hatchback design and folding jump seats, the coupe is surprisingly practical for this class of car. It's the clear choice if you intend to use your TTS as a daily driver.
