Audi TT (2014 – 2023) Review

Audi TT (2014 – 2023) At A Glance

4/5
Honest John Overall Rating
The third-generation Audi TT lasted till 2023, but although the company has decided to end production, it remains an attractive, desirable and enjoyable upmarket coupe.

+Still looks sharp with a fantastic interior. Good to drive and strong engines.

-Firm ride regardless of trim level. Rear seats are useless for adults. Tiny boot.

New prices start from £33,660
Insurance Groups are between 25–44
On average it achieves 82% of the official MPG figure

It seems hard to believe the current, third-generation Audi TT coupe was launched in 2014 such is the freshness of its exterior design. Time has run out, though, with production ending in 2023 – marked by a Final Edition model being added to the range. Audi’s sports car still has plenty going for it, despite its advancing years. Read on for our full Audi TT review.

Styling is a subjective topic, but the Audi TT warrants special praise for its design. The sharp lines, neat proportions and precise detailing have created a car that looks just as fresh as when it first left the production line. Or indeed when the first generation was launched way back in 1998.

Compared to the second-generation model, this Audi TT pays closer attention to the Bauhaus look introduced by the first-generation car from 1998. Inspiration from the Audi R8 is also evident, making the Audi TT look more expensive than it actually is. It means the Audi can be considered in the same league as the Jaguar F-Type or even the Alpine A110.

The trend continues inside, with a cabin design that majors on minimalism. Placing the climate controls inside the air vents, and using a Virtual Cockpit instrument panel instead of a touchscreen, leaves the Audi TT’s interior looking simple and effective.

Practicality has never been the Audi TT’s strong point. Boot space is competitive with small hatchbacks, aided by the large tailgate, while the rear seats are useless for anyone other than small children. At least those in the front have plenty of space.

The Audi TT range now encompasses just two petrol engines, along with the upgraded petrol motor powering the Audi TTS. All manage to deliver effective performance; even the entry-level 40 TFSI is as quick as hot hatchbacks.

There is no manual gearbox available now, with a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission standard across the range. The manual was never the greatest gearbox, frankly, so this is no huge loss. The Audi TT 45 TFSI and Audi TTS come equipped with quattro all-wheel drive, aiding ability whatever the weather.

For those who want supercar-baiting performance, the Audi TT RS is still available. This is powered by the sonorous 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, developing a huge 400PS and 480Nm of torque.

The Audi TT Roadster has been a core part of the range since the original model was launched. It’s a stylish two-seater convertible, and fully deserving of its own Audi TT Roadster review.

Prices for the Audi TT now start from around £38,000, with the Audi TTS costing from £50,000 – that rivals the Porsche 718 Cayman. Standard equipment levels on the Audi TT are strong, although the options packages have the potential to push the price tag much higher.

The time left for the third-generation Audi TT is drawing to a close, but it is going out on a high. It delivers effortless performance, combined with styling that still looks modern today. Add in the well-made minimalist interior and you have a modern classic sports car in the making.

A lot may have changed in the past decade, but the Audi TT remains a sports car that is easy to recommend.

Fancy a second opinion? Read the heycar review of the Audi TT.

Ask Honest John

Can I fit run-flat tyres to my Audi TT?

"My Audi TT 2.0 S Line 40 TFSI is fitted with Bridgestone Potenza 245/35 R19 93Y tyres. They are coming up for replacement soon. Will the wheels take run flat tyres? And if so,which tyres do you recommend? "
As a general rule you can only fit run-flat tyres on a car fitted with a Tyre Pressure Monitoring System. It sounds like your TT is a newer model, in which case it should be possible to fit run-flats, however you should speak to a tyre fitter to be sure. The best run-flat tyres include the Bridgestone DriveGuard Plus, the Michelin Primacy MXM4 and the Pirelli Cinturato P7.
Answered by Lawrence Allan

Why are my Audi TT's windows opening on their own?

"I have a 2008 Audi TT and have an intermittent problem where both of the windows roll down when the vehicle is parked. I have had it in with my garage on a few occasions but no fault comes up on their computer. I have also contacted both my local Audi dealership and Audi UK who advised that they haven't come across this problem before. Do you have any idea what could be causing this?"
Reads like the 'lower all windows' function is being activated via the keyfob. This could be a fault with the key itself or you may be pressing the button by accident when it's in your pocket. You can have this feature deactivated. Your local Audi dealer should be able to do this, but it might be cheaper to use a local independent Aud specialist.
Answered by Dan Powell

Squeaking air con fan on Audi TT - should the dealer repair or replace?

"We bought a 2014 Audi TT with 38,000 miles on the clock from an independent dealer. The air con makes an annoying squeak; not loud, just persistent. We notified the dealer within a few days of purchase. The dealer offered to remove the fan motor and lubricate it but our usual garage says this won't work and that you'd need to replace the fan motor as the bearings are worn (total cost £800!) The dealer then offered to pay £100 towards replacing it. Is it reasonable to expect the selling dealer to replace the air con fan or pay the full cost of £800? Or because this is a 7 year old car would only major faults be covered? "
The 2015 Consumer Rights Act give you the right to a free repair. But it doesn't give you the right to demand a new fan motor. The dealer will reasonably argue that lubricating the motor will correct the fault. I would personally accept the repair at face value, but ask the dealer to provide a warranty (in writing) for the work carried out, which means they will pay to replace the motor free of charge if it fails within 12 months. For your consumer rights, see: https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/how-to-reject-a-car-your-consumer-rights/
Answered by Dan Powell

Can you recommend a sports car for a tall driver?

"I've not long retired and would like to get a nippy sports car. I have a budget of about £10k. I'm 6ft 8ins tall and feel my choice may be very limited. Any ideas as to what I might fit in?"
While not quite as tall as you (I'm a mere 6ft3), I too have issues getting comfortable in sports cars. I suppose it depends on what you want from a sports car. You could go for a hot hatch like a Focus ST or Octavia vRS which has plenty of space but if you want a 'true' sports car like a two-seater, you may be more limited. Porsches tend to have good space and plenty of seat adjustment so an early Cayman or a Boxster may suit. Similarly, an Audi TT could be worth a look. German cars tend to have more space than French or Japanese when it comes to sports cars.
Answered by David Ross
More Questions

What does a Audi TT (2014 – 2023) cost?