The Audi TTS Coupe - page 2

10 months ago 25th Dec 10:20

Customers an either chose from a six speed manual transmission or the six speed S tronic direct shift automatic transmission that combines the agility and responsiveness of a conventional six speed manual gearbox with the convenience and smoothness of an automatic transmission. The electromechanical steering comes with speed dependent power assist that will breeze you in and out of any parking bay with utter ease at the same token keeping you firmly on track on the open roads. No bend is too much for this TTS. The fun I had driving this car was just wonderful and as a result I managed very little work that week. However, when you have a car like this sitting outside, it is almost a criminal offence to leave it there. This car just has to be driven over and over again.

Of course, the children loved it as they fell into the two rear seats especially when the TTS reached around 60mph and the rear spoiler raises her head. I am surprised the TTS does not cause more accidents as it must be pretty unnerving to say be behind the TTS and suddenly this thing appears out of the rear! Did the TT look better with the spoiler on permanent display I asked myself? Quite possibly but due to aerodynamic reasons, the spoiler only comes up at certain speeds.

Being low-slung one may expect a rough ride and handling. Not so in the TTS with the quattro permanent all-wheel drive, sports suspension meaning a 10mm lower ride height with stiffer damper and spring rates combined with Audi Magnetic Ride. This is an Adaptive suspension system with two modes, Normal and Sport. Sensors in the car monitor the road conditions and adjust the damping effect by varying a magnetic charge which passes through a fluid-based shock absorber for improved road handling, outstanding chassis control and in effect was one of the most comfortable cars I have driven in for a long time.

If I were tempted to try and push the TTS too far, or egged on by the children who were also thoroughly enjoying this car, I had numerous back ups ready and waiting to protect not just us but the car.

Standard safety devices comprise of ABS with Anti Slip Regulations Traction Control, ESP, Electronic Differential Lock and, being a TTS, enhanced braking system with black painted brake callipers complete with another TTS logo. Protecting the occupants are driver plus passenger airbags along with side airbags for the front seats.

The Xenon Plus headlights come with LED daytime driving lights, headlight washer system and Adaptive lights, which I believe should now be standard on every car, for cornering at nighttime is so much safer as the lights pick up the kerb. Other toys are the acoustic parking system, Audi Hill Hold Assist, ISOFIX preparations for the two rear seats and the useful tyre pressure monitor system. Securing the TTS is a Thatchme Category 1 alarm.

I am always asked what car I would personally choose to own. Up until now it was the Jaguar XKR. Not any more. My choice has now been replaced with the Audi TTS Coupe and if money were no object I would also have a TTS Roadster for the summer. I loved this car and everything about it. The ride, the power, the handling the fun right down to the fact that the boot is accommodating for the weekly shop.

Vorsprung durch Technik – indeed

Jackie Violet - Female First