2009 Audi TT in Cincinnati

Perhaps the TTS coupe and roadster that graced our fleet before this regular TT coupe have altered my expectations of the TT and its DSG transmission, but I was disappointed in this car. I found the power to be a bit lower than I remembered, and the DSG seemed to be sluggish on downshifts as well as unrefined when leaving a stop. Is the TTS that much better than the TT, or is this not a typical example of the base TT?

I've always enjoyed my time in the various TTs I've driven over the years, and other than the DSG/power issues in this car, it was the same experience as before. The radio sounds great, even with the windows down, and this TT provided me with my first windows-down commute of 2009, so it holds a special place in my heart for that alone. Everyone loves an Audi interior, and this exterior is just as pleasant. Another item Audi has really been getting right lately is its choice in wheels. The TTs have some very sharp looking wheels and the TTS goes a step beyond.

Overall the TT is one of those unfortunate cars that I'm fond of driving and would happily recommend to a friend more concerned with style and refinement than driving excitement, but I don't have a burning desire to hang on to the keys for more than a weekend. The mix of price, design, and performance just doesn't quite hit the sweet spot for me in this class of vehicle. But I'd never look down on anyone who decided to purchase a TT for any of those reasons.

Phil Floraday, Senior Online Editor