2018 Audi TTS

Apr 15, 2024, 4:12pm ET

The TTS builds on Audi's stylish TT with a 292-horsepower engine and a more aggressive appearance. The changes transform the coupe into a more aggressive sports car, one that should prove appealing for those in search of a quick two-door with a well-appointed cabin and plenty of flair.

Audi also offers the TTS as a Roadster.

Overview

Some cars are defined by their engines, others by the way they attack curves - in the TTS' case, styling is its raison d'etre. Using the progressive, modern ethos of Germany's Bauhaus art movement as a starting point, Audi's designers created a coupe that, like the original TT, incorporates arches and flowing elements to create a unique, timeless form.

Visually, the TTS stands out from the regular TT thanks to add-ons like a more aggressive-looking bumper, a model-specific grille and a new rear bumper with a large air diffuser and four exhaust pipes. The end result is a coupe that looks fast even when it's parked.

Life Aboard

Inside, the TTS upholds Audi's reputation for finely crafted cabins with a simple yet elegant dashboard and high-quality materials throughout. There's plenty of room up front, but the rear seats are occasional use units best suited for the short of limb.

The TTS comes with a Virtual Cockpit, which is Audi-speak for a 12.3-inch configurable screen that replaces the conventional analog instrument cluster. It also boasts the company's MMI touch infotainment system, and a handwriting recognition function capable of interpreting handwritten inputs.

With 12 cubic feet of trunk space, the TTS is better suited to cargo hauling than most other coupes. Additionally, its hatchback makes it easy to load bulkier items. All in all, the TTS is more practical than one might expect.

Under the Hood

Power comes from a turbocharged and direct-injected TFSI 2.0-liter four-cylinder. It makes 292 horsepower at 5,400 rpm and 280 lb-ft. of torque starting at just 1,900 rpm.

Linked to a six-speed dual-clutch transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel drive system, the turbo four sends the TTS from zero to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds -- 0.7 seconds faster than the regular TT -- and on to a top speed of 155 mph.

Fuel economy checks in at 23 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway. Those are respectable figures for a sports coupe, but note premium gas is required.

Standard and Optional Features

The TTS ships with automatic LED headlights, LED tail lamps, heated door mirrors, automatic A/C, a multi-function steering wheel, power windows, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, ambient lighting on the inside, seats upholstered in a combination of leather and Alcantara, heated front seats, cruise control, Bluetooth connectivity, a nine-speaker sound system, a Homelink Transceiver, keyless entry and start, rear parking sensors and automatic wipers.

The list of standalone options includes a Bang & Olufsen sound system, 20-inch alloy wheels, red brake calipers, and Nappa leather upholstery. White, black and yellow are the only standard colors, and anything else off of the palette adds a few digits to the price tag.

Buyers can also order the optional Technology package, which bundles Audi connect, door mirrors that are auto-dimming and power-folding, Audi side assist, a rear-view camera, navigation and Audi's parking system plus.

Occupant Safety

Every TTS model is outfitted with dual front, side, head curtain and knee airbags along with traction and stability control systems and electronic brake-pressure distribution.

Key Competitors

Alternatives to the Audi TTS include the Porsche 718 Cayman and the Alfa Romeo 4C. Buyers can also look at a fully-loaded BMW M240i.