Introduction

Audi TT – 2008 Review: Marriage isn’t for everyone. Luxurious European vacations aren’t for everyone. But for those who dream of both, a well-funded wedding in Italy may be a dream come true. Same goes for the 2008 Audi TT. The maker of outstanding rides such as the R8 and S4 may not be first on everyone’s list, and a storage-deficient two-passenger drop-top is certainly off the radar for millions of car buyers. But shoppers looking for a luxurious roadster, with a healthy complement of capability tossed in, will be hard-pressed to find a better prize than the 2008 Audi TT.

What We Drove
A 2008 TT Roadster base model can be purchased for as little as $37,575 including a $775 destination charge. However, we borrowed the 3.2 model from Audi, a sexy Brilliant Black example with a black roof and a Luxor Beige interior. Besides a V-6 engine and an S tronic transmission, our test car featured an iPod interface ($250), Bluetooth capability ($450), Bi-Xenon headlights ($800), and 18-inch alloys with summer tires. Our TT also included the Audio Package ($1,000) that added Bose sound and Sirius satellite radio, and the Enhanced Interior Package ($1,250) which added leather upholstery and extra storage. The final tally came to $51,225.

Performance
With only 250 horses available to move 3,450 pounds, the TT’s V-6 might appear to be overtaxed, though the Audi-reported 0-60 mph time of 5.3 seconds would suggest otherwise. We didn’t pull out the radar gun, but there’s no denying this convertible is quick, offering plenty of punch all across the rev range. Adding to the fun is a raspy exhaust note and the dual-clutch transmission. In Drive mode, the throttle is a bit jerky upon startup, but shifts are ultra smooth; downshifts come quicker in Sport mode unless drivers use the paddles to personally dictate shift points.