2013 Audi TTS Roadster

Now on its second generation -- which was first unveiled for the 2008 model year and since updated for the latest model year -- the TTS Roadster is a sporty luxury convertible that is positioned above the standard TT Roadster in terms of power and price.

Visually, the latest TTS Roadster maintains the same general look of its predecessor while adding sharper character lines and Audi's current corporate grille. Compared with the normal Roadster, the TTS model is differentiated by a unique body kit and a more aggressive lower front fascia. The interior upholds Audi's reputation for finely crafted cabins with a simple yet elegant dashboard and high-quality materials throughout.

The TTS Roadster produces 265 horsepower at 6,000 rpm from a tuned version of VW's venerable 2.0-liter turbo inline-four with direct fuel injection. Torque plateaus at 258 lb-ft from 2,500 to 5,000 rpm, and the gains were attained thanks to a new engine block, cylinder head, pistons and connecting rods. The engine handily out-muscles the standard turbo's 200 horsepower and 207 lb-ft numbers, and the optional 3.2-liter V6's 250hp and 236lb-ft.

The exclusive dancing partners of that powerplant are Audi's revised all-wheel drive system and a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox the automaker calls S-Tronic.

Audi promises performance that performance is brisk, claiming that the zero-to-60 mpg sprint can be achieved in 5.1 seconds. Top speed, as seems to be the common practice in German-made vehicles, is artificially limited to 155mph.

Trim Level Breakdown
The TTS Roadster can be had with a choice of two trim levels: Premium Plus and Prestige.

The TTS Premium Plus comes standard with power-adjustable Nappa leather sports seats, a leather-wrapped, flat-bottom multifunction sport steering wheel with paddle shifters, Bluetooth smartphone connectivity, xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights and 19-inch alloy wheels.

The TTS Prestige adds to those features with a navigation system with real-time traffic updates, a 12-speaker, 255-watt Bose audio system, a six-disc CD changer and an ultrasonic rear parking system.

Occupant Safety
Every TT model is outfitted with dual front, side and knee airbags along with traction and stability control systems and electronic brake-pressure distribution.

Key Competitors
Rivals to the TTS Roadster include the BMW Z4, the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class and the Porsche Boxster.