2018 Audi TTS Roadster

Apr 23, 2024, 4:48pm ET

The TTS Roadster builds on Audi's stylish TT Roadster with a 292-horsepower engine and a more aggressive appearance. The changes transform the drop-top 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 a fixed-roof variant of the TTS.

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 convertible 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 convertible 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.

The soft top weighs 86 pounds thanks to a frame built using lightweight materials such as magnesium, aluminum and plastic. When down, the top sits on an aluminum tray mounted above the cargo compartment, meaning trunk space checks in at 9.9 cubic feet regardless of whether or not the sun is shining. It can be opened or closed in ten seconds, even at speeds of up to 31 mph.

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 roadster, 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, 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 Boxster and the Alfa Romeo 4C. Buyers can also look at a fully-loaded BMW M240i Convertible.