Audi TT Roadster Review 2026
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Audi TT Roadster Verdict
Impressive levels of grip. Good to drive. Efficient diesel model. Quality cabin with excellent 'Virtual Cockpit' as standard.
Still not a sports car. Jittery ride over broken British backroads. Reports of water ingress problems caused by the fabric roof.
Find out more about the Audi TT Roadster
Insurance Groups are between 34–47
On average it achieves 79% of the official MPG figure
Open-top motoring is part of the Audi TT’s DNA. The original 1998 car appeared as a concept in both coupe and roadster forms before production started, so a soft-top variant of the third generation model was something of an inevitability. No doubt it will be as popular as its predecessors.
And it deserves to be popular. The latest TT Roadster is every bit as good to drive as the coupe model, with masses of grip and impressive body control. It also shares its fantastic cabin with the coupe, complete with the high-tech virtual cockpit instrument binnacle. This is a large digital display incorporating navigation, speedo, rev counter and connectivity.
The party-piece of the TT Roadster is, of course, the folding fabric roof. It can be operated at speeds up to 30mph and takes 10 seconds. Audi elected not to install a multi-piece metal roof in order to keep the proportions correct and the weight down – which means less to go wrong, but poorer security when parked up.
Refinement with the roof down is good even at high speeds, with little in the way of buffeting thanks in part to an optional retractable wind break that keeps turbulence from forming behind the seats. For those cool but dry days buyers can specify a pack that includes heated seats and ventilation that blows warm air on the your neck.
The folding roof does mean there are no rear seats in the TT Roadster, but the rear seats in the coupe are so small you can barely use them anyway. There is also an impact on the boot, which at 280 litres is okay for shopping or a weekend away, but is too shallow for anything particularly bulky.
The engine range is the same as the coupe, with a 184PS 2.0 TDI and a 230PS petrol forming the mainstay with a 310PS TTS quattro petrol at the top of the range. The petrol engines suit that TT Roadster best thanks to a great exhaust note and linear, strong power delivery. The diesel is fine too, but with the roof down it lacks the aural drama of the petrol models.
The TT isn’t quite as exciting to drive as the more expensive Porsche Boxster and it can get a bit jittery on poor roads, but it is still a tremendously impressive car. It is solidly made, good to drive and features plenty of neat, high-tech features. For those seeking a premium soft top it ticks all the right boxes.
Reviews for Audi TT Roadster's top 3 rivals
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Audi TT Roadster handling and engines
- Engines range from 1.8 TFSI 180 to 50 TFSI quattro S tronic
- Readers report Real MPG to be between 28–54 mpg
Audi is offering the same range of engines for the TT Roadster as it is for the Coupe, meaning a choice of 2.0-litre TFSI petrol or 2.0-litre TDI diesel. The petrol produces 230PS and is offered with either a six-speed manual and front-wheel drive or a six-speed S Tronic automatic with quattro all-wheel drive.
The diesel is only available with a six-speed manual and front wheel drive and – as you would expect – it is the most economical option. Official economy is 65.7mpg and emissions are 114g/km, so tax is cheap. Performance is still impressive though, especially when on the move thanks to a hefty 380Nm of torque.
If you go for a manual, whether petrol or diesel, you’ll get a slick and precise gear change. Despite being front-wheel drive only, there’s plenty of grip thorough corners. The diesel really suits the coupe, but with the roof down in the Roadster it doesn’t sound very good.
The 2.0-litre TFSI can be paired to a six-speed S Tronic transmission and quattro all-wheel drive. This set up really helps the TT Roadster get all its power down, improving traction when cornering or when accelerating hard – plus there is a wonderful pop from the exhaust on upshifts.
The top-of-the range TTS gets the same 2.0-litre TFSI engine, S Tronic transmission and quattro system but with power boosted to 310PS. Performance is impressive, but it is perhaps a bit much for UK roads – we’d recommend the less powerful 230PS model since it's more useable in everyday situations.
The TT Roadster gets a Drive Mode Selector, which allows the driver to set up the steering weight, throttle response and, in the S Tronic, the shifting pattern to suit different situations.
There are five driving modes - Comfort for town driving, dynamic for a twisting route, an efficiency mode for saving fuel on a long journey, an automatic mode that adapts to the situation plus a customisable ‘Individual’ mode. This allows the driver to tune various options to suit personal preferences.
Find a twisting road and the TT Roadster can be a lot of fun. Performance is good and there is plenty of grip, but broken British road surfaces upset the overly firm suspension, which can sometimes make the car jittery or even uncomfortable over partiuclarly large potholes and bumps
In fact the firm suspension doesn't do much for your confidence when pressing on at pace. In fact, though the TT Roadster is certainly fun, it would be a stretch to call it a genuine sports car – it lacks the nimbleness, agiity and composure of the admittedly more expensive Porsche Boxster.
Nonetheless it is very good fun to drive on the right road. But it is also easy to live with in town thanks to the selectable driving modes and steering that can change its weighting – it’s light when parking or in town and heavier when driving hard. For an everyday car that is fun when you want it to be there is plenty to like about the TT Roadster.
| Engine | MPG | 0-62 | CO2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.8 TFSI 180 | 46 mpg | 7.2 s | 142 g/km |
| 1.8 TFSI 180 S tronic | 47 mpg | 7.3 s | 136 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI | 59–61 mpg | 7.3 s | 114–121 g/km |
| 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic | 50 mpg | 7.0 s | 147 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI | 46 mpg | 6.2 s | 140–144 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic | 41 mpg | 5.6 s | 154–158 g/km |
| 2.0 TFSI S tronic | 42 mpg | 6.1 s | 151–155 g/km |
| 40 TFSI | - | - | 144 g/km |
| 40 TFSI S tronic | 45 mpg | 6.9 s | 144–161 g/km |
| 45 TFSI | 42–42 mpg | 6.1 s | 154 g/km |
| 45 TFSI quattro S tronic | 39–39 mpg | 5.4–6.0 s | 166–188 g/km |
| 45 TFSI S tronic | 39–42 mpg | 5.5–6.0 s | 152–166 g/km |
| 46 TFSI quattro S tronic | 39 mpg | 5.5 s | 165 g/km |
| 50 TFSI quattro S tronic | - | 4.8 s | 193–196 g/km |
| TTS 2.0 TFSI quattro | 38 mpg | 5.2 s | 169–173 g/km |
| TTS 2.0 TFSI quattro Roadster | 38 mpg | 5.2 s | 173 g/km |
| TTS 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic | 40 mpg | 4.9 s | 129–163 g/km |
| TTS 2.0 TFSI quattro S tronic Roadster | 39–40 mpg | 4.8–4.9 s | 163–166 g/km |
Real MPG average for the Audi TT Roadster
Real MPG was created following thousands of readers telling us that their cars could not match the official figures.
Real MPG gives real world data from drivers like you to show how much fuel a vehicle really uses.
Average performance
79%
Real MPG
28–54 mpg
MPGs submitted
24
Audi TT Roadster interior
- Boot space is 280–305 litres
- Euro NCAP rating of four stars
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4177–4201 mm |
| Width | 1832–1966 mm |
| Height | 1345–1355 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2505 mm |
From the driver’s seat the cabin of the TT Roadster is exactly the same as that of the coupe – which is a very good thing. The digital instrument binnacle is the centrepiece, incorporating the rev counter, speedometer, navigation, audio display, trip computer and connectivity into one clear, crisp, colour display.
It works really well and it doesn't take too long to get used to. There is a large control dial mounted behind the gear selector with a touch sensitive pad for inputting letters, plus there are controls on the steering wheel for changing the display when on the move. You can even minimise the rev counter and speedo, filling the screen with a large, clear map.
The placement of the infotainment screen means the rest of the cabin is uncluttered and classily laid out. The switches in the centre of the turbine-style air vents are used to set the climate control which keeps the rest of the centre dash clear and neat. It looks great and everything feels very well made, as you would expect from Audi.
The folding fabric roof can be operated when moving at speeds up to 30mph and takes 10 seconds to extend or retract, so you ought not to get caught out in a rain shower. There is an optional pack that includes an electronically controlled windbreak to keep cabin noise down at speed, along with heated seats and a neck warmer for cold days.
The fitment of the soft top means there are no rear seats in the Roadster, but they were so small in the coupe it isn’t a huge loss. The boot is less practical, however. It has a decent volume of 280 litres with the roof up or down, but it is quite shallow, so bulky items won’t fit properly.
Standard equipment includes the nifty ‘virtual cockpit’, along with useful features like DAB radio and Bluetooth, but there are also plenty of optional extras including full LED headlights and various safety gear like collision mitigating brakes.
Standard equipment:
Sport gets 18-inch 10 spoke alloy wheels, xenon headlights with LED daytime running lights, LED rear lights, heated door mirrors, manual air con, a retractable rear spoiler, Audi drive select with five driving modes, Audi virtual cockpit, MMI control system for infotainment, keyless start, sport seats finished in part leather and a first aid kit.
S line has 19-inch five arm design alloy wheels, light and rain sensors, sports seats finished in black leather, S line badges, LED headlights, LED indicator lights and S line bumpers.
Audi TT Roadster models and specs
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length | 4177–4201 mm |
| Width | 1832–1966 mm |
| Height | 1345–1355 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2505 mm |
| Miscellaneous | |
|---|---|
| Kerb Weight | 1300–1510 kg |
| Boot Space | 280–305 L |
| Warranty | 3 years / 60000 miles |
| Servicing | 9000–18000 miles |
| Costs | |
|---|---|
| List Price | £35,410–£48,850 |
| Insurance Groups | 34–47 |
| Road Tax Bands | C–J |
| Official MPG | 37.7–61.4 mpg |
| Euro NCAP Safety Ratings | |
|---|---|
| Adult | - |
| Child | - |
| Pedestrian | - |
| Overall | 4 |
Currently on sale
On sale until April 2021
| Roadster | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| TTS 306ps Quattro Black Edition S tronic 2dr | £49,860 | 38.7 mpg | 4.8 s |
| TTS 306ps Quattro S Tronic 2dr | £47,660 | 39.2 mpg | 4.8 s |
| TTS 306ps Quattro Vorsprung S tronic 2dr | £55,860 | 38.7 mpg | 4.8 s |
On sale until April 2019
On sale until April 2017
| Roadster | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 1.8 TFSI 180ps Black Edition 2dr | £33,995 | 46.3 mpg | - |
| 2.0 TDI 184ps Ultra Black Edition 2dr | £37,075 | 61.4 mpg | - |
| 2.0 TFSI 230 Quattro Black Edition S tronic 2dr | £40,130 | 40.9 mpg | - |
| 2.0 TFSI 230ps Black Edition 2dr | £37,180 | 45.6 mpg | - |
| 2.0 TFSI 230ps Black Edition S tronic 2dr | £38,700 | 42.2 mpg | - |
| TTS 2.0 TFSI 310 Quattro Black Edition S tronic 2dr | £45,030 | 39.8 mpg | - |
| TTS 2.0 TFSI 310ps Quattro Black Edition 2dr | £43,665 | 37.7 mpg | - |
On sale until October 2015
| Convertible | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Version | List Price | MPG | 0-62 |
| 2.0 quattro 310 2dr | £41,130 | 37.7 mpg | 5.2 s |
| 2.0 quattro 310 S tronic Auto 2dr | £42,495 | 39.8 mpg | 4.9 s |
| 2.0 TDI S Line 184 2dr | £34,545 | 61.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
| 2.0 TDI Sport 184 2dr | £31,995 | 61.4 mpg | 7.3 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro S Line 230 Auto 2dr | £37,595 | 40.9 mpg | 5.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro Sport 230 Auto 2dr | £35,045 | 40.9 mpg | 5.6 s |
| 2.0 TFSI S Line 230 2dr | £34,650 | 45.6 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 2.0 TFSI S Line 230 Auto 2dr | £36,165 | 42.2 mpg | 6.1 s |
| 2.0 TFSI Sport 230 2dr | £32,100 | 45.6 mpg | 6.2 s |
| 2.0 TFSI Sport 230 Auto 2dr | £33,615 | 42.2 mpg | 6.1 s |
Model History
- September 2014: New TT Roadster revealed
- February 2015: TTS quattro Roadster announced
- November 2016: TT Black Edition launched
- January 2017: Quattro TDI versions TT Roadster introduced
- September 2018
September 2014
New TT Roadster revealed
As with all Audi Cabriolet models, the new TT Roadster and TTS Roadster also feature an electrically actuated fabric top. Every version benefits as standard from the more insulating acoustic top with its extremely effective thermal insulation and low noise level, especially in the frequency range of the airflow. The thick fleece layer on the black inner headlining adds comfort. Depending on frequency, the noise level in the interior has been reduced by up to 6 dB compared with the previous TT Roadster.
At 4,177 millimeters in length the two‑seater is 21 millimetres shorter than its predecessor. Its wheelbase has grown by 37 millimetres to 2,505 millimetres, contributing to shorter overhangs for an even more purposeful stance. With a width of 1,832 millimetres, the new TT Roadster is 10 millimetres narrower than its predecessor, and at a height of 1,355 millimetres it is 3 millimetres lower.
The sleek new body can be painted in a far more distinct and varied range of colours than its predecessor. There are 10 exterior colours, one of which is exclusively reserved for the S line. Five of the colours in the palette are new for the TT, and two of these are completely new for Audi: nano grey and tango red. Panther black, crystal effect and the expressive Sepang blue are also available for the TTS.
The two electric motors powering the soft-top complete the opening and closing process in 10 seconds, and can do so at speeds of up to 31mph. While opening, the top forms a Z shape as it folds flat into its aluminium tray, which doesn’t encroach on the 280 litre luggage compartment. Sophisticated clamping technology ensures that the closed top is completely taut even at high speeds. An electrically powered mesh wind deflector can also be specified as an option.
The new TT Roadster launched with two turbocharged four-cylinder engines - a TDI and a TFSI – leaving the most powerful four-cylinder TFSI for the TTS Roadster. All meet the Euro 6 standard, and all are linked to a start-stop system as standard.
Featuring 184PS and 380Nmof torque, the 2.0 TDI ultra combines great strength with remarkable restraint where economy is concerned – it can return up to 65.7mpg, which equates to emissions of 114g/km.
The 2.0 TFSI produces 230PS and 370Nm of torque in the TT Roadster; in the TTS Roadster, output rises to 310PS and 380Nm. The top model sprints from 0-62mph in just 4.9 seconds on its way to an electronically governed top speed of 155mph. Switchable flaps in its exhaust system can be controlled via the standard Audi drive select driving dynamics system to underscore the sonorous sound.
In the TT Roadster the high-tech petrol unit is initially combined with either front-wheel-drive and a six-speed manual gearbox or quattro all-wheel-drive and a six-speed S tronic twin-clutch transmission. The TTS Roadster, with standard quattro drive, also features a manual gearbox or the option of S tronic.
The third TT generation is the first to network permanent all-wheel-drive with the Audi drive select driving dynamics system, which in the UK is standard across the range. The driver can use this to influence engine characteristics and the operation of the steering by toggling between Comfort, Auto, Dynamic, Efficiency and Individual modes. Audi drive select can also be used to alter the operating parameters of a number of optional systems including the S tronic transmission and Audi magnetic ride (fitted as standard on the TTS Roadster).
Two specification levels – Sport and S line – will initially be offered in the UK for the TT Roadster. Both include the Audi virtual cockpit, which is based around a 12.3-inch, high resolution LCD display that completely fills the driver’s instrument binnacle and replaces the traditional analogue dials. Its brilliantly sharp images are courtesy of a powerful Tegra 30 graphics processor from Nvidia’s Tegra 3 series.
The TT Roadster S line upgrades to larger 19-inch alloy wheels with a five-arm star design, all-weather LED headlights and LED tail lights flanked by dynamic rear indicators with a directional sweeping function and S line body styling. It also offers particularly committed drivers the no cost option to swap to tauter S line sports suspension bringing a further 10mm reduction in ride height.
| Version | Power | Transmissions | CO2 g/km |
ROTR |
| 2.0 TFSI Sport | 230PS | 6-speed manual | 140 | £32,045 |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro Sport | 230PS | 6-speed S tronic | 154 | £35,005 |
| 2.0 TDI ultra Sport | 184PS | 6-speed manual | 114 | £31,955 |
| Power | Transmissions | CO2 g/km |
ROTR | |
| 2.0 TFSI S line | 230PS | 6-speed manual | 140 | £34,595 |
| 2.0 TFSI quattro S line | 230PS | 6-speed S tronic | 154 | £37,555 |
| 2.0 TDI ultra S line | 184PS | 6-speed manual | 114 | £34,505 |
February 2015
TTS quattro Roadster announced
310PS, 380Nm, 0-62mph in 4.7 seconds, top speed 155mph limited.
November 2016
TT Black Edition launched
The Black Edition formula is applied for TT and TTS Coupe and Roadster models, with 19-inch five-spoke Blade design alloy wheels and Bang & Olufsen audio form part of the package, as does an additional powered wind deflector for the Roadster.
January 2017
Quattro TDI versions TT Roadster introduced
A six-speed S tronic twin-wet-clutch transmission (not the new 7-speed) is used with the 2.0 TDI engine, and appropriate distribution of the 184PS and 380Nm of torque that it channels to both axles is handled by an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch at the heart of the quattro system.
Sprint times reflect the traction advantages, with zero to 62mph in the Coupé 6.7 seconds compared to 7.1 seconds for the 2WD TDI ultra, while top speed is a creditable 145mph. In the Roadster, 62mph takes 7.0 seconds, three tenths quicker than the 2WD ultra, with a 142mph top speed.
NEDC combined fuel consumption is 52.3mpg, corresponding to CO2 of 142g/km. As a Roadster, the TT 2.0 TDI quattro S tronic returns up to 50.4mpg, with 147g/km of CO2.
|
Model |
Specification |
Engine |
PS |
CO2 |
OTR pricing |
|
TT Coupé |
Sport |
2.0 TDI quattro |
184 |
142 |
£34,230 |
|
TT Coupé |
S line |
2.0 TDI quattro |
184 |
142 |
£36,780 |
|
TT Coupé |
Black Edition |
2.0 TDI quattro |
184 |
142 |
£38,380 |
|
TT Roadster |
Sport |
2.0 TDI quattro |
184 |
147 |
£35,845 |
|
TT Roadster |
S line |
2.0 TDI quattro |
184 |
147 |
£38,395 |
|
TT Roadster |
Black Edition |
2.0 TDI quattro |
184 |
147 |
£39,995
|
September 2018
Audi TT 1.8 180PS no longer being manufactured due to WLTP.
What to watch out for
Report of severe leak into new TT Roadster, creating a pool 2" deep behind the driver and passenger seats, filling the battery compartment and destroying the Audi Connect management system. Car was repaired and dried out, Connect system replaced, new seals installed to doors, then, on return to the buyer, it filled up with rainwater again. Audi Grimsby supplied the car and, according to the buyer, have been unco-operative, only allowing the buyer to speak to service staff.
10-01-2016:Another report of severe water leak into roof space at rear of passenger compartment and battery tray, this time in a July 2015 TT Roadster. Dealer diagnosed blocked drain tubes, unblocked them and prescribed new drains, together with replacement of carpets.
28-01-2016:Audi replaced the first TT roadster with the leak problem (1-12-2015), but exactly the same thing happened with the replacement.
28-07-2016:Further report of MMI sound interface stopping working due to water ingress as a result of blocked drain tubes leading to flooding by rainwater from the roof. Owner faced with £2,000 bill reduced to £150 if he accepted the rectification as a repair. Seems the roof needs to be in a state of transition (half-up) in order to access the compartment to clear debris from the drains, but it doesn't state this in the owner's manual.
09-10-2018:Report of supplying Audi dealer and AUdi UK Customer Services turning down a warranty claim for cracks in the top of the plastic side trims of seats of 2015 Audi TT Roadster S-Line 230HP DSG. Attributed to inflicted damage and not covered by warranty despite 3 of the 4 trims cracked in the same place and similar cases referenced on Audi TT user forum. Case referred to The Motor Ombudsman for consideration.
16-07-2019:Report of water trapped in convertible roof drain channels of 14,000 mile 2016 Audi TT S-Line TFSI roadster. Owner heard what sounded like the slushing of water over her nearside shoulder at the rear of the car. Discovered that passenger side footwell was extremely wet. Diagnoses was water trapped down drain channels and under/in carpet. Roof drains at rear were found to be blocked by some seeds. Told not covered by warranty. Could be facing bill of £3,000 for water damage. Eventual bill was £964 for stripping car and putting it back together again.
14-12-2019:Report of a water leak, this time into a 2016 Audi TT Roadster purchased used in July 2019 as an "Approved Used Audi". When purchased, the summer weather was dry and the car was garaged so did not go out in the rain much, but eventually it was left in the rain for a few hours. Owner heard a sloshing sound traced to water slopping about in the amplifier. Owner asked by the dealer to pay for a new amplifier at £1,500. Possible case here for a Small Claim against the supplying dealer.
13-01-2020:Problems reported with Audi TT Roadster since purchased new in May 2019. "Before I left the forecourt, it was clear there was a fault with the electronics. I was asked to leave the vehicle with them. 2 weeks later the vehicle was returned and I was told that the Bluetooth issue had been fixed and also “an issue they found with the roof mechanism” but all was now well. It was not. A continued intermittent erratic fault with the electronic system means that the Satnav cannot be relied upon. The altimeter frequently suggests that I am about 5000 feet above sea level and then dips and rises alarmingly, at will. On occasion the navigation screen “dances” and swirls around. Meanwhile, the vehicle has spent a total of 12 weeks in the garage on 3 further occasions. The aerial, the control system and the coaxial cable have apparently all been replaced. The faults remain with the additional aggravating feature that since I last collected my car in November, the Bluetooth has stopped working again."
