Audi TT Mk3 Review (2014-2023)

What is the Audi TT?

Audi’s TT has long been one of the top options for buyers wanting a stylish, practical and pleasing sports car – and this, the third-generation TT, is no exception to that rule.

It was introduced in 2014 and utilised the Volkswagen Group’s then-new MQB platform. Compared to its predecessor, it also benefited from sharper exterior styling, an overhauled and more upmarket interior, new technology and a renewed focus on driving dynamics.

A high-performance TTS model was offered from the outset, while an economical diesel and range-topping TT RS would also later join the range – and, as was the case with the first- and second-generation TTs, a Roadster variant was available for those seeking drop-top fun.

Audi would continue to fettle the TT line-up, updating the car significantly in 2018, and it still remains one of the best options if you’re looking for an accessible sports car that blends some practicality with sensible running costs and an enjoyable ownership proposition.

In 2023 Audi announced that TT production would be ending, and launched a Final Edition trim specification for four-cylinder models as a way to bid it farewell, In addition, Audi produced 100 examples of the TT RS Iconic Edition, which featured numerous aerodynamic and styling upgrades, and a price of nearly £90,000.

How practical is it?

The front seats offer plenty of space, but the rear seats are very small and cramped. They might just about fit a pair of small booster seats into them, but no more than that – you won’t be able to fit adults in behind you unless you’re prepared to shuffle both front seats very far forward – and put up with lots of complaining.

In fact, you might be better off to consider them as extra luggage storage. Speaking of which, the 305-litre boot is a decent size by the standard of small coupes, and its hatchback design means access is easy. What's more, if you fold down those rear seat backs you can treat the TT as a two-seater with a big boot, at which point it makes quite a lot of sense.

What's it like to drive?

The Mk3 Audi TT is not as dull to drive as many make out. Its steering is well weighted and accurate, its brakes powerful and the TFSI petrol engines are smooth and responsive. Many will also appreciate the option of the quattro all-wheel-drive system, which allows the TT to put its power down without fuss in poor conditions. No TT is slow, but the TTS model is particularly quick – while the flagship 2.5-litre TT RS is capable of surprising far more expensive cars.

Admittedly, its numb steering and compliant, safe handling nature – and the lack of a manual transmission option in more recent models – means that the TT doesn’t have the enthusiast appeal of a Porsche 718 Cayman or Boxster, and nor does it have the captivating brawny nature of a Ford Mustang or Nissan 370Z.

The Audi is still a satisfying and quick car to drive, though, and it has other strengths that make it worth keeping on your list. It’s attractively styled, well equipped, comfortable for a sporting coupe and it has a usefully large and easily accessed boot for a car of its type.

The RS model is notably rapid thanks to its 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine. Expect 0-62mph in 3.7 seconds, and very strong pulling power from almost anywhere in the rev range.

Technology, equipment & infotainment

The TT trim range consists of Sport, Sport Edition, S line, Black Edition and Vorsprung. Even the base Sport option is well equipped, pleasingly, and features 18-inch wheels, xenon lights, Audi’s 12.3-inch Virtual Cockpit, cruise control, Bluetooth and air conditioning.

Most of the subsequent trim levels benefit predominantly from cosmetic upgrades, such as larger wheels and bespoke exterior upgrades, but the S line model does feature LED headlights, LED rear lights, dynamic rear lights and sports suspension. The flagship standard TT, the Vorsprung, also benefits from upgrades including Matrix LED headlights, extra safety systems and a Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Mk3 Audi TT running costs

Compared to a regular hatchback, an Audi TT is going to cost a bit more to run – but not as much as you might expect. The entry-level Sport 40 TFSI S tronic model is claimed to average up to 41.5mpg on the more realistic WLTP test cycle, while its CO2 emissions are pegged at a maximum of 155g/km. Consequently, even if you’re using a TT for commuting, the fuel bills shouldn’t prove excessive.

You won’t take much of a hit if you opt for the more powerful 45 TFSI, either, as that’s claimed to average 39.2mpg and emit up to 164g/km of CO2. Quattro-equipped cars are less efficient, however, clocking in at a best of 35.8mpg and 181g/km of CO2. Many of the more powerful models do however cost more than £40,000, which means you’ll pay an extra VED charge of £325 a year for the first five years of ownership – do check this when buying a TT.

The lighter, less complicated front-wheel-drive TTs will prove most efficient in the real world, too, which is worth bearing in mind; most owners report an average mpg figure in the range of 30-40mpg. For quattro models, expect more like 30-35mpg. Their heavier weight and complication also means that you can expect to pay fractionally more in upkeep, in terms of servicing and increased wear on tyre, suspension and braking components. Similarly, the TTS and the powerful five-cylinder TT RS will cost noticeably more to run than standard TTs.

If you’re looking for maximum economy, you could consider an older diesel TT. These benefitted from both high claimed economy figures and low CO2 emissions, with some early Ultra versions dipping into the £20 and £30 annual VED range and benefitting from a claimed average of up to 67.3mpg. Diesel models – in general – can be prone to costly faults, though, which could make a dent in any fuel- and VED-related savings.

To help keep servicing costs manageable, Audi offers service plans for both cars under three years old and for cars aged 3-15 years. These fixed-price schemes – the cost of which can be spread over 24 months – are tailored to each vehicle and you can simply enter the details online to see what the cost is.

Mk3 Audi TT reliability

From new, very TT came with a conventional three-year, 60,000-mile warranty that could be extended to four or five years. A three-year paintwork warranty and 12-year anti-perforation warranty were included as well, along with three years’ roadside assistance.

The standard warranty might not sound exceptional for a premium sports car, but it’s not uncommon in this sector. A more expensive Porsche, for example, will come with a three-year warranty as well – although that is admittedly an unlimited mileage one, as also offered by BMW, which could prove of use to a handful of owners.

Not many problems with third-generation TTs have been reported, although water ingress does seem to blight some.

On the recalls front, there has only been one reported for this era of TT so far – which related to the fitment of a protector to reduce the chance of a fuel tank leak in an accident. Use the government’s recall website to see if your car is affected and check with the seller or dealer to see if it has been attended to.

In any case, especially if you’re looking at older or more complicated quattro examples, go for a car with comprehensive history as it could prove less troublesome in the future. You want to see signs of care and consideration, such as regular oil changes, DSG and Haldex services when required, undamaged wheels and high-quality tyres.