Audi TT

Nor is it the slight shrinkage in the dimensions, even though that comes as a surprise in an era of increasing bulk.

It's not even the greater efficiency of the engines, the better fuel economy figures or the shedding of some 50kg bodyweight.

And it's not even the fact that you can now buy a TT that utilises LED lighting for both front and rear lights and the interior lighting (which can be adjusted simply by wafting a finger over the bulbs).

No, this third generation of what was a game-changing car for the German premium brand, has another ace up its sleeve to get tongues wagging and wallets open.

It is debuting what Audi terms the virtual cockpit – a large display screen behind the steering wheel where the instruments would normally be. The virtual cockpit means an uncluttered dashboard, and there’s plenty of clever thinking here.

The 12.3-inch LCD screen provides superb viewing in brilliant clarity, and you can switch views between a classic view (prominent speedometer and rev counter) and infotainment view (navigation map or media to the fore).

The cynical among you might now be thinking that Audi will charge a hefty sum for an optional virtual cockpit, but it actually comes as a standard fit across the range. One day, I suspect all Audis will have virtual cockpits. And other manufacturers will no doubt follow suit.

In another first, the TT's air vents now house the controls for the air conditioning, resulting in an uncluttered feel to the cockpit.

Like the second-generation car, this TT uses a mix of aluminium and high-strength steels to keep the weight down.

You’d be forgiven for thinking that the TT is barely changed, but park one next to the old car and the differences become clearer. It’s broader in the shoulder and more edgy than before, particularly at the front where there’s a mean six-sided grille and vertical LEDs in the headlights to match the R15 Le Mans racer. The unique curved roof stays, and hotter TTs models get a more distinctive nose.

Front seat passengers have good space for head and legs and the boot is 13 litres larger than before, but the rear seats remain the domain of children unless your adults friends(or the driver with seat forward) are very short in stature.

There’s three engines to choose from; 2.0-litre TFSI in 230PS and 310PS forms (TTS), plus the 184PS 2.0-litre TDI Ultra.

The diesel offering, which will account for half of sales, handles beautifully, and delivers 67.3mpg average fuel economy. But it can best be described as a sporty car rather than the out-and-out sports car, which the more urgent petrol versions can claim to be.

The lower-powered petrol version will hit 62mph in 6.0 seconds, half a second quicker if you go for Quattro four-wheel-drive and the S tronic gearbox, yet it can also manage 39.2mpg combined. There’s a pleasing gruffness to the exhaust note when you rev it out yet it is quiet and refined when cruising.

With standard suspension the TT fractionally prioritises comfort over ultimate handling but for everyday use it’s judge very well; it handles neatly, with strong grip and a sense of security while doing a fine job of soaking up bumps.

All versions get the the touchpad MMI control system to operate the virtual cockpit, keyless go and the Audi Drive Select system. There’s leather and Alcantara sports seats, 18-inch alloy wheels and LED daytime running lights as standard too.

If you loved the previous TTs then this one will be right up your street. It’s sharp enough and sufficiently good fun to keep the majority of drivers very happy.

Ordering started in August and first deliveries will arrive in December. TTS ordering opens this month for March delivery. Join the queue.
 

Audi TT (from £29,770)

Engines: 2.0-litre TFSI petrol, producing 230PS or 310PS (TTS); 184PS 2.0-litre TDI

Transmission: Six-speed manual or S-tronic quattro

Performance: 230PS petrol: 0-62mph in 5.3 secs (S tronic); TDI: 0-62mph in 7.1 secs

Economy: 230PS petrol, 47.9mpg combined; diesel 67.3mpg

CO2: 137g (petrol); 110g (diesel)