2009 Audi TTS (Mk2) - Worth Buying, Or Should You Just Save For A Porsche? 

One of the most underrated cars imo. Mine is a 2011 TTS s tronic with 439bhp and with it's power to weight the acceleration is incredible

You guys in the UK are lucky with your prices, the cheapest Mk2 TTS I can find in Sweden right now is £13,5k. I’ve been thinking about this before when you mention any car’s value in your videos.

The value you get from this car and a few mods is amazing. I have a manual running 372hp/415ftlbs with 6pots brakes and upgraded suspension. I average 30-32mpg and get 40+ mpg on long runs.

I had a TTS Manual in between a couple of 987.2 Cayman's (still own the Cayman). All manuals. The TTS was 1/3 of the price of the Cayman's for the same equivalent mileage. Honestly. For the price. You cannot beat the TTS. It looks good inside and out, drives good, comfortable and has a tonne of space. You could argue the interior is nicer then the Cayman. Manual gearbox feel on both aren't that special. Steering feels very dead compared to a 987. But overall the TTS is a damn nice place to be and a great all-rounder. And to anyone who isn't a big car enthusiast and just wants something a bit sporty and different. I would definitely recommend one. If the TTS is a 8/10 and the Cayman is a 9/10. Is 3x the price worth 1 point. No probably not. But then again, a Porsche is a Porsche. Edit: I'm in Australia

I had the 2 litre TFSI manual version of this and loved it. Particularly like the steering and the brakes. Single piston caliper says I must be wrong, but that's how I remember it.

The VR6 engine is by far and away my favorite engine for this car. I currently have the VR6 version and have had the 2.0TFSI in my Cupra. Yes the TFSI is quicker, more tuneable etc etc but nothing beats the way the VR6 feels, drives and sounds!

Love my 2011 TTS S-Tronic, has a real Jekyll & Hyde vibe, it’ll pootle along in traffic and it’s quiet and comfortable and refined but a flick of the right foot and it’ll tear your face off. Interior quality is in a different league to the VW/Ford/Vauxhalls of the world, better in fact than BMW. I drive with a friend who has a Mk1 V6 and although the V6 sounds awesome, the TTS is quicker and handles better, turbo lag is there but it really isn’t an issue in terms of performance. The DSG box is excellent but for fast road driving you’ll want to switch to manual and use the paddle shifters for more control, drop under braking, throw it into a corner and power through and it will dig in, stick and throw you out the other side with minimum fuss and maximum grins. Braking could be improved but unless you are regularly doing track days there is no need, on the road it will still pop out a glass eye, as several errant Welsh sheep can attest. Very fast road car, above average build and material quality, and incredible value. Cons are obviously it’s not the most frugal to run, I get up to 27mpg out of premium but on a spirited day out that can easily drop into the high teens, also has a taste for Mobil 1 which is not cheap. Mechanically it’s sound and parts and servicing should not be too scary due to the prevalence of the format. Buy one.

I am just getting one and I am so excited. Reading your comments makes me anticipate its arrival even more!

Great review, surprised to learn this was your first time in a MK2 . I bought a 2012 TTS manual with black leather trim earlier this year. Its nearly all aluminium so no need to worry about rust and its a very practical car. I also have a RSQ3 with white leather interior so the contrast in cabins and the driving experience suits my needs. I agree with JayEmm on the sweeping bend point and feeling the cars handling capability through the seat rather than the steering wheel. It may be me but I like that in a car..

I know that its looks don’t suggest it, but in my mind this is the ultimate hot hatch. If you like driving GTIs and want an upgrade this is the car to get, as it has all the same basic underpinnings with some wonderful upgrades. It also works for people who have a tiny human they occasionally need to throw in the back. I would disagree on your modification comment though, as an ECU tune, swaybars, and a set of solid poly bushings (which won’t squeak due to their design) would come in at less than a couple grand and really bring out all that’s good about this car.

i had a 2009 tts in manual before my 2018 rs3. The gearbox was amazing in the TTS the way it felt changing gear was second to none

One thing l love about he’s reviews straight to the point what Jeremy Clarkson used to do great video keep them comin👏🏽👍🏾👊🏽

Very eloquent and informative

We had the TTS from new when first released. Never in a garage, always lived outside (with lots of polish) in Red. When sold still looked new. It was a very good car. And as you said, practical. We both play golf. I can assure viewers if you do, you can get two large golf bags, two electric trolleys cloths etc if you play away matches. Most couples cannot believe what will go in. Yes, the back seat will need dropping. . . . Yes, we did move over to Porsche. Realistically the 911 never happened because of the lack of practicality. Try getting the golf kit in one. You struggle with one set.

I have a manual TTs black edition at stage 1 at 315 bhp, 0-60 in sub 4.5s. The thing is rapid, can easily keep up with the new Supra GR, M2 etc.. Absolutely love it, brakes are strong and and the handling is responsive. Although I did get a little torque steering pre remap. You get about 200-230 miles a tank if you have a heavy foot. Blowers like to suddenly stop blowing but this is common and an an easy fix. Can pick an older one up now for about 7k. Get one you won't regret it!

Have a 2012 TTS Roadster, it does everything I could ever want. Amazing DSG box, torque all the time, comfy enough for a long trip, and they're rare compared to Porsches of any kind (even here in Southern California included)!

My brother had one same year and colour ages ago and almost made me cry. He had a later model to 67 plate I think that was more capable and a nice place to be.

I'm 99% sure you couldn't order those seats in a TTS. Great review and I've always loved them. Still look fresh enough today 😎👌

I live in the US. I have the 2014 TTS convertible and have stage 2 tuned the engine up to 340HP with the S-Tronic. You don't see many of these cars on the road and I love driving this car, especially with the top down.

Mk2 vr6 is one of my favorite cars I have and it rides well and shifting the 6 speed with the after market exhaust is really a joy 😊

Really inspiring video! Definitely considering one. How is the TTS in terms of reliability? Usually the TSFI engines have not the best reputation.

Im litteraly in love with this car, can't wait to get one❤

I own a TT 3.2 mk2 with TTS exhaust, and for daily driving it's plenty of power. So it looks better, and has way better theater than the original. Only downside if the less than optimal fuel economy, and since it is my daily, I changed the radio to an android system.

it really depends on what you are looking for. I bought the TTS for track purposes because I am about 6'6'' and I fit. Boxster, Z3, MX5 are all too small to fit me unfortunately. On track the car is slightly heavy, but it is cheap and therefore can be replaced in case of any barrier involvements. All the sportier ones usually come at a much higher price, which defeats the purpose of driving it at the limit, if you are scared putting it into the barrier. Slap on some mods on the TTS, brakes, suspensions, seats and you are good to go. TT RS' have more power but less beneficial on weight distribution. I will upgraded probably to something like E36,E46 or 350z in the future, but at the moment its a fun car which should be fast and safe enough to learn track driving. Just my two cents. btw: My car weighs 1400kg with driver and 3/4 tank volume, i dont believe that to be too bad

Have this car for 2 years. Bought new magnetic ride, and refresh the transmition. Still look beatiful even though it 12 years old car

Very nice car. I'd need a more fun colour. Nice video. Keep up the good work.

my dad just got this beauty and it’s mindblowing

We have a 2013 TFSI manual with amplified pack black edition. It's in somoa orange & imo is the perfect TT. Power is plenty on the road & Manual box more engaging.

When i Made my choice it became the VR6 roadster. You are shore you do not have a badly tuned TT. And the sound❤. It is not a Boxter, but good for me and less running cost.

Fantastic styling cues.

My missus had a TDI, from nearly new, great car. a TTS is a cracking car.

I had a 07 convertible auto which I absolutely loved it and would have it still but found it increasingly more difficult to get in and out 😔 at 74 but god I miss it

Just did 200 miles in mine the last two days. It wasn't first choice, but lack of finances pushed me into buying one 12 months ago. I was pleasantly surprised from day one. It's so much better than I expected. The engine in particular. I needed to clean the intake tracts (not an easy job) to help part power response (clogged with carbon after 70K miles) and now its nicely fizzy and responsive (for a turbo). The weight savings from the aluminium body compensates for the lack of on-paper power. The build quality is excellent. I can fit a bike in comfortably after removing the front wheel. A 987 is less practical, would cost three times more to buy, and twice the amount to tax and insure. I really recommend the Mk2 TT. Another good review Jay.

In 2005 I test drove the Porsches and I test drove the Mk1 TT 3.2 Quattro SLine with DSG. At that time, only the TT and the GTI had the DSG gearbox, which was hands down a superior transmission to anything in the Porsche. The TT shifted faster, and smoother. And it handled turns and curves better that the RWD Porsches. But when I opened the hatch on the Porsche, there was about enough storage room to lay a thin briefcase on top of the motor. The TT was actually spacious. I bought the TT and it’s been my daily driver ever since. Still runs like a top and in all those years the only things I have had to repair are a $40 break light switch in 2008, and just recently I replaced the fuel pump and some ignition coils. Other than that, it’s pretty long in the tooth now and needed some cosmetic work, like I put in a new headliner. And repolished the headlights. It’s been the most fun, and lowest cost of ownership car I’ve ever had. And useful. I’ve brought home lumber and 10 foot lengths of galvanized pipe in my TT. 600 lbs loads of plaster, and even moved furniture in it. Guys I know who bought a Porsche ended up spending half the entire original cost of the car just maintaining it.

Always liked these Mk2 TTS cars

Thanks J! 🙏🙏

I bought one of these with the VR6 and a manual transmission, this may be faster with the DSG and the turbo engine; but for me, there's nothing like shifting your gears while listening to that sweet sweet VR6

Ive owned my manual 2013 tts for a couple of years now, 50k miles on the clock, reliable, great fun and surprisingly practicle... bought it during the first covid lockdown when garages were desperate for a sale, only cost me £9k!!!

Great videos! Please can you do a MK3 TTS review!

I'm an owner! Will enjoy watching!

Used to own a Cayman 987.1S and now own a '20 TTS from new. While the former is more of a thoroughbred Sports Car, the latter is quicker, more practical and economical. A perfect daily.

My TTS is a tuned track car, with many mods I was able to install myself. Lot's of fun as a project car and it's a beast on a track, on par with 3+ liter cars for half the price. Standard setup is kind of sporty but not sustainable for a track car.

I've got arguably the predecessor to this, the Mk2 3.2. Lovely smooth linear power and the vr6 makes a lovely noise when you push on a bit . Never going to rival the Porsche for dynamics but as an everyday car it works well.

On my second TT. 2012 TTRS... its worth spending the extra to get the RS. The MKII TT is a way better overall car than a Caymen. Golf clubs fit in the boot😁

This was the closest we ever got to a 21st century Scirocco in the US. I'm a JDM guy myself, but i'd be lying if I said I didn't want an i5 or VR6 TT

Was considering a TTs when I bought my 987 Cayman, the 2+2 format of the TTs was really appealing for avoiding the family car when running the weeuns about. However driving them back to back they were a world apart, the steering feel of the 987 is just leagues ahead and the NA flat 6 soundtrack just felt far more special. That being said, if it was my only car then I reckon the TT might have won out. Being able to carry extra people if you need to pick up your drunk partner and friends over a short journey comes in handy!

I was literally browsing these a couple of hours ago, considering the VR6.

I have this same car and I love everything about it. It has over 200,000km and is my daily driver. It hauls hard and I don't not baby it. I love the drive options and the paddle shifting. It's quick, too quick for road but that's why we love them.

Sports car, no. I almost purchased a Gen2 TTS, but it just didn't have the feel I was looking for... I ended up purchasing a Mercedes C63 and love every second in it.

You guys are lucky in the UK with these prices

I've got MK2 quattro 2-0 diesel,it's awesome cheap to own with cheap insurance and great on the economy milage, especially as it's a 0-60 in 7.2 seconds,closest Ile ever get to owning an r8 lol

I had a 2022 TTS briefly, and realized it wasn’t a TTRS. I traded the TTS in for a 2021 TTRS. After and ECU and transmission tune, and intake this car has enough power to get in trouble. The car is a toy. A fast one at that.

Personally, I feel the TT Mk2 interior is a step above 987 Porsche, I've owned both and cant help but be impressed everytime I jump in the TT for interior feel / look

Loved the MK2 TT though my personal issue with it, is that its axel load isnt too great. it sits at about 1450KG with a Max axel Load of 1850KG. That kerb weight doesnt include fuel. So with a full tank, and a heavier set driver and a mate, you will struggle to get your shopping home without fearing potholes, speed bumps and any change in the road. pure anxiety.

id of considered the Quattro Sport 140 the mk1 TTRS and the 225 bam engine the TTS :) Thanks for these as ive been weighing up either a TTS or scirocco daily driver!

I have the 6 speed manual I bought it 7 years ago with 15K on the clock. Currently on 56K. It’s a Quattro TDI and she’s lovely.

With the right exhaust, the 5cyl sounds like the V10.

Bought my car based on this review. Its just a cooking version, but tuning potential is huge. You can get from 200 to 270bhp with an intake, downpipe and a map. Thankyou.

these are becoming rare, expecially with manual. I like it

great car but I would honestly go for a 370z, honestly a phenomenal car and couldn’t recommend it enough.

I’ve had a few from the mark 1 /2. I drove the RSTT it is by far the best. The ( latest one )…

Looking to get one, I’m coming from a fiesta Zetec S here so the power difference will be a lot. Just curious this would be fast enough to keep up with most cars likes s3s,m140i with a map

Hello! Thanks! What about the mk3 tts?

In the UK the car prices are really low then. In The Netherlands you can't pickup a TTS for 7k or 8k. They are way more expensive here

Very good review James. Would love to see what you think of the RCZ R as a competitor to the TTS

Really torn between this or buying a mk5 golf r32 and save to get it turbo charged or supercharged. Think this might be more sensible but the other option could be very fun

Thought about it..... bought a 987 instead. TTS looks good. Probably a good choice for someone who quite likes cars, but couldn't tell the difference between good handling and great handling. But if you're a died in the wool petrolhead with 99 octane unleaded running through your veins, then Porsche, Lotus, Megane, M3.

I've been eyeing these up for a while. I can't afford to run one, but they're so tempting I'd almost consider selling my 308 to afford one of these! The pain in the arse being I need a car to fit a drum kit in...

Jay you forgot the 3.2 version of the mk2. It was an official sports model. It is classed as an "R" and shares the R32 platform but has forged parts. It has the specifications that Porsche originally designed the engine to have.

Ticks a lot of boxes for not a lot of monies. Very good.

TT is a great all rounder with lower running costs. Quattro system makes it a better daily driver imho

I'm a both RS _and_ TT man, myself. :)

Get an SLK R172 350 (2011-16) - a car that's an order of magnitude better for not much more. I was a longtime admirer of TTs. Then I realized I could get a rising classic, one of the last best hard-top convertibles - for not much more. It's a chocolate box of a car.

i love your shirt

As a man, I love me a good set of TT's. My wife has great TT's. Never owned an Audi yet tho... 😏

I have owned quite a lot of Audis but none recently has the steering improved, there was never any feedback

I had a s3 with the same engine, easily got 35mpg on a run

Please do the TT RS 8j!

I’d go for a 350z, proper sports car. NA, v6, rear drive, manual, more unique. Modern classic imo.

My Mrs does 30 miles a day in her TTS it’s a fantastic car

had a tts for about 5 years, haldex pump went twice in that time. you cant fully disengage all the esr / stability and as such are corrected mid slide, have to use handbrake if you want to get sideways but will again tidy it up very quickly. nice to look at, nice interior standard equipment a bit thin on the ground. Wish id got a cayman s for 5 more k at the time! standard clutches dont like remaps !

I'm an RS _and_ TT man, myself.

Had the Mk3 TTs and it was great fun. Even took it on a track! The main thing I felt that let it down was the engine. Great power for the track but that 4 cylinder is just so boring! So I bought an RS6 instead.

Try the mkII TTRS instead. Much more special.

We had one of these along with a MK1 TT2225 as well as a Porsche Boxster S, 718 Spyder etc. etc. I'm spoiled...................

The best value sports car on the market. Love these cars and have an 08 version myself. It would be great if you could review the best and most modified version of this car owned by a TT UK Forum member Barrend who tracks his car as well and is the best example of this mark.

Im thinking to buy a mk2 tts or a 330d f30 i know they are totally different but which one you think its better?

Calling Bilstein B12 decent is rather underrating them. It's the best you can buy off the shelf in it's class. Worldwide.

1:30 i read that the mk2 TT was based on the Audi A5 platform.

Early models until 2010 I guess had this airbag/horn steering wheel plastic cover wearing.. we can see that on this one too.. very annoying.. cayman/boxter more engaging maybe but for winter conditions Quattro will save you and make you enjoy your ride better

Currently own a MK3 TTS and can't decide if I like it or not. In London, on broken-down roads it's unbearable, steering feels lifeless. Windows are sticking in the winter, can't open the boot when it's raining or the water will end up inside. However, just got back from Snowdonia. I had a blast with it there and didn't end up in a ditch thanks to AWD. Think I will keep it for another year

Yes, it's a sports car that's best in fast sweepers.

Owned one, excellent car, but it just felt like something was missing, almost like it was missing a soul.

My tt is needs a lot of work but won’t sell because they don’t make cars like this anymore 😊

renault sport or honda civic type r? from the ones I looked for they are heavier (50-100kgs more) having slightly less power, this car has better weight power ratio (at least the manual one). Apart from the boxster, jaguar, lotus or 370z I don't think the rest of the models mentioned are better in general IMO and more versatile than any other, what do you think?

I have a 06 350z with mods would you recommend 08 tt

I’m on my 2nd MK2 TTS… the first was a stepping to a 981 Cayman S. It wasn’t the most inspiring car as a drivers proposition. Fast and a nice place to be though hardly involving or exciting to drive. With that being said I knew what I was getting. A good all rounder, the hatch and rear seats offer decent flexibility. It went and in came a 981 Cayman S and an old Golf GTD for daily duties. The 981 being a proper mid engined sports car was just in another league, flat 6 drama and great handling. This year they both went and in came another TTS, daily, and a GT4 for sunny days and high days. The TTS now makes sense to me because I don’t wish it to be something it just can’t be. As Jay says it’s a sporty car, not a sports car… more GT. Relatively cheap to run too.

Is it worth paying a bit more for the 2011 facelift?

I've never actually seen the view from inside, those side windows looks bizarre without a b pillar

My mate used to have one of these to loved taking it out when my car was fucked 😂