19 February 2007 14:58 GMT / By Jonathan Goddard
The car that almost single-handedly spearheaded the resurrection of the two-seater sports convertible returns to UK roads this month with the arrival of the new Audi TT Roadster.Concealing somewhat radical new advances in construction and suspension technology beneath a subtle yet sexy reworking of the classic TT lines, the new no-lid-on-the-block is now available to order with prices starting from just under £27,000. Like its coupé counterpart, the new TT Roadster has a hybrid Audi Space Frame (ASF) body shell. Blending 58% aluminium and 42% steel, weight is minimised while increasing structural rigidity, meaning a whole load of power and traction is available on both the 2.0 FSI turbo and 3.2 V6 launch models.
The new TT Roadster retains a cloth hood which is electro-hydraulically powered in both versions, rather than opting for the increasingly popular folding metal roof design. A powered mesh wind deflector is also fitted as standard to UK TT Roadster models to streamline airflow through the cabin and lessen buffeting.
You also get magnetic damping for the suspension, 17in or 18in alloys as standard depending on the model (19in is an option, tiger), part or full leather sports seats, electronic climate control, a new generation MP3-compatible audio system with single CD player, a race-style flat-bottomed steering wheel and electronic menu control system.
Expect any remaining city-boy bonuses to be invested in Audi real soon.
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