Audi TT roadster (2006): first official pictures

By Phil McNamara

First Official Pictures

18 October 2006 11:03

New Audi TT roadster: the lowdown

Here it is – the drop-top version of Audi's new TT. Bigger yet lighter, stiffer and faster, UK customers can order the roadster from November, with deliveries following in spring 2007. Prices start at £26,915 for the 2.0-litre turbo version, with the other launch model – running the 3.2-litre V6 – costing £31,535.

Audi hasn't been bitten by the folding tin-top bug. The roadster retains a fully insulated fabric roof with heated glass screen. On UK launch cars, the hood is power-operated. It folds in 12sec, and drivers can operate it at speeds of up to 30mph. A standard wind deflector can be deployed at the push of a button. Available in black and grey, the roof stows more compactly than its predecessor. Some 250 litres of luggage can be swallowed, with the roof down. Thanks to its fabric roof and 58 percent aluminium construction, the fourpot TT roadster is 30kg lighter than the Mk1. It's twice as stiff, however, which should sharpen handling and boost refinement. Audi has strengthened the A-pillars and added twin rollover hoops, to boost safety.

By Phil McNamara