The 2012 Audi TTS Roadster is the convertible variant of the TT line, which has always had a love-hate relationship with car enthusiasts. It provides great performance, responsive handling and an injection of luxury that Audi gives to every car before it leaves the factory. The Audi TTS is powered by a 2.0- liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which turns out 265 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. This fantastic engine moves the convertible from zero to 60 mph in an impressive 5.1 seconds, which is respectable for a convertible. The top speed is electronically limited to 155mph. Despite its impressive acceleration, it still manages to return frugal gas mileage at 23 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway. Handling is stupendously fun; the vehicle corners like a dream, yet it is not too stiff to where you don't want to make it your everyday vehicle. Quattro all-wheel drive does its job while the electronic stability control is not overbearing. The dual clutch S tronic transmission shifts quickly and smoothly; beware, though, as there is no manual gearbox option.
The interior is surprisingly spacious for a small sporty car, and the fact that it offers hatchback styling provides a little more cargo space than what you would expect when you look at it. The front seats are comfortable and provide plenty of lateral support, and the foot wells are deep enough that even taller people will be able to fit, without feeling squished. The rear seat is very uncomfortable and is better suited for holding a jacket or briefcase than it is seating an adult. It is quite surprising that this vehicle is even listed as a four-seater. The navigation system, though revised, has a gloss black finish, which stands out in the leather/alcantara interior, but not in a good way. The Audi TTS includes a variety of safety equipment, including six standard air bags for head, thorax, knees, side and front, electronic stability control, a "smart" braking system, and an ultra-light but super strong aluminum/steel frame. No crash testing has been done, but the TTS should perform admirably, as all Audi models do.
The 2012 Audi TTS roadster is everything a convertible buyer could want. An acceptable level of luxury along with the surprising excitement that the handling provides, pairs up with a respectable amount of power and a reasonable price to make the TTS a top pick in the luxury sports convertible market.