Save for the fact that the rev counter has fewer numbers around its dial than usual, there are no indications from the TT TDI’s interior that it’s the variant with the diesel engine. The rest of the trim is entirely unchanged over the regular TT.
That’s no bad thing, either. This generation TT’s cabin is very well finished and feels extremely well assembled, while most controls have a pleasing weight and precision.
The driving position is sound: low-set with a steering wheel that has plenty of adjustment and a well spaced pedal layout.
There’s plenty of space in the front – even six-footers should find it comfortable – but the two rear seats are definitely for kids or short journeys only. We think the majority of owners will find they’re at their most useful for storing luggage.
The rear seat backs can be folded down; you’re then left with a long, deep boot that can hold up to 700 litres of luggage. Even with the seats in place, Audi claims two sets of golf clubs will fit in a boot that is less spacious than that of a 1-series coupé, but has a more usable shape and better access.
As with every other TT, the diesel is a pretty sensible place to put your own cash. After three years it should still be worth over 50 per cent of what it cost new, whereas a similarly priced BMW 123d coupé M Sport will be worth just 42 per cent of its original value three years down the line.
Company car users could also find the TT tempting. With a CO2 rating of just 139g/km, the TT diesel incurs a benefit-in-kind tax liability of just 18 per cent. This means a 40 per cent company car user will pay just £157 a month in tax on it.
Mind you, the more powerful 123d will cost exactly the same. Day-to-day running costs should be very reasonable, too; we managed a best economy figure of 48.1mpg and an overall average of 34.1mpg, which is far from shabby from what is marketed as a sports car, even a diesel-powered one.