The 3.2-litre V6 engine is carried over to the new model from the previous TT, but provides faster pace thanks to the new model’s lightweight aluminium body. It means the 250bhp 3.2 quattro will sprint from 0-62mph in 6.1 seconds (the automatic is quicker at 5.9 seconds). The 2.0 TFSI model has 200bhp and unlike the V6 is front-wheel drive, however it’s by far the better engine choice thanks to a punchy and urgent nature that suits the TT better.

It isn’t as quick in the 0-62mph dash, taking 6.7 seconds (6.5 for the automatic) but in everyday driving feels more responsive. Mid 2008 saw the introduction of the TTS – a high performance version fitted with a 272bhp 2.0-litre turbocharged engine. It betters the already impressive performance figures with 60mph achievable in 5.6 seconds and a top speed of 155mph.

In May 2008 a TDI version was launched powered by a 170bhp common-rail diesel engine. This has a 0-62mph time of 7.7 seconds while returning 51mpg, making it by far the most cost effective TT in the line-up. However, the most affordable model is the 1.8 TFSI version, introduced in April 2009. It may only have 160bhp but it smooth and willing with impressive in-gear acceleration, especially at higher revs.

0-62mph takes 7.4 seconds and although it doesn’t sound as good as the 2.0 TFSI model, it’s enjoyable to drive nonetheless. Fuel economy of 41mpg is impressive too. All engines come with a six-speed manual transmission as standard, while a ‘short-shift’ manual gearchange is offered as an option (standard on the TTS). The automatic version offered is called S-tronic, and uses a double clutch system for rapid and smooth gearchanges – this is the same six-speed DSG system offered on the previous TT.

It’s available with all engines except the TDI and 1.8 TFSI.

Whichever engine you choose, the TT always feels nimble. The 3.2 V6 offers the extra traction of the quattro four-wheel drive system (as does the TDI), but the 2.0 TFSI and 1.8 TFSI feel more nimble and agile, especially on tight twisting roads. The larger engine will find plenty of fans though thanks to the wonderful metallic howl of the engine – the rasp of the 2.0 TFSI seems tame in comparison and the 1.8 TFSI is quite muted.

The more powerful TTS benefits from four exhaust tailpipes – and a more sporty sound as a result, along with tweaked suspension, steering and brakes. Consequently it’s easily the most focussed TT in the line-up (apart from the TT RS which is reviewed separately) and huge fun to drive with great poise through corners and almost zero body roll. But whichever version you choose the TT always feels surefooted with huge amounts of grip, inspiring plenty of confidence.

There’s an optional system called ‘magnetic ride’, which allows the driver to change the suspensions setting including a sport mode that tightens the ride further for demanding roads.