Audi TT Coupe review

The first thing that strikes you is how simple the TT’s dashboard is; there's just a handful of clearly labelled buttons set neatly into the fascia. This minimalist approach is helped by the absence of any central infotainment screen.

Instead, a 12.3in digital instrument panel behind the steering wheel shows everything from the sat nav maps to your music collection, while also replacing traditional analogue dials for speed, engine revs and other driving essentials, with digital equivalents. Audi calls this fully-configurable display a ‘Virtual Cockpit’.

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Drivers of most shapes and sizes will be able to get comfortable thanks to plenty of adjustment to the steering wheel and seat. The front seats on entry-level Sport trim models are supportive enough, but go for S line trim or about and you'll get even more figure-hugging Super Sport seats.

The TT’s sleek styling and high waistline restrict your view out a bit, but visibility isn’t too bad by coupé standards – especially out of the front.

Pulling out of junctions requires a bit of neck craning, though, and, while you get rear parking sensors as standard, front sensors and a reversing camera are part of the pricey Comfort and Sound pack on all but top-rung Vorsprung trim models.

The fact that the infotainment screen is directly behind the steering wheel is good news in theory; you don’t have to divert your eyes far from the road to see it. However, it does make for a rather isolating drive as the passenger can’t help out with the sat nav or manage the music.

This setup does take a little getting used to because its menus are condensed to fit into the restricted screen space. However, the interface (a rotary controller that's positioned between the front seats) is much less distracting to use when you're driving than a touchscreen would be.

DAB radio and a USB socket come as standard, but, disappointingly, sat nav costs extra (it's part of the relatively pricey Technology Pack) on all but range-topping Vorsprung trim and the TT S. It's also disappointing that only these two versions have Apple Carplay and Android Auto smartphone mirroring – and that you can't add it to cheaper trims.

The TT’s interior really is something to behold, with solid feeling, high-quality materials throughout. Even the buttons and switches all feel reassuringly weighty, operating with the precision of a Swiss watch.

In fact, the interior is so smart that it shames those of far more expensive sports cars; even the Porsche 911 doesn’t look or feel significantly more special inside.