The coolest things about the 2016 Audi TT is the instrument panel.
I know that's a strange thing to say, considering the new TT has been completely redesigned and can be ordered with a choice of two turbocharged engines, a six-speed S tronic transmission, and Audi's awesome quattro all-wheel-drive system.
But the instrument panel can be configured to completely fill up with a Google Map-style navigation system placing a large version of the most advanced directional system directly in front of the driver, with the gauges reduced to smaller versions of themselves on the outer edges. Despite the wow factor, the screen is actually less distracting than those on the top or in the center of the dash. Everyone's already used glancing at speedometers and tachometers behind steering wheels while driving down the road. Reading maps there is just as intuitive.
But that's not to diminish the other reasons to like the redesigned TT. The exterior with its long hood and stubby rear end is even more distinctive than before, thanks to its larger grill and integrated front spoiler. The interior is more refined than ever, not only the adjustable instrument panel, but the dash that now features an array of big air conditioning vents with integrated manual controls. The rear seats are still small, but the TT has never pretended to be anything but 2+2. But the cargo space under the rear hatch is larger than before.
More big news two more powerful engines, a 2.0-liter inline four that produces 220 horsepower and another that produces 310 horsepower in the TTS version. Both are bolted to a version of Audi's sophisticated automated manual transmission, which includes both a shift lever manual mode and steering wheel mounted paddle shifts. And the all-wheel-drive system is available with both engines.
Now in its third generation, the improvements allow the TT to be taken more seriously against true sports cars, like the BMW Z4 and the Porsche Boxster. But the suspension is supple enough it can also be comfortably on a daily basis fear of broken pavement and speed bumps.
The TT design was groundbreaker when Audi first introduced it in 1995. Some manufactures have encroached on its territory since then, especially Nissan which introduced the similar looking 350Z and has continued the teardrop shape into the current 370Z. Audi has wisely concluded that the best way to remain competitive is with both style and substance, and has produced the best TT ever for 2016.
2016 Audi TT
Base price: $42,900
Price as tested: $50,600
Type: Compact sport coupe
Engines: Turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4 (220 hp, 258 lbs-ft - as tested); turbocharged 2.0-liter inline 4 (310 hp)
Transmission: 6-speed S tronic automated manual transmission
EPA estimated mileage: 23/30 - as tested
Overall length: 164.7 inches
Curb weight: 3,186 pounds
Final assembly: Gyor, Hungary