Audi TT MK2
While the first generation of Audi TT cars came to an end, naturally a new one has begun. The first preview was offered in 2005, and on April 2006 Audi revealed their new Mk2 model with the internal designation Typ 8J. It uses aluminum on the front bodypanels while the ones in the rear are made of steel with the purpose of keeping the weight distribution as neutral as possible. When compared to its predecessor, the Audi TT Mk2 is three inches wider and 5 inches longer, and it is also available in front-wheel as well as four-wheel drive as a Coupe as well as a Roadster. Officially, the car started to be produced in August 2006.
The powertrain of the 8J initially only used petrol-based engines which basically consisted of one of two inline four cylinder engines (the 1.8 litre EA888 Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection or the more easily recognizable EA113 2.0 litre Turbocharged Fuel Stratified Injection). The technology used in these engines basically came from another Audi car, Le Mans which is basically an endurance race car, meaning that fuel efficiency is the main concern here.
Over time further developments have occurred when it comes to the engines which are used in more recent models, such as the 3.2 litre VR6 engine, as well as the 2.0 litre model of the EA888 engine, which came into use in 2009.
When it comes to the transmission, the standard is a six-speed manual transmission, with the option to opt for a six-speed direct-shift gearbox on practically every single Audi TT Mk2 model, with the exception of those who are using a 1.8 litre engine. Also, it is worth mentioning that those who have dished out the extra cash to spend on a four-wheel drive system also get to benefit from the ability to use the Haldex Traction clutch, and it is even a standard on V6 models.
The transmission used on the 8J is basically now up to par with the latest models, using a multi-link fully independent rear-suspension and an independent front suspension. Also, there is a very interesting feature included in this model, the Audi Magnetic Ride which is basically a control unit which regulates by itself the damping properties in order to adjust itself to the road conditions, something which can make your life a lot easier during those pesky rains or slushy snow.
While the Audi TT MK2 is basically an improvement over its predecessor in practically every way imaginable, there remains the fact that it also comes at a much higher price. If you have the extra money to spend on a car which looks slicker, drives faster, handles much more comfortably and has much better fuel economy, then without a doubt you should look into the always reliable Audi TT Mk2 models, which at this point have become renowned around the world. If however the cost is too steep for you, then perhaps you should look into some of the previous models since they are still quite better than most cars even today.