There are two turbo petrol engines: a 197bhp 2.0-litre, and a hot 270bhp TTS version of the 2.0. For even more get-up-and-go, there’s also a non-turbo 247bhp 3.2-litre V6. There is also a 168bhp 2.0 diesel option. It’s strong, smooth, revs freely and delivers brisk performance, yet it'll still return over 50mpg. All engines use six-speed manual gearboxes, and all are available with an excellent six-speed, S tronic semi-automatic direct-shift gearbox, which performs like an automatic.

Turn-in is crisp thanks to bullish grip and sharp steering. The ride is also pretty good if you avoid larger alloys, but patchwork roads can make the steering wheel shudder in your hands. The lower-powered 2.0-litre petrol model is available with either front- or four-wheel-drive – we prefer the former, which feels more alert and more fun. The other versions all get four-wheel-drive as standard.

Tall drivers have to sit low to avoid having their hair blown about and the fabric roof lets in wind noise on the motorway. Still, the turbocharged petrol cars have a throaty exhaust note, and the V6 emits a mechanical growl. The diesel is extremely smooth, and quiet enough to make you wonder if it really is a diesel.

Audi dealers are prepared to offer decent discounts, but the TT still holds its value brilliantly. This also makes it a relatively cheap contract hire proposition, given its list price. Running costs are reasonable, with the 2.0-litre diesel car returning supermini-like fuel economy, but if you make the most of the performance of the bigger-engined versions, you’ll run up hefty bills for fuel and tyres.

The TT's cabin feels really special, with impeccable build quality and materials, and terrific attention to detail. Audi’s reliability record needs to improve, though, because it consistently scores poorly in our surveys.

The TT gets a good amount of safety kit, including electronic stability control and front and side airbags, but we would have liked curtain airbags to be standard as well. Your car should be well defended from thieves, too, with an engine immobiliser and alarm both provided as standard.

The flat-bottomed sports steering wheel looks great, and all the controls work efficiently. The driving position is also excellent, thanks to full adjustment for the seat and wheel. However, side and rear visibility isn’t good with the roof up.

The cabin has plenty of space for two, but the TT roadster doesn’t get the coupe’s small rear seats. The boot has a narrow opening and is quite shallow, although at least you can squeeze in the same amount of luggage whether the roof is up or down.

The TT's sharp styling is enhanced by alloy wheels, and standard luxuries include climate control, remote central locking and Alcantara and leather upholstery. You'll also find electric windows and mirrors, and folding rear seats to extend the boot space. S line versions add lowered sports suspension and a whole array of aesthetic goodies.