The Audi TT has become an iconic fixture in the automotive industry for over two decades. Initially celebrated for its style rather than its sporting prowess, the final editions of this model have marked a significant departure from its original iteration.
Fast forward 25 years, and the design landscape has undergone a substantial evolution. At that time, there were only a few design-centric publications, and the internet was still in its infancy. This was a period when the concept of ‘design’ was limited to a select group of objects that were considered elevated from the ordinary.
Against this backdrop, the Audi TT made a remarkable debut. It swiftly became a symbol of modern design, offering a distinctive, industrial appeal that was accessible to all. The external styling of the TT, led by Freeman Thomas and overseen by design luminaries such as Peter Schreyer and J Mays, made it a standout presence at the 1995 Frankfurt Motor Show. When the production version arrived in 1998, it remained remarkably true to the concept, except for certain elements that proved challenging to mass-produce.
While the TT was celebrated as an object of desire and managed to capture attention despite its lower price point compared to its counterparts, some critics felt that its performance did not measure up to its good looks. Beneath the curvaceous bodywork, the TT shared the mechanical underpinnings of the VW Group’s A4 platform, impacting its driving dynamics. It wasn’t until the release of the 2005 TT quattro sport that the model truly won over enthusiasts.
Throughout the years, the TT has evolved, with subsequent generations adopting a more aggressive approach and emphasizing power and speed. We recently had the opportunity to experience both the Audi TT RS and the TTS Roadster Final Edition, paying tribute to this iconic model that redefined Audi’s image as a design innovator. The modernist purity of the original still shines through, evident in the distinctive exterior and the analogue ambience of the interior.
As the market for small, two-seater cars declined and the challenges of electrifying such a small platform loomed, the inevitable end of the TT drew closer. Nevertheless, the fondness for this German coupe remains, and perhaps technology will eventually provide an opportunity for this icon to make a well-deserved comeback.
The Farewell Audi TT RS Coupe 400PS Iconic Edition S tronic is priced at £87,650, while the Audi TT S Roadster Final Edition comes in at £51,425.
In conclusion, the Audi TT will soon bid farewell after making an indelible mark on the automotive world. Its journey from style-focused beginnings to a more performance-oriented evolution serves as a testament to its enduring legacy.
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