IF YOU love the less-is-more minimalist modern design theme then the new Audi TT 150 will win a place in your heart.
Already a style icon in its quattro 180 and 225bhp versions, the roadster 150bhp two-wheel-drive version is about to win still more admirers.
The fact it is almost £5,000 cheaper than the 180 Roadster is a powerful attraction, but the fact is that the new entry level model actually felt more agile and sounded more composed.
The reality is that the engine gives more than enough power to turn in a very respectable and easy flowing performance, and it comfortably returns consumption in the mid-30s.
Whether you are easing through heavy town traffic or enjoying more open roads, the Audi 150 exudes refinement and poise.
On dry roads it does not have the ultimate grip of the quattro, but its handling is entirely predictable and safe, with a natural tendency to run wide on tight turns.
It can be slipped into the smallest parking places as accurately as it can be placed on the road in sweeping bends, but you have to watch out for big blind-spots if the hood is up and you are reversing or pulling out into traffic.
The powered hood can be quickly dropped under a solid cover where the back seats would be in the Coupe, and that leaves a reasonable boot. Oddments provision is tight but acceptable. Room inside is good for two, with a reasonable amount of legroom and shoulder space.
All the controls are immediately to hand, and the simple instruments are clear, while the climate control is effective.
All noise levels are low, even with the hood stowed, and the lack of vibration is a particularly noteworthy feature for a convertible.
Visually indistinguishable from its quattro stablemates, the new Audi TT 150 does not have the ultimate grip and roadholding of them, but how many drivers actually explore the limits of their cars or, in fact, need four-wheel-drive?
The TT 150 really lacks nothing in terms of everyday driving delight, but it will save an owner a lot of money up-front in insurance premiums, and tax costs if the car is a company vehicle.
FAST FACTS
Audi TT Roadster 1.8T 150
Price: £21,450
Mechanical: 150bhp 1.8T petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 133mph
0-62mph: 8.9 seconds
Combined mpg: 34mpg
Insurance group: 17
CO2 emissions: 197gkm
BiK rating: 23%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles; 12yrs anti-rust; 3yrs paint