IT was a tough challenge when the time came for Audi to replace its original TT coupe and roadster, both of which attained near-icon status. Yes, the engineering could be upgraded with up-to-the-minute developments, but would it be wise to disturb those distinctive looks?
The arguments go on about the new coupe but certainly the designers seem to have got it right with the roadster, judged by the line-up of folk - men and women - ogling the vehicle and keen to be my passenger.
The key, I think, is that the car, in this latest realisation, has grown, so that it is 137mm longer and 78mm wider and, is thus, more commanding. Height, though, has been more or less left alone, so this is a sleeker roadster, too.
The new dimensions obviously help passenger space, which I will come to in a moment, but in addition they contribute to the enhanced driveability of the car. The balance feels good and the wider track means even greater stability.
There's a brand new rear suspension at work and all TTs have traction and stability programmes as standard, as well as a rear spoiler which deploys at 75mph, but the test car had the added bonus of Audi's magnetic ride system from the options list.
This employs a shock-absorber fluid incorporating microscopic magnetic particles rather than conventional oil; a pulse from sensors alters the flow, changing the damping characteristics in an instant. Country roads or motorway, the roadster is ultra convincing in its handling.
The car feels super controlled for an open-top, as well, and Audi says it is 120 per cent more rigid than its predecessor. Despite this, it is fairly lightweight, thanks to a body shell containing 58 per cent aluminium, while a soft-top has been used rather than the currently-fashionable retractable hard roof, with weight again in mind.
Into this tight, light roadster comes a 200PS 2.0-litre turbo direct-injection petrol engine, developed originally for the Le Mans 24-hour race, which can take the car to 147mph (the alternative is an even more aggressive 3.2 V6 which is teamed with quattro drive to help control it).
The 2.0-litre, voted international Engine Of The Year for the past two years, should satisfy everybody, delivering, as it does, remarkable punch. There's 210lb/ft of pull available, from a mere 1,800 revs all the way up to 5,000 and zooming acceleration can be called on at any time (standstill to 62mph takes just 6.7 seconds) and you don't have to use the six-speed manual gearbox that much, either.
That aids the economy, a very acceptable 36mpg, and the car is so relaxed at motorway pace that it would be all too easy to drift towards the 100mph mark quite innocently. Thankfully, braking is very crisp and sure.
Faced with a lengthy motorway journey I had feared a jarring sporty ride, but, in fact, I did the trip in considerable comfort. The two sports seats are gripping, but you don't feel pinched and multi-adjustment helps the cause. Controls are easy to use once you find them, because there is a tendency to spread them around a bit.
The test car was dressed all in leather, with some spectacular stitching, from the options list (leather/Alcantara upholstery is standard), but the regular décor is up to Audi's usual refined standard, not over-dramatic but with nice aluminium details.
Equipment levels are good and include climate control, front and side airbags, electric windows, heated door mirrors, leather sports steering wheel with flat bottom, and other leather grips, 17in alloys, front fogs and a nine-speaker audio system,
A lot of attention has gone into keeping noise levels down but, with a soft-top, there is bound to be some intrusion, although the gunning snort from the twin tailpipes is not unwelcome.
The actual roof-removal system is a straightforward one-push button operation, it takes only 12 seconds and can be carried out at speeds up to 19mph. A wind deflector is incorporated and efficiently keeps the cabin quite calm.
The Z-stacking of the roof helps the boot because there's no tonneau, but luggage space is still limited - a couple of weekend bags and you are full - and there's a disappointing shortage of stowage areas inside the cabin. But for the two occupants, the car is quite generous in its space, even with the big centre console.
And, above all, it provides a super driving experience, lots of fun and satisfaction. The TT roadster may not be practical, it may be a bit pricey on running costs but, by gum, it will give you a lot of pleasure.
FAST FACTS
Audi TT Roadster 2.0T FSI
Price: £26,940
Mechanical: 198bhp, 1,984cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 6spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 147mph
0-62mph: 6.7 secs
Combined mpg: 36.2
Insurance group: 17
CO2 emissions: 186g/km
BiK rating: 24%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust