The 2008 Audi TT Roadster is a two-seat sports convertible due at showrooms spring 2008. The new roadster comes with either a 2.0 liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that develops 200 hp, or a 3.2 liter V6 Quattro that pumps out 250 hp. You can outfit either with a 6-speed manual or 6-speed S-tronic with paddle shifters.

The most arresting new design features on the 2008 TT are the slanting headlights coupled with the prominent Audi grille. Comparing the 2.0 to the 3.4, you notice two distinct performance characteristics. In the 2.0, which is lighter, expect more lively response to the steering wheel and a sharper suspension response. The 3.4 is heavier and more powerful, translating into quicker acceleration but more inertia around curves. Zero to 60 for the 3.4 is 5.9 sec, while the 2.0 is not ashamed to report 6.5 seconds.

Standard on the TT are cowhide wrapped steering wheel, AM/FM with CD changer prep, halogen headlights, climate control, security system, and cruise control. The cabin of the TT Roadster is roomy and well-arranged, with thoughtful placement of easy to read instruments and mirrors. You can order the multilayer soft retractable top to be operated manually or automatically.

Options with either the 2.0 or 3.4 include satellite navigation, full cowhide upholstery, and programmed xenon headlamps. To personalize your 2008 Audi TT Roadster, purchase the attractive Audi valve stem caps or license plate frame with TT logo. A more practical accessory for your TT would be the Audi security wheel bolts.

Both models of the TT roadster give you a good feel for the road and reduced body flex due to the thicker aluminum beams and buttressing in the doors. The soft top has three layers that reduce external wind noise. From a safety standpoint, the TTs have big two-stage airbags and special crumple zones to limit the trauma of a rear-end or frontal crash. The 2008 Audi TT Roadster leaves you some cash after a fill up with 21-25 mpg city and 26-32 mpg highway.