I had a bit of a chuckle when I read an article on the Audi TT where it was described as more of a male hairdresser's car than

2010 Audi TTS RoadsterZoom In
The Audi TTS Roadster is one hot little convertible. (Photo: Automotive Metrics)
a sports car. Having never been a fan of the VW Beetle new or old, I couldn't help but place the original TT in the same category as the Beetle. Seems Audi was trying to steal a page out of VW's history books when introducing the TT as a concept vehicle back in 1995.

But for 2010, Audi took the design stage of the new TTS to a whole new level. They made the lines less bubbly looking, with an upswept feature along the sides, complemented with a raised trunk and a discreet rear deck spoiler. The front has a lower open grille accented with a lip spoiler for air distribution and better downforce at higher speeds.

But by today's standards,

2010 Audi TTS RoadsterZoom In
Double hoop roll bars are a unique style statement. (Photo: Automotive Metrics)
styling just isn't enough for deep pocketed sports car enthusiasts, so Audi had to bring more to the table than just an eye-catching exterior.

Eliminating the 3.2-litre V6 from engine options, Audi took its popular 2.0-litre turbo engine and bolted on a larger turbo, added an intercooler and boosted the power up to a respectable 265 horsepower with 258 pound-feet of torque.

Not only did Audi eliminate the 3.2-litre engine, they also eliminated any options for transmissions. There is no longer a manual version available, which may turn off a

2010 Audi TTS RoadsterZoom In
An attractive well-made interior. (Photo: Automotive Metrics)
lot of aficionados. Even though Audi's DSG 6 speed, dual clutch (semi-manual) S-Tronic transmission features lightning fast shifting, you tend to lose some of the sports car feeling when eliminating the control of a manual transmission.

The opening price tag on the 2010 Audi TTS is pretty high at $61,900 when compared to the Porsche Boxster or BMW's Z4, and can quickly go up with all its styling and entertainment options. 

Available upgrades include a navigation system, upgraded 10 speaker Bose audio with dual SD

2010 Audi TTS RoadsterZoom In
Performance is king with the TTS Roadster. (Photo: Automotive Metrics)
card slots, SIRIUS Satellite Radio, music interface (basically an iPod adapter), rear parking system (which incorporates a back up camera and sensors), and 19” alloy wheels.

Even though the TTS had to overcome some hurdles when compared to Porsche and BMW, it has stood its ground. The TTS may not be considered a purebred sports car, but in today's market you kind of have to create an appeal to a wider spectrum. With its much sportier and distinctive styling, convertible option, phenomenal handling and performance for the streets, and simple ease of operation for a less experienced driver, the Audi TTS has pretty much created its own target market.