evecars.com Car of the Year Results - Sporty numbers
20 August 2007
Winner: Audi TT
Price: £24,650-£29,385 Inside: Looks great and it's easy to get comfortable Drive: Sexy purr from the engine and fabulous to drive Space: Fine for two but rear seats are best for storing extra bags
Pick of the range: 2.0 TFSI
We love the growl of the Audi TT's 2.0-litre engine, and the car is satisfyingly quick off the mark. Handling fills you with confidence and a sixth gear means the TT will cruise calmly on the motorway. Sexy styling touches include the silver TT-engraved petrol cap and chrome-ringed air vents and dials on the dash.
Space isn't a priority here, but the TT is comfortable, and visibility is good. The hatchback opens onto a generous space that's easy to load.
Runners up: Mazda RX-8, BMW 3 Series Coupe
A four-door coupe is a rarity, but the Mazda RX-8 manages it with Rolls-Royce-style rear-hinged doors opening onto the back seats, making it better for carrying four than the TT. The drive wasn't as responsive as we'd expected and at low speeds the ride is on the firm side of sporty. While the car looks good value, high emissions and fuel consumption will push up costs.
The new BMW 3 Series Coupe is the least sporty contender here, and more of an executive sports saloon than outright sports car. It was the most practical, with plenty of room for four and a big boot. While it's firm at low speeds, the car handles beautifully and is composed on faster roads.