Why Audi has decided to freshen up the TT range - upping the power of some models, ditching others - so late in its life is hard to fathom, but the upshot is that the front-driver has once again come to our attention and garnered our affections. True, the 1.8 turbo isn't a glowing ball of energy, but it picks up strongly from about 3000rpm and keeps its vigour and sweet voice all the way to 6500rpm. You're not plagued by torque-steer or wheelspin during hard acceleration, and the traction control very discreetly prevents an inside wheel lighting up in a tight corner.

Having just the front wheels driven saves 130kg over the similarly potent quattro derivative, and you can feel the difference in the comparative suppleness of the suspension and the well-tuned body movement over rough surfaces taken at speed. And in some instances it means you can carry more speed than in gutsier TTs. Progressive, convincing brakes and feelsome steering further bolster your confidence, and you end up driving it as you would a well-sorted hot hatch.

It costs £21,290, which means eschewing all-wheel drive saves you £4600. It also means you get one of Europe's most desirable coupes for the price of a specced-up Golf GTI. Can't be bad.