It doesn’t arrive in the UK until spring 2007, but when it does the Audi TT Roadster will feature a body that’s 100 per cent more rigid than that of the car it replaces, and a hood that raises or lowers in 12secs.

First-wave models will be the front-drive 2.0T with 197bhp and the all-wheel-drive 247bhp 3.2-litre V6. Both have six-speed manuals as standard and both can be ordered with what used to be called DSG (a twin-clutch semi-automatic transmission) but which has now been renamed ‘S tronic’.

The mechanism and frame for the cloth roof is lighter than before and folds into a ‘Z’, which not only makes for a more compact package but means that the rigid front section of the roof is left on top to form a flush-fitting tonneau cover. The rear screen is heated glass.

Despite the onset of winter Audi is opening the order book right now, with prices for the 2.0T starting from £26,915 and for the 3.2 quattro from £31,535.