Needed to replace my 6sp MB SLK320 cause of knee problems. Had a 180hp FWD TT prior to the MB. Test drove auto tranny TT V6, Boxster, sc430 and the SLK350. The sc430, while plush, was quite a snooze to drive (even with V8
300hp). The SLK was ok but the sport suspension was kind of harsh. The Boxster was pretty darn nice but lacked certain essentials like a great stereo, Xenon and heated seats (auto trannys are hard to find so you take what is available). As mentioned, had owned the 180hp FWD TT. Was not expecting such an amazing ride for the new V6. The engine growls (of the others, only the Porsche did), the car is fast and the shifting mechanism is incredible. Ranking the cars is as follows:TT > Porsche (though repairing the thing scares me) > Lexus sc430 (great if you want a VERY cushy non-sports car ride) > slk350 (maybe the regular suspension would have been more forgiving)
Way to go Audi....the new TT is pretty darn cool.....fast, AWD, great transmission (!) and still lookin good