Audi TT Roadster is the smartest (pictures)

Audi's third generation TT model was redesigned from the ground up, and debuts as a 2016 model year car in the US available in both coupe and roadster form.

The Audi TT Roadster combines excellent driving dynamics with innovative cabin electronics.

The design keeps many of the TT's iconic cues, but adopts more of an angular look, in keeping with Audi's current corporate styling.

LED headlights come standard.

The only engine available in the TT is this turbocharged 2-liter, making 220 horsepower. A more powerful TT S model will be available next year.

At 13.6 feet overall length, the TT Roadster's compact size contributes to quick handling.

The cloth top powers up and down in under 30 seconds.

The roadster version of the TT loses the rear seats and some of the cargo capacity of the coupe version.

These 19-inch wheels come as an optional package.

Although pricey, the TT Roadster comes with high-tech gear and a finely appointed cabin.

Quattro all-wheel-drive, capable of pushing 100 percent torque from front to rear axle, helps the TT Roadster tackle the turns.

One design cue the TT Roadster keeps from its earlier versions is the metal-color gas cap.

Power-adjustable sport seats add to comfort and help keep you planted in the turns.

Individual roll bars add some measure of safety.

Unlike traditional dashboards, the TT Roadster shows neither screen nor radio in the center.

The console holds the shifter for the six-speed dual clutch transmission and controller for cabin electronics.

The DriveSelect button changes the car's tuning between sport and comfort modes.

Rather than clutter the dashboard with climate controls, Audi integrates them into the vents.

The Virtual Cockpit interface is the real innovation with the TT, giving the easier visual access to cabin electronics control. All onscreen functions, except for alpha-numeric inputs, can be controlled with buttons on the steering wheel.

The screen shows good angular visibility, so the passenger can actually use the console-mounted controls to program music or destinations.

The instrument cluster becomes a large, 12.3-inch LCD, showing virtual gauges and all infotainment functions.

The driver can quickly choose between different driving modes.

Audi retains its Google Earth imagery for the navigation system.

Drivers can also opt for a graphical, onboard map, especially useful for areas with no data service.

For destination entry, the TT Roadster presents a single box, automatically searching for places and street names when the driver enters letters.

As one of Audi's data services, the TT Roadster includes parking lots with real-time capacity information, when available.

Drivers can choose HD or satellite radio with the Virtual Cockpit.

Onboard audio sources include Bluetooth streaming, USB ports for iPhones as well as thumb drives and Wi-Fi connected phones.

The music library screen shows standard categories, such as album and genre.

With the current track screen active, drivers can see what's playing at a glance.

Audi also integrates the back-up camera view with the Virtual Cockpit.

The Audi TT Roadster is a remarkably satisfying car, although don't expect to carry much in the way of passengers or cargo.