2007 Audi A3

An all-new model in 2006, the A3 hatchback is basically unchanged for 2007. Available models are the 2.0T and 3.2, which joined the A3 line-up halfway through calendar year 2006.

As its name suggests, the 2.0T uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and is front-wheel drive; the 3.2-litre uses a 3.2-litre V6 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive. Like the TT, the A3’s all-wheel drive is primarily biased to the front wheels, and transfers torque when wheel slippage occurs. The 2.0T comes with a six-speed manual or optional Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), while the 3.2 uses the DSG exclusively. It’s an automatic that uses dual clutches instead of a torque converter for almost instantaneous gearshifts.

Features on the 2.0T include 17-inch alloy wheels, anti-lock brakes, seat-mounted head/thorax airbags, electronic stability program, power mirrors, keyless entry, rear wiper, CD stereo, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, anti-theft alarm system, fog lights, manually-adjustable driver’s seat, rear seat pass-through, satellite radio preparation and speed-sensitive power steering. Available options include a cold-weather package, a Premium package including leather seats and driver information display, an “S-Line” package with sport suspension and trim, and a Technology Package with Bluetooth hands-free telephone system and adaptive Xenon lighting.

The 3.2 adds hill hold assist, Bose premium surround sound six-CD stereo, driver information system, power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated mirrors, heated leather sport seats, heated washer nozzles, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather-wrapped multifunction wheel with paddle shifters, sport suspension and “S-line” front and rear bumpers. Available options include the Technology Package.

Although it’s a compact car, the A3 is incredibly well put together, thoughtfully designed, and offers superior driving dynamics. The 2.0-litre is extremely quick, with virtually no turbo lag; the V6 is equally well-done, offering smooth and comfortable performance. The DSG is an incredible piece of engineering, offering seamless gear transitions whether it’s left to its own devices, or worked manually through wheel-mounted shifter paddles.

The A3's major drawback is its price, which is relatively high for this segment. Putting the Quattro all-wheel drive into the 2.0T would probably draw in more customers, who buy an Audi for its surefooted charms but don't want to have to move up to the 3.2's stiff price tag to get it. At this price, Audi's own A4 becomes a feasible competitor. Drivers may also find the climate control frustratingly complicated and non-intuitive, and it can be difficult to find the right position with the manual driver’s seat. If the pocketbook permits, though, this is a sweet little ride.

An all-new model in 2006, the A3 hatchback is basically unchanged for 2007. Available models are the 2.0T and 3.2, which joined the A3 line-up halfway through calendar year 2006.

As its name suggests, the 2.0T uses a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, and is front-wheel drive; the 3.2-litre uses a 3.2-litre V6 engine and Quattro all-wheel drive. Like the TT, the A3’s all-wheel drive is primarily biased to the front wheels, and transfers torque when wheel slippage occurs. The 2.0T comes with a six-speed manual or optional Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG), while the 3.2 uses the DSG exclusively. It’s an automatic that uses dual clutches instead of a torque converter for almost instantaneous gearshifts.

Features on the 2.0T include 17-inch alloy wheels, anti-lock brakes, seat-mounted head/thorax airbags, electronic stability program, power mirrors, keyless entry, rear wiper, CD stereo, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, anti-theft alarm system, fog lights, manually-adjustable driver’s seat, rear seat pass-through, satellite radio preparation and speed-sensitive power steering. Available options include a cold-weather package, a Premium package including leather seats and driver information display, an “S-Line” package with sport suspension and trim, and a Technology Package with Bluetooth hands-free telephone system and adaptive Xenon lighting.

The 3.2 adds hill hold assist, Bose premium surround sound six-CD stereo, driver information system, power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated mirrors, heated leather sport seats, heated washer nozzles, auto-dimming rearview mirror, leather-wrapped multifunction wheel with paddle shifters, sport suspension and “S-line” front and rear bumpers. Available options include the Technology Package.

Although it’s a compact car, the A3 is incredibly well put together, thoughtfully designed, and offers superior driving dynamics. The 2.0-litre is extremely quick, with virtually no turbo lag; the V6 is equally well-done, offering smooth and comfortable performance. The DSG is an incredible piece of engineering, offering seamless gear transitions whether it’s left to its own devices, or worked manually through wheel-mounted shifter paddles.

The A3's major drawback is its price, which is relatively high for this segment. Putting the Quattro all-wheel drive into the 2.0T would probably draw in more customers, who buy an Audi for its surefooted charms but don't want to have to move up to the 3.2's stiff price tag to get it. At this price, Audi's own A4 becomes a feasible competitor. Drivers may also find the climate control frustratingly complicated and non-intuitive, and it can be difficult to find the right position with the manual driver’s seat. If the pocketbook permits, though, this is a sweet little ride.