2006 Audi A3: Road Test
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2006 Audi A3 ▼
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- MSRP: $24,740 -$33,980
- Invoice: $22,998 -$31,561
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Our road test for the 2006 Audi A3 includes a full evaluation of the 2006 Audi A3 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 Audi A3, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 Audi A3 help you decide if a 2006 Audi A3 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 7 | 6.2 |
Audi's quotes for 2.0 T models--6.7 sec 0-60 mph with SMT, 6.9 with manual transmission--rang true in test drives. But 2.0 T's turbo 4-cyl suffers lag in low-speed power delivery, then supplies it with pronounced rush. 3.2 S-line also slightly tepid just off the line, but strong, linear thereafter; expect 0-60 in low-6-sec range with either transmission. SMT's shifts are rewardingly smooth, prompt in manual mode, but feel lackadaisical in automatic mode in our extended-use-test 2.0 T.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 5 | 5.4 |
No opportunity to measure with manual transmission. With SMT, extended-use 2.0 T averaging 26.1 mpg over first 5978 miles, other test 2.0 Ts averaged 23.3-25.4 mpg. Test S-line averaged 19.4 mpg. Audi recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | 5 | 4 | 5.9 |
Firm but reasonably absorbent with 2.0 T's base suspension. 2.0 T with Sport Package and 3.2 S-line notably stiffer, enough to thump on sharp bumps, washboard surfaces. All versions stable at highway speed, even over dips, swells.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 8 | 7.2 |
Agile, no undue body lean in corners, but 2.0 T with base suspension suffers some noseplow in tight, fast turns. Sport Package, 3.2 S-line have sharper responses, little noseplow. Steering accurate, linear, though some testers want firmer feel. Rapid takeoffs induce minor torque-steer pull to one side in 2.0 T. 3.2 S-line's AWD a traction boon in all conditions; test car unimpeded by 10 inches of unplowed snow. Brakes strong, easily modulated.
QUIETNESS
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 6 | 6.1 |
Some coarse-surface tire thrum, but wind rush low at highway speeds. No untoward engine sounds, even at high rpm.
CONTROLS
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
Like costlier Audis, A3 impresses with clear gauges, handy switchgear. Complicated dual-zone climate controls require familiarization. Cabin decor understated; materials tasteful, high quality.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.5 |
Adult-size head and leg room. Seats all-day comfortable; sport seats have slightly larger side bolsters for excellent support in turns. Oddly, even power seats include some manual adjustments. Rear roofline slightly impedes driver vision aft and to right-rear.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.6 |
Decent head room for six-footers, and adequate leg room as long as front seats are no more than halfway back. Cushion nicely padded, but not long enough for good thigh support. Doors open wide, but entryways not that large.
CARGO ROOM
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 6 | 6 | 4.7 |
Not as much space as a small station wagon, but far more versatile than a sedan. Hatch door lifts high enough for access to usefully roomy, flat-floor cargo bay. Rear seatbacks fold easily to extend load area, but don't fold completely flat. Good cabin small-item storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 4 | 5 | 6.1 |
Upscale hatchbacks haven't traditionally appealed to American tastes, so Audi's taking a risk with this European-style premium compact. The A3 has plenty of features and versatile space in a tasteful, not-too-large package. With standard all-wheel drive and a gutsy V6, the 3.2 S-line is the most rewarding model to drive, but also the most expensive. The 2.0 T's turbo-engine power delivery is nonlinear, and the quirks of the sequential manual transmission tarnish its otherwise eager personality.
Total Score
| 2.0 T w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.0 T w/Prem. Pkg., SMT | 3.2 S-line | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|
| 59 | 56 | 58 | 58.7 |
Total Score: 58
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