2006 Audi A3: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

An all-wheel-drive V6 model joins Audi's 2006 lineup of premium-compact 4-dr hatchbacks. The A3 shares some underskin design with the Jetta and Golf from Audi-parent Volkswagen. It's slightly smaller and less costly than Audi's other premium compact car, the A4. The A3 offers two models. The 2.0 T has front-wheel drive and a 200-hp turbocharged 4-cyl engine. Added for '06 is the 3.2 quattro S-line. It has AWD and a 250-hp V6. The 2.0 T comes with a 6-speed manual transmission. Optional on the 2.0 T and mandatory for the 3.2 is Audi's Direct Shift Gearbox, a sequential manual transmission (SMT). A3s come with ABS and traction/antiskid control. Also standard are front side airbags and curtain side airbags. Rear torso side airbags are optional. Leather upholstery, sport front seats, alloy cabin accents, and sport-tuned suspension are standard on the 3.2, optional on the 2.0 T. Both have split folding rear seatbacks. Options include a navigation system and Audi's Open Sky System, a glass roof with a sliding glass sunroof over the front seats.

COMPETITION

Consumer Guide® Automotive places each vehicle into one of 17 classes based on size, price, and market position. Premium Compact Cars are similar in size but more expensive than Compact Cars. Premium Compacts have more standard equipment and an upscale image when compared to Compact Cars.

Our Best Buys in the Premium Compact Car class are Acura TSX, Audi A4, and BMW 3-Series. At this time we have no Recommended picks.

New or significantly redesigned models in this class include Audi A3 and Lexus IS.