2006-2008 Audi A3: Road Test

Acceleration with the A3 2.0 T ranks good for its class. Audi claims of 6.7 seconds for 0-60 acceleration with the SMT, and 6.9 with manual transmission, have rung true in test drives. A test 3.2 with SMT reached 60 mph in 6.7 seconds. On the down side, four-cylinder suffers turbo lag in low-speed power delivery, then supplies it with a pronounced rush. The 3.2 S line also is slightly tepid on takeoff, but strong and linear as speed rises. SMT shifts are rewardingly smooth, and also prompt in manual mode, but sometimes lackadaisical when in automatic mode. Some SMTs have revealed low-speed driveline jerkiness. An SMT-equipped 2.0 T averaged 26.3 mpg in long-term testing, while other 2.0 Ts managed 23.3 to 25.4 mpg. That compares to 19.0 -19.4 mpg for 3.2 S line models. Audi recommends premium-grade fuel for both engines. With the 2.0 T's base suspension, the ride is firm but reasonably absorbent. A 2.0 T with the Sport Package or a 3.2 S line is stiffer--enough to thump over sharp bumps and washboard surfaces, though not really jarring. Ride quality suffers most with the available low-profile 18-inch tires. All models are stable at highway speed, even over dips and swells. A3 tails may react abruptly to highway pavement joints. Generally agile with the base suspension, the 2.0 T suffers some noseplow in tight, fast turns, but no undue body lean in corners. Rapid takeoffs can induce minor torque-steer pull to one side. Sport-package models and the 3.2 S line have sharper responses with little noseplow. Steering is accurate and linear, though some testers would prefer firmer steering feel. The 3.2's all-wheel drive is a boon to traction in all road conditions. Brakes are strong and easily modulated. A3s are essentially quiet. Expect some coarse-surface tire thrum, which is more pronounced with 18-inch tires. But wind rush is low at highway speeds. Engine noise is modest even at high rpm. Like more costly Audis, the A3 impresses with its clear gauges and handy switchgear. On the other hand, complicated dual-zone climate-system controls require familiarization. A single console knob governs most navigation-system functions, which take time to master and inconveniently include several audio adjustments. Understated cabins are handsomely assembled using tasteful, high-quality materials. Adult-size head and legroom are the rule up front, on all-day comfortable seats. Sport seats in the S line have slightly larger side bolsters for excellent support in turns. Oddly, even the power seats include some manual adjustments. The hatchback's rear roofline slightly impedes driver vision aft and to the right rear. Six-footers get decent back-seat headroom, plus adequate leg space as long as front seats are no more than halfway back. Though nicely padded, the rear cushion is not long enough for good thigh support. Doors open wide, but entryways are not so large. Cargo space is more limited than that of a small station wagon, but it's far more versatile than a compact sedan's. The hatch door lacks separate-opening glass, but lifts high enough for access to a usefully roomy, flat-floor cargo bay. Rear seatbacks fold easily to extend the load area, but don't fold completely flat. Cabins promise good small-item storage.

Value for the Money
Traditionally, upscale hatchbacks have not appealed to American tastes, so it's been interesting to see how buyers have taken to this European-style premium-compact. Basically, sales have been uninspiring. The 2.0 T's turbo-engine power delivery is nonlinear, and the sequential manual transmission's quirks shade an otherwise eager personality. In every form, though, the tastefully designed A3 delivers enough features and driving enjoyment, with versatile space in a sensibly-sized package, to earn a Recommended rating. Despite powertrain drawbacks, the 2.0 T delivers the best dollar value. With AWD and gutsy V6, 3.2 is more rewarding but rather pricey. Secondhand A3s are likely to sell for a little less than other Audi models, as a percentage of their price when new.