2006 Audi A3

The new, entry-level Audi is the conveniently sized A3 four-door hatchback, which combines utility and sports-car-style driving fun.

The compact front-drive A3 is an early 2006 model that can easily be driven in a spirited manner, which is one of the marks of a well-designed auto. It's smaller than the high-volume Audi A4, which starts at several thousand dollars more.

The A3 costs $24,740 with a six-speed manual transmission. It lists at $26,140 with Audi's race-car-inspired Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) automatic transmission. Derived from a conventional six-speed manual gearbox, the DSG is essentially a clutchless manual transmission.

That DSG was in my A3 test car and provides lightning fast gear changes with an electro-hydraulically controlled twin clutch. However, I left it in "drive" mode most of the time because it shifts smoothly and efficiently in that mode.

The approximately 3,300-pound A3 has Audi's newly designed large grille, which looks better on this model than on larger Audis. The A3 resembles a small station wagon, although Audi calls it a "premium compact sedan with the sportiness of the Audi TT coupe sports car."

The A3 could be called a crossover vehicle because of its hatchback and generous cargo area, especially with the split rear seatbacks folded forward. Most "crossovers" are basically wagons, anyway.

Some might feel that Audi's new electro-mechanical steering with speed-dependent power assist is overly light at lower speeds. However, it becomes progressively firmer to provide a reassuring feel at highway speeds and consumes less energy than a conventional steering system.

The A3 almost feels like a lithe two-seater. The anti-lock all-disc brakes with a brake assist feature for panic stops provide good stopping power, although their rather touchy pedal took getting used to.

My test A3's ride was supple but firm with its all-independent suspension, although it didn't have the optional Sport package. That $1,800 package adds items such as a firmer sports suspension, higher-performance tires, aluminum interior trim, front sport seats, leather-covered seats and a roof spoiler.

My test A3 had the $2,025 Premium package. It contains a power driver's seat and most of the features of the Sport package -- except for the sport suspension, performance tires, spoiler and sport seats. However, the standard front seats could be mistaken for sport seats because they provide excellent support.

Surfaces on some highways brought out excessive tire noise above 65 mph, but the A3 is generally quiet and refined, with excellent fits and finishes and upscale interior materials.

Power is from a turbocharged 2-liter four-cylinder engine that feels larger than it is and provides rapid acceleration (0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds). This is the first production engine to combine FSI gasoline direct injection with a turbocharger.

That technology was in the Audi R8 that won the 24-hour Le Mans endurance race. It allows good responsiveness in all speed ranges, with maximum torque of 207 pound-feet available across a wide engine speed range -- from 1,800 rpm to 5,000 rpm. Engine revs are higher than in larger-engine cars above 65 mph with the automatic transmission. But the engine still is relaxed at high cruising speeds with plenty of reserve punch for passing.

Fuel economy is decent, at an estimated 25 mpg in the city and 31 on highways.

A 250-horsepower V-6 with 237 pound-feet of torque will be offered with the DSG automatic transmission and Audi's quattro all-wheel-drive system early next year, along with optional 18-inch wheels.

The A3 has a high level of standard comfort and convenience equipment, including automatic climate control, remote keyless entry, power windows, cruise control and an AM/FM/CD sound system with 10 speakers.

The $700 Cold Weather package would have been appreciated here last winter with its heated front seats, windshield washer nozzles and exterior mirrors.

There's decent room for four tall adults, although leg room gets tight behind a 6-foot driver who moves his seat more than halfway back. The right rear passenger has no such problem. The dashboard is nicely designed, although some audio and climate controls are small.

Safety features include an antiskid/traction control system, front torso side air bags and head-protecting curtain side air bags. Rear torso air bags are $350.

One reason for an entry-level car is to interest its owners into eventually moving up to an automaker's larger, costlier models. Many A3 buyers can easily get hooked on Audis. 

2006 AUDI A3 

PRICES
$24,740-$26,140

LIKES
New entry-level Audi. Fast. Sporty. Fairly roomy. High quality.

DISLIKES
Tire noise. Small audio and climate controls. Firm ride.