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Dynamite comes in small packages. The 2006 Audi A3 2.0 Turbo may be a small package but it packs a powerful punch. Wrapped in an attractive hatchback package Audi has brought luxury performance into an affordable and youthful vehicle. In Europe the hatchback/wagon styling was never saddled with the negative stereotype of the suburban family station wagon. European luxury car aficionados understand the utility of a sports hatchback. While the basic wagon design may not inspire passion Audi does an excellent job of letting you know this is no ordinary grocery getter. It's hard to look at the Audi A3 as a station wagon, with it's low swung roofline, high beltline and 225/45 performance tires set on 17" alloy wheels. This is certainly a practical sport design. While the A3 may target the lower end of the economic spectrum, fit and finish deserve the Audi reputation for quality. Competitors in this luxury sport Market may include the Volvo V50, the Passat Wagon from sister company Volkswagen, and the soon to be released 9-3 Sportcombi from Saab. With a base MSRP of $25,460 including the $720 Destination charge, this is certainly targeted at drivers wanting performance and luxury in a compact size. The Audi A3 is not a cheap entry-level vehicle. My test vehicle was almost $30,000 and while well equipped still did not include heated seats. They are part of the optional $700 Cold Weather Package. I personally think that it is inexcusable that many luxury brands still make heated seats an extra cost option. Aiming squarely at tech savvy youthful drivers, advanced electronics are available on the 2006 Audi A3. Bluetooth connectivity, Satellite Radio and Apple I-Pod interface connectivity are all available on this model. The optional Navigation System even lets you store and play MP3 music on compact SD Cards. Standard equipment provides an exceptional level of safety, earning the 2006 Audi A3 the "Double Best Pick" from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Dual zone Automatic Climate Control with Dust/Pollen Filter is standard. Active Head Restraints and Inflatable Curtain Airbags are safety features often missing on cheaper vehicles. Telescopic feature added to the Tilt Steering Wheel helps to make this car fit the individual driver. The fun feature of the 2006 A3 is the driving perception for the individual driver. You simply don't reach for this level of vehicle unless you have a passion for automotive art. My vehicle was the base 2.0 liter DOHC turbocharged 4cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower. For a little more bang one can opt for the 3.2 liter V6 producing 250 horsepower and driven by the famed quattro(r) all-wheel drive system. Just announced for a mid year introduction is an A3 3.2 quattro S-line. Frankly the 200 horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to the six speed manual transmission provided an exceptionally fun driving experience. The estimated 32 MPG on the highway and 24 MPG in the city produces a pleasant feeling as well. Warranty and roadside assistance extend up to 4 years or 50,000 miles While I am a true fan of Audi's quattro(r) all-wheel drive system, I was very impressed with the ride, handling and performance of this front wheel drive system. Audi now produces a stunning array of vehicles from this wonderful A3 priced near a $25,000 entry level to the awesome $120,000, 12 cylinder A8. For my taste, I might step up $3,000 to the more traditional Audi A4, but the 2006 Audi A3 provides a very capable sport hatchback design that will please all of your senses. It may be a small package but it will blow you away when you take it for a drive.
2006 Audi A3 2.0 T MT
2.0 Liter Turbo charged 4cylinder Engine
MSRP as tested $29,110 Estimated MPG 24/32 Additional Web only Information and Resources For Additional Reviews: |
©2006 - Stan Risener