2006 Audi A3 - Escape Hatch

I knew that extra helping of chicken skewers with peanut sauce wasn't wise. I hate buffets.

Equipped with the same new 2.0T FSI (Fuel Stratified Injection) engine as found in the A4, the hot little hatch handles the road with spirited enthusiasm with only a small hint of turbo lag. Its impressive torque (207 lb-ft) and wide range of power throughout the band (1800-5800 rpm) is partly attributed to FSI (same race technology used in the Le Mans-winning Audi R8), which squirts fuel directly into the combustion chamber, whereas the more familiar port injection puts gas into the intake passages. Combined with a turbocharger, the result is a unique synthesis of performance. Moreover, it's not at the expense of fuel economy. A higher compression ratio also increases engine performance and efficiency. The 2.0-liter turbo has a 10.3:1 compression ratio versus 9.3:1 for the outgoing 1.8T. A whopping 400 pounds lighter than the Avant, the A3 also clearly offers a better power-to-weight ratio. Audi claims zero to 60 mph acceleration in 6.7 seconds.

The engine is mated to a stellar six-speed manual gearbox or the optional sporty DSG (Direct Shift Gearbox) automatic transmission, both in front-wheel drive. Readers already know what we think of the "gearbox that rocks," as we've referred to it in the past. For those not yet familiar, DSG provides dynamic acceleration without interrupting the flow of power from the engine and is yet another A3 feature derived from auto racing technology. Thanks to its electro-hydraulically controlled twin clutch, the system allows lightning-fast gear changes with uninterrupted traction. Shifting is performed automatically in normal or sport mode, or manually using the shifter or paddles. I typically prefer a manual transmission for performance driving, but I've grown quite fond of DSG and couldn't imagine our long term TT with anything else. The A3 is no different and it's also well suited for driving around town, including stop-and-go traffic.

Fitted with a MacPherson front suspension and an innovative four-link independent rear, the A3 offers a comfortable, yet dynamic driving experience with a high standard of stability. Only when pushed to the limit does the front step out a bit, otherwise understeer is very minimal. When activated, the standard ESP (electronic stabilization program) is forgiving and helps keep things under control. Braking is also impressive with large rotors at each corner. Seventeen-inch alloy wheels with 225/45-17 tires come standard, with 18-inch running gear as optional.

A3s are on dealer showrooms now with base models starting at just under $25k-quite a lot of car for the money. Later in the year, Audi will offer a kick-ass model with a 250bhp, 3.2-liter V6, quattro and DSG. Expect to pay five grand more for it.

Historically, a premium vehicle in the hatchback configuration hasn't fared well in North America. BMW tested the waters a decade ago with its 318ti and Mercedes a few years back with its three-door C Coupe. Both were discontinued after short-lived production runs, which may explain why Audi has no current plans to release the three-door version of the A3 here. That may change, as BMW intends to launch its 1 Series late next year, and there's also the pending A Class from Mercedes and even a rumored entry-level hatch from Jag down the road. Until then, the compact five-door reigns supreme with models from the likes of Saab (9-2X), Volvo (V50), Volkswagen (Jetta) and others.

So call Audi's new A3 what you like, a hatchback, a sportback, a wagon. We call it a winner.

2006 AUDI A3 2.0T
MSRP: $24,740

Drivetrain
Transverse front engine, front-wheel drive

Engine
2.0-liter inline four, dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, turbocharged and intercooled

Transmission:
Six-speed manual; Optional six-speed Direct Shift Gearbox (DSG) with electro-hydraulic control

Dimensions
Length x Width x Height (in.): 168 x 77 x 56
Wheelbase: 102 in.
Curb Weight: 3,329 lb

Performance
Peak Power: 200 bhp @ 5100 rpm
Peak Torque: 207 lb-ft @ 1800 rpm
0-60 mph: 6.7 sec.
Top Speed: 130 mph (electronically limited)
Fuel economy: 23 city/30 hwy

Major Safety Equipment: Driver and passenger next generation front airbags, side airbag front, sideguard, two 3-point safety belts with automatic pre-tensioners, height-adjustment and belt force limiters, three 3-point safety belts with automatic pre-tensioners, central locking with safety unlock

Major Standard Features: Automatic climate control, 140-watt stereo w/10 speakers, satellite radio preparation, 17-inch alloy wheels, cruise control, power windows, and central locking