Audi has formally introduced the 2006 A3, a 5-door hatchback that uses the same platform as the current mk5 Golf in Europe. The first engine that will be offered is a 200-horsepower turbocharged 2.0L 4-cylinder mated to a front-wheel-drive drivetrain. Transmission choice for the FWD model will be a 6-speed manual gearbox or DSG direct-shift gearbox. Some time in 2006, a Quattro AWD version will be available with the same 250 hp 3.2L V6 as the A4. The Quattro will also be available with their DSG gearbox. A 4-wheel fully independent suspension should make short work of any curve or bumpy road. With standard 17" or optional 18" wheels, lateral grip should be impressive. Braking prowesses are handled by large diameter 4-wheel disc brakes. Power steering is electrically assisted with a second separate shaft as opposed to a more conventional system that has the electric motor directly attached to the steering column. The new A3 sports the image branding oversized front grille first introduced on the A8 luxury liner and the A6. Standard features include dual-zone climate control, satellite radio, electronic stability control, active headrests and side and curtain air bags. Price: Starting at $33,000 Availability: May 2005 Auto123.com's impressions: A beautiful looking car that may suffer the same fate as the BMW 318i. It might be difficult to justify a 5-door mk5 Golf at a huge premium just because of the Auto Union logo. Should be well built and will hopefully not follow in the footsteps of the much-less-than-reliable Volkswagen.
2006 Audi A3 at Toronto