BY HARRY KIRSBAUM
n automobile terms, the word "hatchback"
doesn't necessarily conjure up thoughts of
speed and agility, but the 2006 Audi A3 isn't
the typical hatchback. Sure, it doesn't look like
much from the backside, but its real beauty lies
inside and under the hood.
This is Audi's entry-level vehicle — base priced
at $26,140 — but it's loaded with quality not usually
found in a car of that price.
It shares the sportier Audi TT platform as well as
some of its eye appealing interior touches like the
brushed chrome details and the dashboard design.
The real difference is the power and handling,
with a 2.0-liter, turbocharged DOHC engine, 207 lb.
ft. of torque and 200 horses.
The car tops out at 130 mph, and runs the quarter
mile in 14.6 seconds.
The A3 offers a six-speed manual transmission,
but the DSG "automatic" transmission is actually
just as fun as a regular stick.
Continued on page 14
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ANGIE BAAN