Test Driving the New Audi A3

Audi is making this sweet hatch even better.

- Since the A3s introduction in the United States in May of last year, the Audi enthusiast community has been groaning for a quattro-equipped model. Unavailable on all 2.0T-powered A3s, the absence of Audi’s signature all-wheel drive system betrayed the history of the quad-ringed marque. Audi answered late in 2005 with the 2006 A3 3.2 S-line quattro DSG. If that sounds like a mouthful to you, you are not the only one – however, this is how all 3.2L A3s will come equipped. Visually, the S-line fascias and sideskirts tastefully lend an aggressive look to the A3s already handsome form. Up front, the deeper S4-style chin compliments the scowling look created by the downturned headlamps. In side profile, all character lines slope forward creating a sense of motion and at the same time give an air of sportiness to an otherwise benign 2-box shape. From the rear, the aforementioned front rake yields a tall rump with shorter backlight, again betraying the boorish station-wagon shape. Taillamps are inspired by the Nuvolari concept, and continue the family resemblance to the A4 and A6. Our tester came equipped with the optional 18” multi-spoke alloy wheels, which look fantastic but promise to frustrate when it comes time for a wash. Our A3 was also equipped with the Open Sky System, a two-part glass sunroof system that appears black from the outside – this contrast worked quite well against our Brilliant Red paint, adding to the sporty appearance. Audi never fails to impress with interior design, and the A3 is no exception. Borrowing key elements from the TT, the A3 deftly marries sporty looks with great ergonomics in a functional overall package. Those familiar with Audi will notice that the textured plastic surfaces lack the soft-touch feel of higher-rent models, yet the aesthetics are every bit as pleasing and promise to be more rugged over time. Our S-line model came equipped with satin aluminum accents on a primarily black background; however there’s some mismatching of finishes among all the metallic bits and pieces – rather uncharacteristic of Audi.
The aforementioned Open Sky system certainly brings a more open, airy feel to the cozy cabin, but those living in the sunny south might want to skip this option as the only relief from the sun comes in the form of thin, flimsy, perforated screens. I say flimsy as our testers forward screen latch had already broken and refused to stay closed. Since the Open Sky system continues rearward into the rear passenger area, there’s no room for rigid, sliding screens; instead, designers were forced to use the spring-loaded roll-away type. They didn’t work well on your grandmother’s house, and they certainly don’t work well here.



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