Long-Term Update: 2006 Audi A3
By Neil G. Chirico
Photography by Brian Vance
Total mileage 12,372
Average fuel econ: 21.8 mpg
Unresolved problems: None
Maintenance cost:$0 (first service)
Normal-wear cost: $3 (one quart oil)
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There's much more to like about the A3 than just its excellent Direct Shift Gearbox transmission. Audi didn't cut corners; the A3 looks, feels, and drives like any other Audi. You never sense that you're driving the less-expensive version. We've driven the V-6, and while it's fast, you won't be disappointed should you opt for a 2.0 turbo like ours. This car provides excellent power delivery without the nose-heaviness felt in the 3.2. The only complaints involve touchy brakes and more-than-expected road noise--which disappears at the twist of the Bose stereo's volume knob.