Recently AutoWeek showed pics of the A3 and then this week showed some of the new BMW 1 Series. I don't know how they compare mechanically, but, from looks alone, Audi is so much better looking I don't know why anyone would consider the BMW.

...looks are subjective. Also, I don't base my buying decision on looks. If the BMW drives better, chances are I'll buy that over the Audi. That said, my next car will likely be an A3.

The BMW can't match the A3 for looks, but the RWD platform will probably match the A3 for ride, and if the BMW's steering is any good at all, it's going to be better than the A3's supposedly mediocre electro-mechanical steering. Of course, the BMW probably will never get Quattro, which is a definite plus for the A3. Only time will tell.

I don't think that either model is going to be hugely sucessful in the US, the 3-series and A4 will continue to be the bread-and-butter of their respective makers.

Not much reason to buy without quattro. The 2.0T FSI probably would have enough power for the Haldex, but the announcement says front wheel drive. With FWD the A3 competes poorly with the Mazda3s, V50 Volvo T5 and various others.

I was hoping the A3 3.2q would arrive soon enough to replace my W8. No way am I keeping it to the end of warranty!