Took both a 2.0T and a 3.2Q out for a test drive yesterday. Both cars had the DSG transmission and Open Sky. The 2.0 had cloth interior and very few options, while the 3.2 was pretty much loaded (inc nav). I wanted to compare the 2, against each other, as well as get a feel for the differences between the A3 and my 2007 GTI.

My fiance and I both noticed the extra weight of the Quattro system, as well as the reduced turning circle. But both cars had ample pick-up to satisfy us. The A3 is a more comfortable ride over the GTI, especially on harsh roads, but that doesn't change the handling aspect. Both A3s gripped through the twisty, bumpy road course we picked, and both were fun to drive.

The noise level in the A3 is a lot like my A6 - quiet, serene, just the purr of the motor in the background. The GTI has a 'sound port' to funnel part of the engine noise into the cockpit to - I guess - add to the sportiness of the car. While it's a pleasant sound, I don't think I'd want that drone on a cross-country road trip. Whereas I could drive an A3 coast-to-coast with no problems.

Ultimately, we're trying to decide if we want to trade in the C6 A6 for a smaller Audi, and the A3 seems the most likely candidate. The roominess of the interior seems to be on-par with the A4, but there's a $3K-$5K price delta between the 2.

My .02, and YMMV.

That's what I did and I'm 100% happy with it. The S-Line pkg gives an already great car that much more IMO. If your dealer doesn't have one on the lot, they can do a search for one. It only took my dealer 4 days to get the S-Line to me.

For me, the 3.2Q wasn't worth the extra $$. I like the better MPG of the 2.0T and I don't need Quattro. I also like the easy modability of the 2.0T.

Good luck with your decision!

stick to auto
quattro to fwd

I purposely didn't get opensky because i didn't want the weight there.

Loving the smaller, nimbler feel. Power (chipped vs chipped) is good enough but can't put the power down like i used to. Also miss the stick even though automatic is more convenient and probably better performing.

Overall i'm happy with the move. A6 was like a GT but A3 is more sporty feeling.

...is lagging behind the 2.0T in terms of available mod parts. So if you are going to eventually mod, you will need to be patient. HPA is making some great pieces for that engine, so we'll see. Either way, welcome to the club, if you do choose to buy.