2009 Audi A3

With so many Volkswagens and Audis crowding around the same size and price segments, it's easy to get confused on where the Audi A3 fits in. While looking like a stubbier Audi A4 Avant, the A3 actually shares genetic ties with the Jetta, Rabbit, GTI, Eos, etc. Within that family, the A3's selling points are that it's a 4-door hatchback (like the GTI), and that it only carries the better two of that family's three engines (like the GTI). So yeah, the A3 is basically a xerox copy of the GTI. With a $2,000+ price jack.

At least the A3 has good source material. Ride quality and acceleration are competitive, and handling's smooth enough. Its unique "S tronic" transmission (basically, a really good automatic that Audi calls "DSG" elsewhere) works well. The interior is best described as a beautiful mess, thanks to Audi's usual mix of rich, stylish materials and godawful ergonomics, though despite the A3's short body, its seats are quite comfortable in any position. What suffers is cargo space: the A3's caboose fits less cargo than a freakin Toyota Corolla.

Take note of how the A3's personality -- and price -- varies dramatically between its two versions. The $28K base model gets by with a peppy 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo 4-cylinder and front-wheel-drive, either with a 6-speed stick or the 6-speed DSG. Then way up at $36K is the A3 S-Line, which upgrades the engine to a 250-horsepower V6, and also mandates the DSG, all-wheel-drive, a sport suspension, leather, power seat, Bose stereo, and other goodies.

We'd say the base A3 is a better deal than the A3 S-Line, but honestly, both are basically rip-off versions of a car that's not exactly a screaming value to begin with (the GTI, in case you forgot). Stepping down to the GTI also gets better looks, better ergonomics, and some much-needed headroom.

The A3 may have a lot going for it, but nothing you can't find elsewhere. For less money.