I drove a new S3/RS3 whatever they're called, with a manual box. I seem to remember 350 bhp ish? It was fast, very fast, but in an unfulfilling kind of way that always left you wanting more. The torque was limited in 1st gear which was obvious and just made it seem restrained and boring. The cabin was very small, although I am 6"1', and the visibility was extremely poor, front, back and sides but I find the same with many new cars. The suspension seemed like it had been removed and the ride was terrible, which is a big no no, and IMO the appearance is to be ridiculed, bling city. I saw a saloon version of the a3 too, it looked like it was an A4 that had been rear ended by a lorry at 60 mph, it was a horrible squashed down little ugly thing that reminded me of micro machines. So is it for girls? Yes, because you'd only ever buy it if you liked the colour.