By Gary and Genie Anderson
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We drove several cars that are worth your consideration. Here are capsule reviews of some of the cars whose keys have recently been in our key basket.
2006 Audi A3
In brief: Five-door compact hatchback new to the U.S. market in 2006. Designed to be both a driver’s car and a functional transportation module.
Model tested: Audi A3 Sportback 2.0 T turbocharged AWD.
Base price: $24,740. As tested: $26,910.
Horsepower: 200; Torque: 207 pound-feet.
EPA fuel economy: 24 mpg city/30 mpg hwy.
Likes: Quick with nimble handling; backseat spacious enough for tall people; good dash displays; accessible cargo space.
Dislikes: Jerky throttle and gear transitions; complicated navigation system.
2006 Subaru Forester
In brief: A compact sport-ute with good mileage that’s practical, fun to drive and can actually go off road.
Model tested: Subaru 2.5 XT Limited turbocharged AWD
Base model price: $21,795. As tested: $29,365.
Horsepower: 230; Torque: 235 pound-feet.
EPA fuel economy: 21 mpg city/26 mpg hwy.
Likes: Handling and performance of a WRX rally car; lots of cargo space for camping or hauling; attractive interior.
Dislikes: Plain vanilla exterior; less-than-solid road feel; small fuel tank.
2006 Dodge Charger
In brief: New for 2006, full-sized four-door, five-passenger sedan with imposing looks, good performance and exceptional interior space.
Model tested: Dodge Charger SXT with V6 and upgraded features.
Base model price: $22,320. As tested: $28,305.
Horsepower: 250; Torque: 250 pound-feet.
EPA fuel economy: 19 mpg city/27 mpg hwy.
Likes: Great sedan for family or grandparents; good rear seat and trunk space; high seating position.
Dislikes: Not the two-door high performance Charger of old; steering over-assisted.
