Everyone knows that Audi’s volume (eh hem..entry level) model in the U.S. is the A4, so we can’t really blame the boys from Ingolstadt for restricting the current A3 to two variations from an extensive lineup that consists of eight engines and two body styles (3/5 door) in Germany. But we are still fans of this slick little A3 Sportback
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With intoxicating curves hammered into cold steel by the legendary design house Pininfarina, the seductive Brera represents one more reason to bring the Italian brand back over to this side of the pond. Sporting a rather modest (by American standards) 256 hp powerplant from its 3.2 liter V6, the Brera won’t knock your head back (0 – 62 mph in about 7.0 secs), but is certainly competitive with other premium hot hatches like the VW GTI, Mini Cooper S and Volvo C30.
Three modern day Mini Coopers, all caught in one beautiful frame – scenes like this are the reason we carry bulky cameras around all day. Each of these Minis are of the racy “S” variety, but the 2 on either end are second generation versions. The gen 1 example racing up the middle can be identified by its 17-inch multi-spoke wheels and less shiny “S” badge above the wheel well. Apparently New Yorkers are not the only ones loving Mini Coopers these days. While most automakers struggled to stay alive in 2008, BMW-owned Mini posted its best ever sales (+29%).
