Hi, I bit late with my input, but here it is for what's it worth. I have a brand new A3 1.6 tdi with Stronic gearbox with 116bhp. For a 1.6, I find it quite powerful and a joy to drive. I live in Malta which is a small country, so power is not my first priority, but comfort is, and the a3 is a joy to drive, has a fantastic gearbox. What ever engine you chose, I highly recommend the Stronic auto.