Now a sedan, 2015 Audi A3 has a grip on the competition

When the folks at Audi set out to redesign the A3 for 2015, they apparently decided to think outside the box -- make that outside the hatch. They turned the dang thing into a sedan.

Smart move, though, in the ever-competitive entry luxury-sedan segment. And, if you're already whining, relax: A sportback and cabrio are coming your way in this production year. So are a diesel and hybrid version.

The new A3 is small — think of it as the little brother of the A4, shorter and less expensive. Beware, some may even call it cute. Backseat riders may not find it so cute once they squeeze back there, though.

I like its looks and its future, but there is a slew of entries ready to take it on: think BMW's 2-Series and 320i, Acura ILX, Volvo S60, even the Buick Regal T and Verano. But, perhaps, Audi most clearly has its sights on Mercedes' new 2014 CLA.

There is lots of chatter on the forums between the Z3 and CLA folks. One guy called the A3 an ugly troll. Another conceded the A3 is "nice," but said the CLA is "way sexier."

Here's what it comes down to: The A3 may not be the sexiest kid on the block, but it is one of my top choices among this bunch when it comes to pure performance — and it's the only way to go if you want the grip that the Quattro all-wheel drive affords.

Punch it and feel the A3's turbocharged quickness right from the get-go. Especially from the bigger 2.0-liter engine, which zips to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds. Getting it there is a herd of 220 ponies and 258 pound-feet of torque.

Here's what you gotta love: Both get around the same fuel economy — 27 mpg combined. Even crazier, EPA's city rating for the 2.0 is actually one mpg higher at 24. Not sure how they did that but it's one more argument to step up to the 2.0.

The A3 is a compact and feels like it on the road — but in a good way, like agility, cornering and parking.

The ride is firm enough for good road feel, but comfortable for commutes and even not bad on longer trips.

Changing gears is done smoothly and without indecision; a 6-speed dual-clutch transmission is standard on all models.

Inside the A3 has a surprisingly simple look, as Audi left out the flashy wood or aluminum trim here. But it is clean and sophisticated and materials are top notch from top to bottom.

Seats are on the firm side but not uncomfortably so. As aforementioned, the back row is a squeeze to get into and get comfortable. You won't bang your head, but better take your time.

Under the short trunk lid, trunk space is tight at 12.3 cubic feet — and only 10 if you get the AWD Quattro.

Disappointing up front is that there is no push-button start option. Also, my wife and I found the center-console cupholder in an awkward spot — right in front of the shifter. Forget larger cups there, too.

A 10-speaker audio system is standard, but available is the magnificent 14-speaker, 705-watt Bang & Olufsen unit. Worth the extra money.

A3 comes with all the usual safety goodies, like ABS stability and traction control and a full complement of air bags (rear air bags are optional). A Driver Assistance package adds front and rear sensors, blind-spot warning, rear-view camera and even an automated parking system.

The five-seat A3 comes in just one trim — called the Premium — but you can option up with the Premium Plus and Prestige packages, which include many of the features mentioned here.

All versions get a panoramic sunroof. And a separate Sport package gets sport seats up front, shift paddles on the steering wheel and variable drive settings.