MUCH of today's driving can be mundane and boring, stuck in traffic while commuting to and from work.
But then a car like the Audi A3 TFSi comes along and my enthusiasm is rekindled so much I can't get enough.
I drove the Sportback five door hatch with the DSG twin clutch semi-auto gearbox and the combination is quite superb.
The engine is smooth and quiet - although I like a little more noise - and the gearbox changes quicker than you can do it yourself with a manual, which is stunning.
The amount of urge is excellent, with a very smooth power delivery, and the gearbox can be fully automatic or wonderful clutchless manual with paddles to change up and down.
The road holding is perfectly balanced with huge grip and the ride good at speed but unsettled in town.
Interior
Like all Audis, there is a wide range of standard equipment and a huge further array on the extras list.
The cockpit is lovely, with everything just to hand, and the driving position is super. But rear legroom is not up to much with a six footer up front.
FAST FACTS
Audi A3 Sportback TFSi auto
Price: £23,275
Mechanical: 197bhp, 1,984cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd automatic gearbox
Max speed: 146mph
0-62mph: 6.9 secs
Combined mpg: 36
Insurance group: 15
CO2 emissions: 190g/km
BiK rating: 25%
Warranty: 3yrs/ 60,000 miles, 3yrs paint, 12yrs anti-rust
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: VW Golf