I personally havn't driven one but i have driven all of the VW's that are out there (seeing as i work for VW) and the new style chasis is amazing, its 20% more stiff than the MKIV's and a great over all car. the new A3 will come with 2 motors. the 2.0T and the 3.2L V6.
the 2.0T is 200HP and front wheel drive (until they release the quatro for that here in the states) and the 3.2L V6 will be Quatro as well with about 250HP like the R32 but different chasis and all.