Christmas has come early for Audi fans – the manufacturer has just confirmed it will be introducing the RS badge to its A3 range for the first time.
The new RS3 will be the flagship for the five-door Sportback line-up and with 335bhp on tap it easily outpaces its closest competitors in the mega-hatch turf war.
Thanks to the 2.5-litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine beneath the bonnet (pinched from the RS TT) the Sportback will rocket to 62mph in 4.6 seconds – making it every bit as quick as a V8-powered R8.
As with all hot Audis the RS3 gets permanent four-wheel drive courtesy of the manufacturer's Quattro system, and sits on a wider, lower suspension setup.
The five-pot engine is mated to the seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch gearbox which includes a launch control system for explosive off-the-line performance.
The RS3 is likely to sound the part at the lights too – Audi has enhanced the signature rhythm of its powerplant by fitting a sound flap to the exhaust which is controlled by the no doubt forever pushed Sport button found in the cabin.
Round that tantalising knob is the kind of newly trimmed interior you expect to find in a flagship Audi. Aluminium inlays and a smattering of RS3 badges are likely to be the only feature that disrupts the black Nappa leather.
Outside the Sportback gains flared arches, cills and air intakes, as well as a high-gloss black diffuser and a large roof spoiler.
The RS3 will cost from £39,900 when it goes on sale in the UK next month.