The all-new 2021 Audi RS3 Sportback was spied fighting for grip at the Nurburgring and, in a couple of cases, kicking its tail out a bit.
Then again, that’s to be expected when you push a very powerful hatch to its limits on the track. How powerful? Well, more than enough to give the current mega-hatch king, the 415 HP (421 PS / 310 kW) Mercedes-AMG A45 S, some serious competition.
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Like the Merc, the new RS3 will be available in two versions, standard and Performance. Likely powered by a heavily updated version of the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, the latter will reportedly have 444 HP (450 PS / 331 kW) available on tap. A drift mode is rumored for this model, which will also feature the quattro all-wheel drive system and a dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Those who will not want to spend extra on the RS3 Performance Sportback (name unconfirmed) can order the standard version – well, as much as anyone can call a hot hatch with a rumored 414 HP (420 PS / 309 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque standard. The same powertrains will be used in the 2021 RS3 Sedan, which is the one that will launch in North America.
Elsewhere, look for a sporty body kit that will draw a clear line between the RS3 and regular A3, as well as quad exhaust pipes, sports seats, model-specific upholstery, RS badging and several other extras.
The RS3 Sportback should premiere before the end of the year, followed shortly by the four-door body style.