We have just snapped the first spy photos of a next generation Audi S3 while testing on the Nürburgring racetrack.

The prototype would have gone by unnoticed if weren’t for the S3’s trademark quad tail pipes at the back. The production model that will follow next year will also sport a different front bumper with larger air-inlets and a chrome-trimmed grille along with a rear diffuser and bespoke alloy rims shod in wider wheels.

The current Audi S3 is powered by a 2.0-liter TFSI delivering 262hp (265PS) and 350Nm. We hear that the next iteration of Ingolstadt’s hot hatch features a new 2.0-liter force-fed four generating around 280-horses.

Naturally, the S3 is equipped with Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system while transmission options will include a six-speed manual and a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The regular 2013 A3’s MQB chassis will be further honed with a specially tuned suspension and steering system along with a more powerful set of brakes.

Aside for the three-door version of the new A3, the S3 moniker will also be applied on the five-door Sportback and the four-door sedan, both of which are expected to launch next year.

Photo Credits: CarPix for Carscoop

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