With 416 HP at its disposal, the Mercedes-AMG A45 S is currently the most powerful premium hot hatchback on the market. Audi however will make sure that their latest RS3 Sportback will give the Merc a proper run for its money.
The 2021 RS3 will utilize an updated version of the 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine, albeit with a little more power so as to keep up with the A45 S.
Word has it we can expect 414 HP (420 PS) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm) of torque, with everything going to all four corners through Audi’s quattro all-wheel drive system. There’s also talk of a Performance version, which could get as much as 444 HP (450 PS).
Watch: Mercedes A45, Audi RS3, VW Golf R And BMW M2 Face Off – Who Are You Backing?
While there’s no doubt that the all-new RS3 will be fast, we still don’t have a crystal clear picture regarding its appearance. Thankfully, X-Tomi Design felt up to the challenge, taking the latest A3 and making it look wider, meaner and quicker.
We can safely assume that just like the render, the real RS3 will also come with larger wheels than the regular A3, bigger brakes, a more aggressive-looking front bumper, chunkier wheel arches, side skirts plus all the stuff at the back we can’t see right now – like the rear diffuser, roof spoiler and dual oval exhausts.
Inside, the RS3 Sportback will feature bucket seats, sporty trim options, a typical flat-bottom steering wheel (possibly with Alcantara) and RS badges.
Right now, it’s unclear when Audi might deem it appropriate to unveil the all-new RS3. It could happen before the end of the year, just as easily as it could happen in 2021.
