Development of the new generation Audi RS3 continues, as the hot compact model was spied attacking the apexes on the Nurburgring a few days ago in both Sportback (that’s hatchback) and Sedan body styles.
Like the prototype snapped by our man behind the camera earlier this month, the five-door model had the front, sides and rear ends covered up by vinyl wraps, hiding the new design that will visually set it apart from the regular new-gen A3s.
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Once the camo comes off though, the RS3 will reveal a more aggressively styled body kit, with wide fenders, new bumpers, bespoke grille and roof-mounted spoiler. The twin oval exhausts will be another signature feature, alongside large and model-specific wheels. The front of the RS3 Sedan will look the same, while the rear will adorn the four-door A3’s boot with a spoiler.
Inside, we’ll see body hugging front sports seats, RS badges on the gearshift lever and steering wheel, specific graphics for the digital dials and infotainment system and more exclusive upholstery and trim.
The 2.5-liter turbocharged five-cylinder engine is understood to soldier on, in an updated form, and should pump out around 420 PS (414 HP / 309 kW) and 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) of torque, directed to the quattro permanent all-wheel drive system through a dual-clutch automatic transmission. The top spec Performance variant is believed to bump the output to 450 PS (444 HP / 331 kW).
While the RS3 Sportback will be kept away from North America, the RS3 Sedan will make its way over here. Both models should be unveiled before the end of the year.