Audi RS3

These are the pictures that prove the A3 is ready to recieve the famous RS badge! Only a month after the German manufacturer unveiled its flagship TT-RS at the Geneva Motor Show, we have conclusive proof that a performance flagship A3 is also on the way.

Power comes from the same 2.5-litre, five-cylinder turbo unit as in the TT-RS, delivers a staggering 335bhp and 450Nm of torque to all four tyres via the firm’s quattro 4WD transmission.

It would enable the Audi to complete the 0-62mph sprint in around five seconds and hit a top speed of 155mph – automatically cementing its place as one of the fastest cars in its class. However, so that it doesn’t tread on the toes of the TT-RS, the RS3's power could be limited to around 300bhp.

So far, nothing has been confirmed officially. But when the RS3 does reach production, a price tag of around £35,000 is likely –  making it a premium rival to the Ford Focus RS and BMW 135i.