Key Points: Kyalami Green Exterior Paint, Satin Paint Protective Film (PPF) Applied to Whole Car, Panoramic Glass Roof

The Audi RS3 is a high-performance derivative of the A3, powered by a 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine producing 395 hp and 369 lb ft of torque, driving the Quattro four-wheel drive system through a seven-speed dual-clutch S Tronic automatic transmission. The result is a 0-60 mph acceleration time of just 3.8 seconds.

New on the fourth generation RS3 is the RS ‘torque splitter’ rear differential, which variably distributes torque between the rear wheels using two electronically controlled multi-plate clutch packs, one for each driveshaft. It can push additional torque to the outer rear wheel to help turn the car, or there is a setting that sends up to 100% of the power to the outside rear wheel to aid controlled drifting.  

Other changes over the previous RS3 include a 5mm shorter wheelbase and an additional 38mm added to the front track, while the rear track is 1mm narrower.

As standard, every model comes equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control, cruise control, Audi's 12.3-inch Virtual cockpit with RS-specific display, and a 10.1-inch MMI Navigation plus infotainment system.

In the range-topping ‘Vorsprung’ trim level, the RS3 has its top speed raised from 155 mph to 174 mph and features a raft of desirable options, including RS adaptive suspension, a power-operated tailgate, a head-up display, a panoramic sunroof, privacy glass, electrically adjustable heated front seats with memory-function, the Driver Assistance pack and the Comfort and Sound pack.