Rather than presenting it as simply a vehicle, Audi is taking a bold approach with the new model, suggesting ownership will provide access to an exclusive club. "[It] offers our customers an attractive introduction to the RS world," said Stephan Winkelmann, CEO of Audi Sport GmbH.
However, the car's performance figures — 394bhp, 480Nm torque and a 0-100kph time of just 4.1 seconds — will be more than enough to convince most keen drivers that the RS 3 is something they need in their automotive lives.
The new model has 33bhp more than the outgoing RS and is faster off the mark, yet at its heart there still beats what is essentially the same five-cylinder 2.5-litre turbocharged engine. Even if it has been seriously overhauled. But as well as eking out even more power, Audi's engineers have managed to make the new car 26kg lighter.
As standard, the car will come with an electronically limited top speed of 250kph. However, as it sports the RS badge, clients will be able to request the limiter's removal. That will take the top speed up to 280kph.
With those sorts of numbers involved, it's a good thing that the car comes with Quattro intelligent all-wheel drive as standard so that drivers run out of road before they run out of grip. Continuing the sporty feel is a seven-speed dual-clutch paddle shift transmission, multi-link suspension, a 25mm lower ride height and a suite of telematics and lap timing systems integrated into the infotainment system for those that really want to stretch the car's capabilities on the track.
While for those that are going to spend most of their time behind the wheel negotiating a daily commute, the car comes with traffic jam assist, and a cross traffic assist for the rear that monitors for cars and other obstacles that could be in the way when pulling out of a parking space.
All of which puts it ahead of its closest direct rivals — the BMW 140i and the Mercedes A45 4Matic — by a redesigned grille's length.
The 2017 Audi RS 3 Sportback will make its global debut at the 2017 Geneva Motor Show which opens to the public on March 9. The car will be available to order from the summer when prices will also be announced.
