A five-cylinder 2.5 TFSI provides propulsion for both the facelifted Audi RS3 Sportback and the new Audi RS3 Sedan, which is the first compact notchback Audi with an RS badge. It delivers 395bhp - 33bhp more than its predecessor - and is 26kg lighter, thanks in part to its aluminium crankcase. Its maximum torque of 480Nm is available at engine speeds as low as 1,700rpm and remains constant up to 5,850rpm.

Both compact RS models sprint from 0-100km/h in only 4.1 seconds. Immense tractive power is accompanied by the unmistakable sound of the five-cylinder engine. This comes from having the ignition alternate between directly adjacent cylinders and widely-spaced ones. On request, Audi can increase the electronically-limited top speed from 250km/h to 280km/h. In the NEDC cycle, the RS3 Sedan and RS3 Sportback both boast a fuel consumption figure of 12km/L.

An S-tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and quattro permanent all-wheel drive transfer the power of the five cylinders to the road. Meanwhile, an electro-hydraulic multi-plate clutch distributes the drive torque variably between both axles. The sportier the driving, the faster and more often a large share of the torque reaches the rear axle.

The quattro management is integrated as a standard feature in the Audi drive select dynamic handling system, as is the steering, S-tronic, engine management, adjustable exhaust flaps, and the optional RS sport suspension plus with adaptive damper control. The driver can individually vary the operation of these components between the comfort, auto, dynamic and individual modes. Handling is perfected by an Electronic Stabilisation Control with wheel-selective torque control and a sport mode with RS-specific tuning.

Price as of press time (inclusive of COE)

Audi RS3 Sedan - $303,550

The Audi RS3 Sportback is still pending homologation.