Audi has revealed the 395bhp RS3 Sportback and Sedan.

In the front, the cars get a wide RS bumper, redesigned Singleframe with honeycomb grille, and enlarged air intakes.

Flat, wedge-shaped LED head lights and LED taillights with dynamic turn signals come as standard, while those that opt for Matrix LED head lights will get darkened bezels that feature digital daytime running lights around their outer downturned angles.

Air outlets behind the front wheel arches further distinguish the car from the side. The front axle track has been widened by 33mm compared to the previous model. On the Sportback, the rear axle track has increased by 10mm.

The RS3 is standard-equipped with 19-inch cast wheels in a 10-Y spoke design. A redesigned RS-specific rear bumper with integrated diffuser and the RS exhaust system with two large oval tailpipes finish off the rear.

The new Audi RS3 models can be ordered in two exclusive RS colors: Kyalami green and Kemora grey. The roof of the Sedan can also be ordered in the contrasting colour Brilliant black for the first time.

Under the bonnet, the 2.5-litre five-cylinder now produces 395bhp and 500Nm of torque, propelling the car from zero to 100km/h in just 3.8 seconds. A seven-speed dual-clutch transmission will put all that power to the pavement, while a new fully variable flap control system now features in the exhaust system, broadening the sound characteristics even further.

The new Audi RS3 is also the first Audi model that comes standard-equipped with a torque splitter. An electronically controlled multiple disc clutch used on each of the drive shafts, it ensures that the right amount of torque is optimally distributed along the rear axle during dynamic driving.

The torque splitter increases the drive torque to the outer rear wheel with the higher wheel load, which significantly reduces the tendency to understeer.

Driven in 'RS Torque Rear' mode, the torque splitter will make controlled drifts on closed-off tracks possible by sending all power to the rear wheels, with up to 1,750Nm of torque per wheel possible.

Another 'RS Performance' mode meanwhile, uses a specific engine and transmission configuration and is precisely tailored to the use of semi-slick tyres. It will set the torque splitter to deliver a dynamic, sporty ride with as little understeer and oversteer as possible.

The cabin of the Audi RS3 gets the 12.3-inch Audi virtual cockpit plus as standard. In here, a carbon fibre instrument panel and RS sport seats with RS embossing and anthracite contrast stitching features. However, seat upholstery in fine Nappa leather with RS honeycomb stitching and glossy black, red, or, for the first time, green contrast stitching is available as an option.

Also on offer here are RS Design packages in red and green to match. They include special floor mats with contrast stitching and RS embroidery, as well as seatbelts with coloured edges. The Design package plus includes seat corners in red or green and a coloured accents on the air vents.