2012 Audi RS3

2012 Audi RS3

2012 Audi RS3

2012 Audi RS3

The RS 3 arrives with a unique front fascia, sporting larger air inlets to keep the car’s engine and brakes cool. The overall look isn’t radically different from the standard A3, but the changes are enough to let you no this isn’t just any ordinary hatchback.

Beneath the RS 3′s hood resides the same 2.5L turbocharged five-cylinder used in the TT RS. Power is rated at 340 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque, but the RS 3 Sportback still returns a respectable 25.85mpg.

That power is routed through Audi’s seven-speed S tronic gearbox, arriving at all four wheels via Quattro all-wheel drive. The RS 3′s performance is brisk, with the sprint from 0-62 taking just 4.6 seconds. The RS 3 Sportback tops out at 155mph.

In addition to the new engine, the RS 3 also sports plenty of suspension tweaks, including a one inch lower ride height and a wider track. The hatch’s brakes have also been upgraded.