The Audi RS3 is coming, and we've got the proof thanks to these spy pics taken by our snapper at the Nürburgring

The Audi TTRS is currently the only car in the German brand’s line-up to feature the stupendous new 340hp 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine.
But developing a whole new engine for just one car doesn’t make financial sense, especially in today’s cash poor climate. And that’s why this innocent looking S3 Sportback mule has been snapped by our spy photographer at the Nürburgring.
It’s the first RS3 mule, and the bodywork hides the underpinnings from the TTRS, including the engine and quattro drivetrain.
And while we know plenty about the TTRS’ powertrain, Audi is currently working out just how much power and performance to give the new car.
The forthcoming Golf R20, which is due to debut at this year’s Nürburgring 24-hour race, will have 270hp. An RS3 would need more than that, but less than the TTRS, so we reckon the RS3 will have around 310hp. That’s enough to distance it from the VW and TT, and also just enough to make it more powerful that the Ford Focus RS too.

 

No widebody?

 

That is widebodied, no?

 

WOW... 340hp of a 2.5 5 cylinder? It must be F/I....

 

o0o me likey always had a soft spot for hatchbacks though.

 

The fenders look similar to the A3's. Unless that is widebodied and my eyes are deceiving me.

 

^ ^ ^ you could be right. The blue car looks a hell of a lot better than a regular A3, at least. Haha

 

^ I agree, the power of sport bumpers.

 

Its so beautiful. Blue has always been my fav. color, and that is one reason why?

 

it's just a drivetrain mule. That's why no widebody yet.