A whole suite of changes are being made to Audi’s compact performance model, which is set to be fully revealed over the next few weeks. 

The RS3 will now utilise a new torque splitter that will replace the old multi-plate clutch and rear differential that was used on previous RS3 models. This change will enable the car to divide power between the rear wheels independently, reducing understeer when cornering. 

The system also allows drivers to switch the car into RS Torque Rear mode. When doing so, the engine sends all of the available torque to the rear wheels and allows the car to ‘drift’ when desired. 

The suspension has also been overhauled, with the RS3’s ride height dropped some 10 millimetres over the regular S3 and 25 millimetres over the standard A3. It arrives alongside a new damper system and upgraded brake discs and calipers. 

The RS3 is powered by the same 394bhp 2.5-litre five-cylinder engine that you’d find in the old RS3 and though peak power is the same, it arrives some 250rpm earlier so acceleration feels even more urgent. In fact, 0-60mph now takes just 3.6 seconds.