2017 Audi RS 3 Sportback is the most powerful 5-cyl in the world

The updated 2017 Audi RS 3 Sportback now sports the most powerful production five-cylinder engine in the world, delivering 294kW of power and 480Nm of torque from its 2.5-litre TFSI mill – 24kW and 15Nm more than its predecessor.

The new engine is also 26kg lighter than the old engine, thanks to its aluminium crankcase and other features, enabling the new RS 3 Sportback to sprint from 0 to 100km/h in a mere 4.1 seconds, while top speed is an electronically limited 250km/h. On request, Audi will increase this to 280km/h.

Like before, power is transferred to the road via the S tronic seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and Quattro all-wheel drive system. It rolls on 19-inch cast wheels shod in 235/35 tyres.

Outside, the updated RS 3 Sportback brings new LED headlights, restyled front and rear bumper, and gloss black honeycomb grille.

Inside, Audi’s virtual cockpit display is available as an option, which comes with a special RS screen that shifts the tachometer to the centre, flanked on either side by torque, g-force and tyre pressure readings. When the transmission is operating in manual mode, a scale with a colour background prompts the driver to use the steering wheel paddle or selector lever to upshift when approaching maximum rpm.

Elsewhere, the RS 3 Sporback is equipped with sport seats in black Nappa leather as standard.

The MMI system has also been upgraded with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity along with navigation system with Google Earth and Google Street View.

The new Audi RS 3 Sportback will arrive in Australia in the third quarter of 2017. Pricing and specification details will be announced closer to launch.