Things are certainly hotting up at Audi as the high performance subsidiary of the German car maker, otherwise known as Audi Sport, is about to release new versions of the RS 3 in Sportback and Saloon body styles.

And the big news is they will be powered by 400bhp engines which sets a new standard in the compact car segment.

Both models are now available to order – the Sportback is priced from £44,300 while the saloon costs from £45,250.

Beneath the bonnet is the most powerful five-cylinder engine to be used in a series production Audi, providing a blisteringly-quick 0-62mph sprint time of 4.1 seconds and a possible top speed of 174mph.

Power comes from a new, lighter 2.5-litre turbo TFSI engine which delivers up 480Nm of torque alongside its 400bhp output, and makes all of it available at between 1,700 and 5,850 rpm. In addition, there is a seven-speed S tronic dual-clutch transmission which channels the power to the car’s quattro permanent all-wheel drive system.

The front track of the new RS 3 models is 20mm wider than a standard A3 and the front wheel arches are flared giving it a much wider stance. The new RS 3 also comes with 19-inch designer alloy wheels.

Other features specific to the RS models include a honeycomb single frame grille with matt aluminium surround, rear spoilers and deep side skirts enhancing the profile.

Move inside, and the RS 3 boasts sport seats covered in black Nappa leather along with a leather and Alcantara flat-bottomed RS steering wheel and Audi’s virtual cockpit.

Options for the new RS 3 include the Audi phone box which can charge smartphones on the go, plus a pitch perfect 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system producing 705 Watts of power.