Audi’s RS3 Sportback will receive a power boost later this year which will make it the world’s fastest hot hatch.As expected, the RS3 hatch will receive Audi’s new-generation 2.5-litre turbocharged five-cylinder engine, lifting outputs from 270kW/465Nm to 294kW/480Nm and cutting two-tenths off the claimed 0-100km/h time, which now stands at a faintly ludicrous 4.1sec.

2017 Audi RS3 Sportback rear

Not only does the new engine help in a straight line, it should help in the corners, too. While very similar in capacity to the previous 2.5-litre turbo five-pot, switching from cast-iron to aluminium for the block has helped shave 26kg off the weight of the engine.

2017 Audi RS3 Sportback engine

Aside from the engine, the changes are relatively minor. There’s a subtle facelift front and rear, with new headlights, a redesigned grille and more aggressive front bar, while Audi’s latest toys make an appearance inside.

2017 Audi RS3 Sportback interior

The new Audi RS3 Sportback launches in Europe in August 2017 ahead of an expected local arrival in Q4 of this year.