Audi is reportedly working on a hotter version of its A3 compact to slot between the S3 and the upcoming RS3.
It might seem like Audi has the performance market pretty well covered between the S3 and RS3, but the German automaker is said to be prepping a new S3 Plus model that will split the difference between its pocket performers.
The S3 Plus will use a hot rodded version of the 2.0L turbocharged engine found under the hood of the S3. Currently being developed under the leadership of VW engine guru Friedrich Eichler, the turbocharged four-cylinder will reportedly develop 375 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque, representing a significant jump over the 300 horsepower, 280 lb-ft of torque S3.


Given the S3 Plus' position as the middle child in the A3 performance lineup, it's safe to assume that the RS3 will hit the ground with more than 375 horsepower.
However, 375 horsepower is probably about the limit of what the 2.0L can handle reliably, so look for the RS3 to employ a five-cylinder turbocharged engine. Audi's hottest five-pot currently makes 360 horsepower and 343 lb-ft of torque, but the automaker says the mill still has more to give.
"There will be no overlap because there is a lot of development available to the five-cylinder engine," a senior Audi engineering source told Australia's Motoring.
It's possible that VW could show off the new engine at the Worthesee festival in May, but it seems more likely that the automaker will wait to showcase the high-powered engine in a concept vehicle at either this year's Paris Motor Show or Los Angeles auto show. It could be a couple of years, however, until the RS3 arrives in showrooms.