Bearing the RS badge, Audi's updated RS3 Sportback has been designed to beat off all super-hot hatch competition. And in that most crucial area of sheer brute performance – it is a complete success. But how well does it fare in other departments?

It could well be the case that most RS3 buyers are not terribly concerned with other departments, so let's look first at its under-the-bonnet credentials.

Engine

The 362bhp generated by the RS3's 2.5 litre five-cylinder turbocharged engine speaks for itself. Boffins over at Mercedes can only offer 355bhp with their A45 AMG, while BMW's engineers deliver just 322bhp with their M135i. The RS3 also easily beats the 320bhp of the forthcoming Ford Focus RS.

Acceleration

Lovers of acceleration will adore the 0-62mph benchmark of 4.3 seconds, beating not only the A45 AMG but also Audi's own 4.2-litre V8 R8 supercar.

Speed

For those who can find a suitable track, a top (limited) speed of 155mph awaits. However, if buyers ask nicely, Audi can de-limit their RS3 so it can reach 174mph.

Potholes

There's no denying that Audi have built this car for speed and performance. And if that's all you’re looking for, then it's a winner. The trouble is, with many of Britain's roads having not been repaired since the days of Claudius, it may not be easy for the RS3 owner to get their jollies. According to many reviewers, ride comfort is wanting – even with the optional £2,495 dynamic package plus, featuring 'magnetic ride'.

Practicality

In other practical aspects, the car is fairly average. Fitting a month's food shopping in here is possible if you fold the rear seats down, whereupon you'll get 1,120 litres of space. But with the seats up you'll only access 280 litres – which is 100 litres less than in the basic A3.

Price

At nearly £40,000 before options, the RS3 is not cheap – and is £1,760 more than an A45 AMG.

However, for those who seek out that shiny four-ringed logo, price may not be too much of an issue. Nor will how it handles potholes or a trip to Tesco.

Reigning Super-Hot-Hatch

Until Volkswagen’s 395bhp Golf R400 arrives on these shores next year, the Audi RS3 is quite simply the hottest of super-hot hatchbacks available in the UK right now.

 

  • Price: £39,955

 

 

  • Engine: 2.5-litre 5cyl turbo

 

 

  • Power/torque: 362bhp/465Nm

 

 

  • Transmission: Seven-speed S Tronic, all-wheel drive

 

 

  • 0-62mph: 4.3 seconds

 

 

  • Top speed: 174mph

 

 

  • Economy/CO2: 34.9mpg/189g/km

 

 

  • On sale: Now