The covers come off of the 2015 Audi RS3 Sportback

Audi has taken the wraps off of the new 2015 RS3 Sportback, which is supposed to make its public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March before going on sale later in the summer. The German automaker has described the vehicle as a “world-beating car” with a “class-conquering engine” with more power than even the BMW M135i or  Mercedes A45 AMG.

The 2015 Audi RS3 Sportback boasts a class-leading power output of 270kW thanks to the updated 2.5-litre TFSI five-cylinder engine that rests under the hood and will be able to accelerate to 100km/h in just 4.3 seconds with a top speed of 260 km/h (155 mph). The engine is capable of delivering a total of 367 hp and 343 lb-ft of torque.

“There is a long tradition of five-cylinder engines at Audi,” said Audi boss Ulrich Hackenberg, as quoted by CarScoops. “In the 80s, they turned Audi into a sporty brand, both in motor sports and in production. The new Audi RS 3 Sportback features the latest generation of our 2.5 liter, five-cylinder engine – the most powerful production engine in the modular transverse matrix.”

Despite the impressive amount of performance that the RS3 Sportback’s engine provides, it still sips a miniscule 8.1-litres per kilometer with CO2 emissions of 189 grams per kilometer. Mated to the engine is a seven-speed S tronic transmission that’s capable of shifting faster than in the outgoing car. The transmission then uses Audi’s staple quattro system with torque vectoring to funnel powers into all four wheels, which provides maximum driver enjoyment and involvement.

A specific sports suspension can be ordered for the vehicle along with Audi’s magnetic ride suspension in to achieve maximum comfort or sporting ability. For customers looking for ultimate stopping power will also be able to choose carbon-ceramic brakes, although these will undoubtedly cost a hefty sum when the vehicle is released.

Speaking of the RS3 Sportback’s release, Europeans can expect the vehicle sometime next summer, while Australians can expect it at the end of the year. Audi is still reportedly debating whether or not to bring the vehicle to the United States, however. The five-door hatch is currently the only bodystyle, but rumors suggest that a sedan could be in the works.