Audi has revealed pricing and specification for the all-new RS 3 Sportback, ahead of it going on sale next month.

The model features the Quattro permanent all-wheel-drive system and the most powerful production five-cylinder engine in Audi RS history; a 362bhp 2.5-litre TFSI variant with a 0-62mph of 4.3 seconds and a 155mph governed top speed, which can be raised to 174mph on request.

Mated to a faster-shifting S tronic twin-clutch gearbox, the new five-door, five-seat Sportback is EU6 compliant and is capable of returning up to 34.8mpg, with CO2 emissions of 189g/km.

Options include a sports exhaust upgrade where the driver can control the volume and depth of sound via the Audi drive select adaptive dynamics system, and Audi’s magnetic ride adaptive damper system to further level out ride and handling.

The exterior sees a high-gloss black, honeycomb-look single frame grille with pronounced air intakes, LED headlamps and daytime running lights, 19-inch alloy wheels, flared front wings, chiselled sills, roof spoiler, a re-modelled rear bumper and high-gloss black diffuser insert with oval RS tailpipes.

Inside features sports seats upholstered in Nappa leather with contrasting stitching in rock grey, flat-bottomed RS multifunction sports steering wheel with leather and Alcantara trim, stainless steel pedals, Alcantara door inserts, plus, a boost pressure indicator, an oil temperature gauge and a lap timer.

Standard equipment includes MMI radio with its electrically folding colour screen, navigation preparation, Audi Music Interface iPod connection, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, front seat heating and the parking system plus with acoustic and visual guidance.

The all-new second generation RS 3 Sportback goes on sale next month and is priced at £39,950, with first deliveries expected in the summer.

Check out our image gallery of the model here.