Last month it was a rumour but now, thanks to some eagle-eyed photographers, it seems the Audi RS3 may be closer to the showroom than we think.

Our friends over at MotorAuthority have got their paws on a set of images that they say depicts an RS3 mule undergoing trials at Germany’s legendary Nurburgring Nordschliefe.

The mule is based upon a S3 Sportback, however that doesn’t necessarily mean the RS3 will come in five-door flavour. The front cheek vents have been blocked off, however it’s unclear whether it’s to hide some vital component or whether it’s just to simulate the aerodynamic properties of the RS3’s new bumper moulding.

Other than that though, we’ve no way of knowing whether the Audi TT RS’ turbocharged five-cylinder donk and quattro all-wheel-drive system lurk beneath that unassuming bodywork. We’ll be keeping our eyes peeled for more, but until then head over to MotorAuthority and check out their shots.