The RS3 would sit above the Audi S3 (2009 model above) as the flagship of the A3 range.

While Ford of Europe’s ballistic Focus RS isn’t likely to make its way ‘Downunder’, the 2012 Audi RS3 would seem a more likely option for Aussie hot hatch enthusiasts.

Based on the upcoming 2012 Audi A3, there are no official images yet of how it might look, but there’s no shortage of rumours on the power and technology front.

UK rag Autocar speculates that the RS3 will feature the same twin-turbo 2.5 litre five-cylinder engine found in the 2009 Audi TT RS, developing 250kW (335hp) and 450Nm (332lb-ft) of torque.

With the RS3 likely to weigh around the same as the TT RS’ 1416kg, the RS3 should be capable of a 0-100km/h sprint of 4.6 seconds, with a top speed of over 280km/h.

Mated to a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, the 2012 Audi RS3 should pose a strong challenge for the likes of the Ford Focus RS, Renault Megané 250 and the BMW 135i Coupé.