A limited run of just 250 right-hand-drive five-door Audi RS3s are to be built following customer demand.

At the same price as the three-door, the distinctive Sportback will use the same turbocharged five-cylinder TFSI engine, which pushes out 336bhp, 332lb.ft, 212g/km of CO2 and a 0-62mph sprint of 4.6 seconds.

Seven speeds are on tap through a twin-clutch DSG gearbox, which in turn drives all four wheels with a constantly-variable torque split according to conditions. The minimum power that is sent to the rear wheels is around 15%.

At 1,575kg the RS3 Sportback boasts a power to weight ratio of 213bhp per tonne, which is enough to see it limited to a 155mph top speed. Attributes like a vermicular graphite engine block and carbon-fibre reinforced polymer front wings keep weight lower than it would otherwise be.

Unusually, the front tyres are wider than the rears, at 235/35 and 225/35 respectively. The wider fronts serve dual purposes in providing greater traction in the instant before the quattro system diverts more power to the rear wheels, and also in providing extra cornering grip.

Regardless of tyre width 19-inch wheels are standard, along with leather upholstery and a choice of dashboard inlays. RS-specific instruments mark out the ca's status, while a special version of Audi's Driver Information System including boost pressure, oil temperature and a lap timer.

As with the rest of the RS range, buyers can choose any colour they like. Five factory-standard colours are offered, but an infinite spectrum is available on request.

Prices will start from £39,930 on the road, but with an extensive options and customisation list available most RS3 Sportbacks are likely to cost more.