MTM builds 186mph Audi RS3

German Audi tuning specialist MTM has released its latest package for Audi’s brawny five-cylinder hot hatchback, the RS3.

Already one of the most powerful hatchbacks on the market, with 362bhp and once de-restricted, a 174mph top speed, MTM has released further potential from the 2.5-litre unit.

MTM’s tuning package tweaks the RS3’s electronic brain to liberate 429bhp between 5800-6800rpm and 446lb ft of torque from 1925-5750rpm, as well as disabling the 155mph speed limiter.

It’s abetted further by a freer-flowing cat-back stainless steel exhaust system, finished with a pair of oval chrome tailpipes. The modifications enable the RS3 to hit 186mph – tyre choice permitting, reaching 62mph in 3.9 seconds (down from 4.3sec) and 124mph in 14.1 seconds, with Audi’s seven-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission.

MTM’s demonstrator vehicle has subtle styling, but gives a nod to its extra performance with a set of 8.5x19in MTM Nardo alloy wheels, and Michelin Pilot Super Sport tyres. These shroud a set of 380mm MTM brake discs.

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There’s also a subtle front spoiler in carbonfibre, a rear diffuser and wing mirror caps (also carbonfibre) and a carbonfibre engine cover will also soon be available. MTM performance suspensions subtly lowers the car.

The cost of all these changes isn’t cheap, adding 22,344 Euros (around £15,700) to the base price of an RS3 (currently £40,795). That does look better value however when comparing its performance to that of the new turbocharged Porsche 911 Carerra S, which pairs a 3.7-second 0-62mph time and 190mph top speed – each marginal improvements – for £85,857.

Few will cross-shop the two of course, but it’s illustrative of the levels of performance now available in the hot hatch sector. And it may not stop there – MTM CEO Roland Mayer says the company is developing versions with ‘further power and torque gains’.

That car is expected to make 500bhp or more – which could make MTM’s Audi RS3 a 200mph car.