On the same day that Mercedes reveals its 360-hp A45 AMG hot hatch, Audi releases the new S3 Sportback. It is a serious bit of kit this car, but the A45 has such bold specs that it makes the S3 look like a Honda Civic.

The Audi boasts a 2.0 TFSI engine with 221 kW (300 hp). 380 NM (280.27 lb-ft) of torque, and it goes from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.0 seconds. Top speed is electronically governed at 250 km/h (155.34 mph), and average fuel consumption is 6.9 liters per 100 km (34.09 US mpg).

The drivetrain includes a quattro permanent all-wheel drive and S-tronic transmission, and the chassis features S suspension and progressive steering system. 18-inch wheels, large brake discs, and Audi drive select are also included.

Even though the Audi S3 Sportback has all the bases covered for a proper hot hatch, it is already outdone by AMG’s beast, which is faster, better looking, and all in all, more exciting. The A45 will be more expensive, but the S3 is not going to be exactly cheap either. So you are better with the Benz anyway.

The S3 makes its official debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March.