The fact that the upcoming Audi RS3, due in 2015, is getting in shape at the Nurburgring->ke999 track is not surprising. However, the video you're about to watch suggests Audi->ke14 isn't ready to give up on its 2.5-liter TFSI engine just yet.

You see, last time the RS3 Sportback was caught stretching its legs in Germany our spy photographers noted the car no longer sounded like one that's powered by a five-cylinder mill. The scoop only added to the many rumors claiming Audi is downsizing to a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-banger, but this new video suggests otherwise.

Judging by the notes coming out of that dual-exhaust system, the fact that this mule carries a five-cylinder engine under the hood is undeniable, but what are we up against here? Is this mule using an older powertrain to run some chassis and suspension tests or is the new RS3 coming with an updated 2.5-liter TFSI?

Well, there are a few scenarios that make sense for the five-pot to remain on offer. Maybe the Germans managed to squeeze a bit more power out of it while making it more fuel efficient, or we could be looking at less horsepower aided by a lighter RS3. Either way, with the mill bundled with a six-speed S Tronic gearbox and Audi's brilliant quattro all-wheel drive, the RS3 is bound to make an impression no matter how many cylinders pump under the hood.

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