Audi has revealed an even more powerful A3 plug-in hybrid model.

Badged A3 45 TFSIe, it arrives as the most powerful plug-in hybrid version of the firm’s famous hatchback thanks to 242bhp and 400Nm of torque.

That power is created by a 1.4-litre petrol engine which is then linked with an electric motor and batteries. Power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic gearbox, while those batteries – measuring 13kW in capacity – are located under the rear seats. Audi claims that a full charge can be achieved in around five hours via a domestic outlet.

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Colour: Glacier white

In total it should return up to 39.1 miles on electric power alone and though Audi has yet to disclose any information about emissions or economy, the firm has stated that the 45 TFSIe will go from 0-60mph in 6.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 144mph.

In all, it offers more power than the existing A3 plug-in hybrid – the 40 TFSIe – while black accents, privacy glass and red brake callipers help to differentiate the two.

Different driving modes allow the driver to tailor the way the car uses its power, too. Auto Hybrid mode, for example, intelligently uses both electric and petrol power depending on the situation in order to achieve the best possible efficiency. Auto Hold and Battery Hold modes, meanwhile, retain the charge in the batteries for use at a later time, relying on the petrol engine for drive instead.

Audi has said that the new A3 45 TFSIe will cost from €41,440 (£37,830) when it arrives in dealerships early next year.