Audi A3 TDI Clubsport Quattro concept

Past the flamboyant front end sits a 2.0-litre TDI engine developing 165kW and a massive 450Nm.

This results in a power-to-displacement ratio of 84kW per litre, and torque-to-displacement ratio of 229Nm per litre while still complying with Euro 5 emissions standards – figures which comparable petrol engines are simply unable to match.

Coupled with Audi's trademark Quattro all-wheel-drive system and a six-speed manual gearbox, this oiler covers 0 to 100km/h in just 6.6 seconds and will go on to a top speed of 240km/h.

Audi assures us this is no ordinary diesel engine - sounding better than it looks courtesy of its sonorous exhaust, I think I'll wait on YouTube to confirm that one.

The exterior is dominated by the large DTM-style aerokit, rear spoiler and the wheel arch extensions housing enormous 20-inch wheels with stopping power provided by six-piston brake calipers and ceramic discs up front.

Racing bucket seats, a flat-bottomed steering wheel and an open gear lever gate in aluminum form the highlights of the interior.

While production plans have not been revealed, Audi's TDI past with the Touareg V10 and R8 V12 make it a tantilising prospect.