The latest Plus models Audi added to its lineup — the TT-RS Plus and RS3 Plus — have both enjoyed some success, so the German automaker decided to treat another model to the Plus package.

The next model to receive this treatment is the S3. Initial rumors about the model suggest it will be offered with a new four-cylinder turbo engine currently under development by Volkswagen Group. This new engine is rumored to deliver about 375 horsepower and 368 pound-feet of torque, and will put the upcoming S3 Plus between the standard S3 and the upcoming RS3.

Audi officials said that this new engine comes as a response to the 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine offered by small Mercedes models. like the A45 AMG and CLA45 AMG. Of course, do not expect this new engine to be used only in the S3 Plus, as rumors suggest Volkswagen will also place this engine in the upcoming Scirocco and a new Golf R Evo, which is rumored to be unveiled in April at the Beijing Motor Show.

The rumblings in the industry lead us to believe that the new Audi S3 Plus will be unveiled by the end of the year.

Click past the jump to read more about the 2015 Audi S3 Plus.

*Image Note: The above image is of the current S3, not the S3 Plus.