Citroën is finalising two hot versions of the DS3 to cement that model’s position as its motorsport vehicle.
The DS3 WRC has been caught testing on asphalt in France, with Citroën’s six-time rally champ Sébastien Loeb behind the wheel.
See the pics of the two DS3 rally models in testing
It has been designed for new rally rules next year that simplify transmissions and downsize engines from 2.0 litres to turbocharged 1.6-litre units.
However, it’s likely that the car in these images is fitted with a detuned version of the 2.0-litre turbo used in the existing C4 WRC.
Citroën and Ford have both been evaluating next year’s challengers with current powerplants in recent months.
Further down the motorsport ladder, Citroën Racing — the Satory-based operation that’s responsible for all of the firm’s on-track activities — has released details of its club-level DS3 rally car.
Built to R3T rules, the DS3 R3 has a tuned version of the 1.6-litre turbo engine from the road car, now with 210bhp and 258lb ft, and a semi-auto sequential ’box. It will be sold to amateur rally competitors as a kit or in ready-to-drive form.
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Re: Citroën DS3 WRC: first pics
A few years back i was at the Scottish motor show (when it was still decent!) and saw a WRC replica of the then Xsara. 215HP turbo FWD,wide body kit,Rally wheels,exhaust,huge brakes etc only thing is all the sponsors over every square inch!!
Good looking in principal but never did see a single 1 on the road. You would have to be an attention seeking tosser to drive this with all the sponsors on it!!
Re: Citroën DS3 WRC: first pics
Off topic, but i'm glad I just read this for I am often in Spain. Guardamar/Torrevieja to be precise. I will look out for these C5's. I wasn't aware that Spain were using camera cars to be honest.
As for the DS3 WRC, I was always miffed that there was no Xsara WRC replica on sale. There were some aftermarket bodykits, but I was dubious about modding a Xsara. If there had have been a proper factory WRC replica I would have traded in my old Saxo VTR for one. I love the DS3 and see it as a proper replacement for the old Saxo VTR/VTS twins. I really hope Citroen learn to capitalise on racing success and build this car. It will sell!
Re: Citroën DS3 WRC: first pics
"i'm interested, but did the discusion months ago when the new regulations came out."
Sorry but I can't find the link. Was their interesting points made on the differences as they relate to rally car performance/times, ease of driving, safety? thanks, J