DS3 WRC (France, 2010)

Citroën unveiled its DS3 WRC, the challenger for the 2011 season of FIA’s World Rally Championship, in Paris. This DS3 WRC was the first car produced under new regulations from FIA, which have lead to a revolution under the vehicle’s bonnet. The 2011 Citroën rally challenger is powered by a 1600cc turbocharged direct injection engine. With the a direct injection engine making its first appearance at this level of motorsport, it offers new possibilities for the development of racing engines, especially in terms of fuel consumption. Developed and built by Citroën Racing the new engine has an output of 300 bhp. The engine is matted with six-speed sequential gearbox coupled with front and rear differentials, certified and supplied by Sadev.

FIA has also defined the characteristics (dimensions, weight, price, etc.) of the car’s main components in order to reduce and control the costs. Based on the DS3 production model the body shell of DS3 WRC was modified to adapt the four-wheel drive transmission and the McPherson-strut suspension system. A roll cage guarantees the safety of the driver pair and enhances the sturdiness of the car. The body of the WRC version of the DS3 has received more accentuated curves than the original model, after fine-tuning during extensive wind tunnel testing. In order to respect the maximum authorised width of 1,820mm and to accommodate the 18-inch wheels, the wings and the bumpers have been redesigned. Other changes include an aerodynamic splitter in on the front bumper and a rear spoiler has been attached to the tailgate.