Compact, dynamic and aggressive, with its wide wings, redesigned bumpers and aerodynamic features, the Citroën DS3 WRC is clearly out to win.
The chassis is based on the DS3, which has been extensively modified to adapt the four-wheel drive transmission and McPherson suspension. A roll cage increases stiffness to ensure crew safety.
Compared with the previous generation of World Rally Cars, the 2011 WRC regulations come with huge changes under the bonnet. The Citroën DS3 WRC is powered by a 1,600 cm3, four-cylinder, turbocharged direct-injection engine. The use of direct injection is a first at this level of motorsport, opening up new possibilities for the development of racing engines, especially in terms of fuel consumption. Designed and built from start to finish by Citroën Racing, the engine develops 300 bhp.
Certified and supplied by Sadev, the six-speed sequential gearbox is coupled with front and rear differentials. Semi-automatic controls and central differential are now banned. Addressing these constraints, the engineers at Citroen Racing and Sadev sought to maximise performance and reliability by improving every detail.
The onboard electronics of the DS3 WRC draw upon the wealth of experience gained with the C4 WRC on which they are based. The multiplexed wiring harness, box-units and all control systems are designed by Citroen Racing. The source code of the internal software has been submitted to the FIA, which also has access to the engine and chassis data acquisition system
Citroën Racing is aware that safety can always be improved, so engineers aimed at increasing crew protection and comfort beyond the levels required by the regulations. For example, Citroën Racing has developed its own bucket seat.
The compact design of the DS3 WRC gives drivers an excellent view of the road. A colour LCD screen behind the steering wheel shows key information (engine speed, gear selected). Extensive studies were carried out on the positioning of the gearshift and handbrake levers, which are placed as close as possible to the steering wheel. The co-driver, who has a lower seat position to improve his centre of gravity, has his own screen, fixed to the transmission tunnel.