Compact, dynamic and agressive, 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-strut suspension. A roll cage increases stiffness to ensure crew safety.
For the first time ever, Citroën Racing has designed all of the components of its engines, including the cylinder block and cylinder head. Housed in a machined aluminium block, the exquisitely crafted four-cylinder 1600cc engine complies with the requirements of the regulations, which stipulate in particular a minimum weight and a position for the centre of gravity.
Compared with older two-litre turbocharged engines, the reduction in capacity combined with the limited booster pressure results in a slight drop in power output, which is compensated by direct injection, whilst torque is pretty much halved.
Semi-automatic, steering wheel-mounted controls are outlawed since 2011, and have been replaced with a totally manual gearshift lever. Certified and supplied by Sadev, the six-speed sequential gearbox is coupled with front and rear differentials. The engineers at Citroën 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 by Citroën Racing. The multiplexed wiring harness, box-units and all control systems are designed by Citroën 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 the safety can always be improved, so engineers aimed at increasing xrew protection and confort beyond the levels required by the regulations. For exemple, Citroën Racing has developped is own bucket seat.
The compact design of the DS3 WRC gives drivers an excellent view of the road. A colour LCD sreen 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.