Citroen DS3 Racing is go - almost

How quickly things change. Only three months ago, Citroen's local importer, Ateco Automotive, indicated the hot version of its new DS3 -- the DS3 Racing -- was not likely to make it to Australia.

With supply and demand issues the big factor, the limited-edition hi-po DS3, along with the turbodiesel HDi version, was ruled out of local contention. Australian importer for the brand, Ateco bluntly stated at the local launch of the DS3 in September that Australia would miss out on both models.

Now, for the DS3 Racing version that position has changed, with Ateco's recent announcement that the hot hatch is back on the agenda.

Yet to be confirmed, the DS3 Racing is nevertheless more than just a tick on Citroen Australia's wish list.

"Of course we want to see the DS3 Racing in Australia. Why should the Europeans have all the fun?" said Miles Williams, General Manager of Citroen Australia.

The 152kW DS3 Racing, like other DS3 models, aims at the likes of MINI Cooper S (it uses the same 1.6-litre turbo engine) and is presented accordingly with liberal applications of carbon fibre through the body (air diffuser, front spoiler, side skirts, wing extensions) and a recalibrated suspension with wider front and rear tracks, lower ride height and hunky 18-inch wheels with 215/40R18 tyres. The brakes employ four-piston Brembo calipers up front, as well as bigger rotors, to help cope with the added performance.

The engine was developed by Citroen Racing, and gets significant power and torque increases that come in part from the higher, 2.2 bar turbo boost, a modified exhaust and a re-mapping of the engine management computer.

Inside, the DS3 Racing gets special bucket seats up front, rear parking sensors, an electro chromatic interior mirror, automatic headlamps and automatic windscreen wipers are all included.

According to Ateco spokesman Edward Rowe, the DS3 Racing only became a prospect for Australia after Citroen made a commitment to right-hand drive production for introduction of the model into the UK early in 2011. He said the likely arrival date in Australia for the DS3 Racing is during the second quarter of 2011.

Rowe also confirmed that the HDi variant remains on hold because of the strictly limited number of DS3s available to Australia.

Read the latest Carsales Network news and reviews on your mobile, iPhone or PDA at the carsales mobile site