Citroen Racing is preparing its return to the FIA World Rally Championship, last night revealing its C3 WRC Concept ahead of the Paris motor show.
The concept gives us a first look at just what the French marque’s 2017 WRC entry will look like, the small hatch promising to be “an energetic car with a unique shape that packs a real punch under the bonnet”.
Designed by the Citroen Style Centre in partnership with Citroen Racing, the model is based on the newly announced C3, adding extra width and length (+55mm) thanks to the added aero fitted.
Power comes from a bolstered 280kW version of Citroen’s 1.6-litre turbo-petrol four. Stylistic elements of the road-going version – including the two-level illuminated logo, two-tone canopy and canopy accent – remain, as do the dual chrome chevrons that extend down towards the LED daytime running lights. The model is 25kg lighter than its derivative.
The race-ready Citroen C3 WRC will compete for the first time at the Monte-Carlo Rally in January 2017. Team Citroen has previously won eight manufacturer’s titles and 96 race wins.