Source: Citroen Press

 

Citroën is unleashing a hot new DS3 at the Geneva Motor Show, the limited edition 200hp DS3 Racing. Developed by Citroën Racing, the winning team behind five WRC manufacturer’s titles and six driver’s titles for Sébastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, DS3 Racing is a special edition with a 100% sporting pedigree.  Planned for the second half of 2010, the exclusive DS3 Racing will be limited to just 1000 production units.

 

With integrated carbon-trimmed components and specialist motorsports equipment, DS3 Racing’s tuned and turbo-charged 1.6-litre THP 150 engine develops 200hp, a power increase of almost 30% over the standard unit with a torque increase of 15% from 240Nm to 275Nm.

 

Allowing DS3 Racing to stick to the road, the car has undergone some significant sporting enhancements.  The steering has been made even more precise, with the control system modified for the new tyres.  The fitment of stiffer suspension springs, adapted front and rear shock absorbers and the widening of the front and rear tracks by 30mm plus lowering the car by 15mm all dramatically change the driving dynamics.

These important developments reinforce both the stability and dynamic control of the car, and enhance the feedback between the road and the driver.

 

The braking system has also been up-rated to ensure control over the car’s additional horsepower.  The front wheels get 4-piston racing callipers and special disc-brakes - with drilled discs at the rear.  For enhanced control, the ESP has been adapted to complement the sportier handling, but can be disengaged according to the driver’s preference.

 

The preview model, to be presented at Geneva, is in a special livery and features sporty ‘DS3’, ‘Citroën Racing’ and chequered flag graphics on the roof, in front of the rear wheel arches, under the side mirrors and next to the fuel cap.