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Citroen DS3 R3 to Make Rally Debut at Ulster

The British division of Citroen announced today its ready-to-race DS3 R3 rally car will compete for the first time at the Ulster Rally in August, though initial reports were pointing at a later date. The car will be taken to the track by Citroen Racing development team driver Bryan Bouffier and co-driver Xavier Pansieri.

“Previous Citroen Racing models have also started their racing careers in the British and Citroen-sponsored Irish Rally Championships, most recently with the C2 R2 Max in 2008 in the hands of Sébastien Ogier,”
a company statement reads.

The rally version of the DS3 comprises the same features, structural design and appearance as the road-going production model. The intake and exhaust manifolds, turbocharger, injectors and injection pumps are also identical to those used on production models.

However, Citroen Racing has made several modifications, which include the addition of welded, multi-point roll cage, as well as specific racing parts such as the exhaust and turbocharger systems.

The DS3 R3 is powered by a four-cylinder 1.6-litre THP engine with specific racing parts that raise the output to 210 bhp. Moreover, the engine’s torque was also increased to improve traction, now rated at 350 Nm. The power unit is mated to a six-speed gearbox with semi-automatic sequential control.

“As a result, the DS3 R3 is set to become the new leader in its category, combining high performance with class leading versatility in the form of a 1.6 litre THP (high pressure turbo) power plant and adjustable set-up options to suit all surfaces - perfect for the Irish tarmac stages,” the company states.

The DS3 R3 is available in both kit and ready-to-race versions.
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