Citroën is unleashing the hot new DS3 Racing in South Africa. The DS3 Racing is born from the Citroën Racing team’s knowledge gleaned from seven consecutive FIA World Rally championship Drivers and Co-drivers titles with Sebastien Loeb and Daniel Elena, together with 7 FIA World Rally Championship Manufacturers titles and over 120 podium finishes since 1999.
Limited to just 1 000 production units worldwide, of which South Africa will receive just ten, the DS3 Racing is modified and hand-finished by the Citroën Racing Team in their special rally workshop and fitted with parts developed according to the Citroën Racing specifications.
The styled bonnet conceals a four cylinder 1.6-litre THP (high pressure turbo) petrol engine. To achieve the additional power output, Citroën Racing’s engineers modified the performance of the turbo and adjusted the mapping of the engine control unit. A special tail pipe and muffler were also added. As a result, the DS3 Racing’s tuned and turbocharged engine develops 152 kW – a power increase of almost 30% over the standard unit – with a torque increase of 15% from 240 Nm to 275 Nm. These figures give the DS3 Racing a top speed of 235 km/h and a 0 – 100 km/h sprint time of 6.5 seconds.
The car has undergone some significant sporting enhancements to provide a more thrilling drive. 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 (to handle the increased power), and the widening of the front and rear tracks by 30 mm – plus lowering the car by 15 mm – all dramatically change the driving dynamics. These changes 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 power. 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.
Measuring 3.94 m long, DS3 Racing’s obsidian black body is contrasted with a bright orange-coloured roof, side mirrors and brake callipers. The alloy wheels and front grille surround – with integrated chevrons – are finished in orange chrome. A carbon finish is used around the front bumper, lower body trim and wing extensions, whilst large 18-inch alloy wheels, chrome door handles and even a chrome-finished exhaust complete the dynamic styling. A DS3 Racing signature on the rear tailgate confirms the model’s exclusivity.
Inside the cabin, carbon trim adorns the dashboard, centre console, steering wheel inserts, armrests and door side mouldings. The vibrant orange colour of the bodywork continues into the cabin with the glossy strip of the dash, gear stick and gear stick surround finished in the same bright tone. The sporty, figure-hugging seats are also touched with orange elements and are embossed with ‘Citroën Racing’.
With only ten available to purchase in SA, the R399 900 asking price may not look all that steep when you consider the exclusivity. Also included is a 3-year/100 000km warranty, roadside assistance and a 4-year/60 000km service plan.
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