Citroen reveals new C3 WRC machine

Citroen has amplified the new-look of its C3 small hatchback by revealing its next-generation World Rally Car.

The beefed-up machine, which will take the French car maker back into the championship as an official manufacturer entry in 2017, showcases the radical new design direction for the C3, which was revealed earlier this year in production form ahead of its official debut at next week's Paris motor show.

Like the funky C4 Cactus, the five-door hatchback has a double-stacked headlight arrangement with narrower main headlights integrated into a wrap-around grille that incorporates the company's Chevron logo and larger round driving lights featuring in the bumper. The back-end features full LED tail lights with an elliptical motif and two chrome-tipped tail pipes blended into the lower diffuser.

It will also come available on certain models with the body-protecting Airbumps first introduced on the city-sized SUV, although they are clearly absent on the WRC machine.

While Citroen admits the WRC car still has to be approved by the FIA to compete in its current form, with extended body work that is 55mm wider than the road-going machine plus the addition of a race-ready front spoiler, massive rear wing and aerodynamic side skirt, it concedes the car "hints at the intentions of the Citroën style centre without giving away its final form. Based on New C3, it retains all of its curves and fresh appeal. This ultra-sporty, brawny, and chiselled version incorporates the stylistic elements of the production model."

The Citroen C3 WRC will make its official race debut at the season-opening Monte Carlo Rally in January 2017.

Read all the latest Citroen news and reviews here