The prototype drive earlier this year, the final production version of DS3 Racing. To avoid misunderstandings, despite racing the name suggests, this time by car. The reason for the name, DS3, R was designed and built a part of racing Lemon, who is responsible for the Citroen rally car was relatively successful.
With 150 as the basis DSport Racing uses the same 1.6-liter engine, but with the 204bhp turbocharged incited them (more than one prototype). Other changes include wider track width 30 mm, 15 mm lower ride height, larger front brakes.
Look scheduled test shots Citroen DS3 Racing Action
To ensure DS3 R, unlike a smaller version is only offered in two colors (black and orange, with white or gray), and the outside is decorated with carbon fiber. The result is a vision that is clearly not shy and reticent - and strictly speaking, only necessary parts are an extension of the wheel - but we can not imagine many people would love the DS3 seems to Rs.
Loans Citroen power to do their work well - because what you see is what you do - it's real carbon fiber. Complete the picture of the larger wheels and other brands.
How does it feel?
It may sound like an obvious statement, but evolution 150DSport, instead of transformation - that I, as a result of their travel experts Motorsports DS3 R feels like a completely different car.
But it's not a bad thing, since the standard car is one of our favorites. The engine is definitely stronger, but without any real compromise in low-end response and a modified exhaust sound enthusiastic.
The control unit is also better. It will rival the best hydraulic setup, but the electrical system is actually quite good, but still a bit light, with a consistent weight of the lock and there is good reason to feel. What is useful because if the conditions that we face during our tests (wet and slippery) you want to know what happens on the front axle.
With a 215/40R18 tire has good grip and Racing stiffer springs and a wider track, a relatively small role and a good body control. However, R DS3 struggle for traction - which is understandable 203lbft moment, but it is what happens when treatment goes beyond the date which is somewhat disappointing.
DS3 R Limited Slip Differential or smart Revo-knuckle style suspension, which means that from time to time to gain momentum to run on the other hand, spin the wheel and under control. We do not expect full traction under all circumstances, but perhaps a few other ways to manage it. With DS3 R or you can ESP, which is a bit cautious, or slot ESP hero (something you can do that here, unlike other DS3s) and living with the coating.
A second warning, driving at low speeds, the company - not to create problems in our cozy, testing, but perhaps in the United Kingdom. No complaints with the brakes themselves, which is great for this size car, and no shortage of power.
Should I buy?
All in all a good hot hatch, it's fast, agile, fun and definitely attractive. Whether the problems are not as good as the efforts of the Clio Cup will depend on what you need.
Certainly R DS3 is better appointed cabins. In truth, we doubt that the Clio and R DS3 will appeal to different buyers, and certainly the various portfolios. £ 23,100 Citroen takes more than £ 6,000 more than the regular Renault and DS3.
Confrontation relative exclusivity, only 200 (of total production in 2000) DS3 Rs come in Britain, and the fact JCW Mini will cost £ 21,875. The real solution is that carbon fiber, DS3, R is obviously more expensive car for production and DS3 current popularity, Citroën believes that demand will keep prices high. Despite some reservations, I doubt that it's wrong.
Jamie Corstorphine
Price: £ 23,100, Engine: 4cyl in-line, 1598cc, turbo Power: 204bhp at 6,000 rpm Torque: 203lbft the 2000-4500rpm, 0-62 km / h: 6.5sec, Top Speed: 146 kmh combined: 44.1mpg, CO2 : 149 g / km, Empty Weight: 1240 kg Transmission 6-spd Manual
