The Citroen Racing developed DS3 Racing will cost a whopping £23k when it goes on sale next month, boasting a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine making 207hp and laden with luxury knick-knacks.
Based on the top-of-the-range DS3 DSport THP 150, the DS3 Racing has been extensively modified by Citroen's Racing department but is no stripped-to-the-bone street-fighter. Instead, Citroen says it is significantly better specified than many of its competitors - standard equipment includes automatic digital air conditioning, Bluetooth with USB connectivity and an eight-speaker HiFi system.
'Motorsport-inspired' features, include carbon fibre components such as the rear diffuser, front bumper, side rubbing strips and wheel arch extensions, the company says. The interior has received a similar treatment with carbon fibre on the centre console, steering wheel and door inserts.
The DS3 Racing is available with either an Obsidian Black (pearlescent) body and Sport Orange roof, or a Polar White body with a Carbon Grey roof. The orange or grey roof colours are matched to the alloy wheels, door mirrors, chevrons, grille surround, tailgate spoiler and dashboard fascia.
The car has everything needed to become the benchmark in its segment in terms of dynamic performance, says Citroen, which is quite a claim with rivals like the Renaultsport Clio 200 out there already.
Engineers have increased the power output of the 1.6-litre THP engine from 156hp to 207hp, and maximum torque is also increased, from 177lb ft to 203lb ft. As a result, the car boasts a top speed of 146mph, and a 0-62mph time of 6.5secs.
The suspension settings have been modified, specific dampers have been fitted, front and rear tracks have been widened by 30mm and the ride height has been lowered by 15 mm. The braking system has also been up-rated, with 4-piston callipers and special brake discs at the front but the info we have today makes no mention of a clever torque-steer reducing suspension set-up like that employed by the Clio 200 which is £5k cheaper.
With a price of £23,100 (including 20% VAT rate as first deliveries are expected in 2011) perhaps it's not a surprise that Citroen expects only to sell 200 RHD cars in the UK.