Volkswagen to enter WRC

Volkswagen has confirmed that it will be contesting the World Rally Championship from 2013. The announcement was made in Olbia - just ahead of the Rally d'Italia Sardegna - where a concept version of the firm’s Polo R WRC was also revealed.

Volkswagen Polo R WRC 2013 (Concept) Front

A fourth manufacturer is good news for the series, and the arrival of Volkswagen Motorsport should provide some added competition for the existing entries from Ford, Citroën and newcomers Mini.

The catalyst for the WRC’s revitalisation has undoubtedly been new cost-saving regulations, introduced at the start of this season.

Volkswagen Polo R WRC 2013 (Concept) Front Side 1Volkswagen Polo R WRC 2013 (Concept) Side
Volkswagen Polo R WRC 2013 (Concept) Rear SideVolkswagen Polo R WRC 2013 (Concept) Front Side 2

Like its rivals, the Polo R WRC will be powered by a 1.6 litre, turbocharged petrol engine with direct injection producing around 295 bhp (220 kW / 300 PS) and 350 Nm (258 lb/ft) of torque. Featuring all-wheel drive, bodywork alterations and various aerodynamic aids, the end package is going to have to comply with the minimum weight limit of 1,200 kilograms (2,645 lbs).

Although the car is just a concept at the moment, work on the first prototypes is planned to commence later this year ahead of a testing programme in 2012.

Volkswagen Polo R WRC 2013 (Concept) Rear

Related posts:
Mini Countryman WRC
Citroën DS3 WRC 2011
Ford Fiesta RS WRC 2011

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