Development testing for Citroen’s World Rally Car to meet the new regulations in 2017 saw the machine take to sealed roads for the first time.

The new C3 was put through its paces on the bumpy tarmac at Aude in the south of France after its extensive testing on gravel over the previous three months.

Kris Meeke and Stephane Lefebvre put the car through its paces with particular attention given to programming of the new centre differential which adapts according to the road conditions.

“During this first session, we worked in particular on the programming of the centre differential,” explained Citroën Racing Technical Director Laurent Fregosi.

“The aim is to distribute power between the front and rear axles according to the situation.

“Obviously, the settings will be different from one surface to another. The drivers were also able to assess the effects of mechanical parameters, such as spring stiffness, the anti-roll bar and the differential.

“Overall, the results were positive and we know where we are at. Once again, the car’s reliability allowed us to get plenty of kilometres in.”

Lighter suspension parts are used on tarmac rally set-ups compared to gravel which allows for reduced ground clearance.

Northern Ireland ace Meeke said the changes to the car under the new regulations were exemplified on a sealed surface.

“On tarmac, you can really feel the changes introduced as a result of the new regulations, such as the higher power, the increased width, the power of the brakes,” Meeke explained.