Skoda to show rally-spec Citigo concept

UPDATED: 21/05/2012A RALLY-SPEC version of Skoda’s Citigo compact hatch has made its world premiere at the Volkswagen Group’s annual enthusiasts’ meeting at Lake Worthersee in Reifnitz, Austria.

Pointing to a potential off-tarmac campaign and production model spin-off of its all-new VW Up-based sub-light hatch, the Citigo Rally concept comes with an array of aggressive body adornments including an oversized front bumper with massive air intake, a big downforce-producing roof-mounted rear spoiler and broad fenders housing low-profile tyres on forged 18-inch rims.

There is also a heavily sculpted two-tone bonnet, substantial side skirts and, at the rear, a centrally mounted exhaust and an aerodynamic rear bumper with integrated diffuser.

The cabin includes a rollcage, racing seats and a lightweight dashboard, with switchgear “strongly reminiscent” of those used in rallying.

No technical details have yet been divulged, with Skoda saying only that the Citigo Rally “takes its dynamics” – and clearly its key design cues – from Skoda rally cars such as the current Fabia S2000, which drives all four wheels through a 201kW/250Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine and six-speed sequential gearbox.

Skoda has also developed a ‘Citigo DJ Car’ for this year’s 31st annual Worthersee Tour meeting, complete with a thumping 1000-watt stereo system that fits into a modified version of the mini-car with a widened rear end behind the B-pillars.

From top: Volkswagen Golf GTI Worthersee concept, Skoda Fabia S2000 and Audi Q3 Red Track.

The idea is that the back end creates an “open stage” inside the car for DJs, who will entertain the thousands of VW Group fans at the event.

As GoAuto has reported, Volkswagen has also revealed a rally-inspired compact car based on the Polo at this year's event, along with a new interpretation of the Golf GTI developed with nine young company apprentices.

“This project illustrates how the thorough knowledge, commitment and creativity of our apprentices culminates in a fascinating show car that combines technical extravagance and everyday utility,” said VW development chief Ulrich Hackenberg.

Meanwhile, Audi has taken to Worthersee yet another lifestyle-oriented edition of its new Q3 SUV, this one dubbed the ‘Red Track’ and designed to appeal to winter-sport enthusiasts.

Unique roof rails (with compact LED lights) and an ‘Energy Red’ paint finish are the main exterior features, while the cargo area features heatable seat cushions integrated into a reversible floor mat, plus two portable lamps with radiant heating elements and a thermos flask.

An advanced, ultra-light ‘Audi e-Bike Worthersee’ stunt cycle was also shown at the event.