WRC: Hyundai finalizes new car spec

Hyundai has signed off on its homologation specification i20 WRC for the 2016 World Rally Championship, ahead of the new car's first public appearance in Germany next month. The Frankfurt-based team has intensified its test program as the homologation deadline draws near for the new generation i20 WRC and team principal Michel Nandan is satisfied so far.

"I am happy with what we have," Nandan said. "I'm confident for next season."

Asked if he expected to challenge for victory from round one in Monte Carlo, Nandan said: "As we know, Monte Carlo and Sweden are both very specific rallies. Monte Carlo especially, anything can happen there.

"The real indication of where our new car is doesn't really come until the fourth round in Argentina, because on round three we have the high altitude of Mexico to think about as well. But, like I say, I'm happy with what we have done and the performance we have from the car."

Hyundai is the only manufacturer running an all-new car next season, but Nandan remained wary of Volkswagen.

"I don't know what they will do for next year," he said. "For example, last year we were between half a second and two tenths a kilometer [behind Volkswagen] and this year, it's the same – but we know we have improved our car.

"We know what our engineers have done for our car this year, but the gap is the same. It's sure – they won't stand still."

Hyundai's all-new i20 WRC will be the shortest-lived World Rally Car in the history of the category, contesting just one season in its works form, before being replaced by the team's 2017 car in just over 12 months.

Originally on Autosport.com