Hyundai prepares intensively for next WRC season in 2014 with the i20

The latest specification of the Hyundai i20 WRC ran for the first time during a positive shakedown on a private testing ground just weeks ago. The aim was to check the car's systems as the team ramps up its test schedule ahead of an expected entry in next year's FIA World Rally Championship.

Just last week, the team started working on different set-up solutions and gathered valuable data which will be analysed by engineers back in Alzenau, Germany.

While all key areas of the car's performance were evaluated, there was a major focus on collecting feedback on the i20 WRC's 1.6-litre turbocharged engine.

A total of 550km was covered over three days that has enabled the team to start building the knowledge base of testing data from which to prepare its entry to the WRC in a short but crucial eight months' time. 

With an ambitious target to meet in a short period of time, the intensive testing programme is intended to ensure that Hyundai Motorsport arrives at Rallye Monte Carlo in January fully prepared for the challenge.

The programme will continue for the rest of the year and will involve the assessment and development of the i20 WRC in all of the terrains and conditions expected in World Rally Championship.