Next season will still be run under the current rules, but 2027 will usher in a major transformation. Manufacturers will be allowed to base their rally cars on a hatchback, sedan, SUV, or even a fully bespoke concept. While there are certain restrictions on body panels, the new level of design freedom is significant.
The new regulations are set to remain in effect for ten years, aimed at providing long-term stability for the series. The FIA has already stated that powertrain freedom will increase as well, allowing manufacturers to choose between internal combustion engines, hybrids, fully electric setups, or even hydrogen power starting in 2027.
Toyota WRC technical director Tom Fowler views the reform positively. The new generation of cars must be based on Rally2-spec engines, and the cost of each vehicle will be capped at €345,000 — a move hoped to increase competition in the currently lacklustre top category.
“I think drivers of Rally2 cars will very quickly see the potential for winning WRC rounds. When we get to 2027, we’re going to have an interesting combination of manufacturer cars and plenty of Rally2 machinery out there. The number of possible winners at WRC rounds will be higher than it is now,” Fowler told DirtFish.
Manufacturers like Toyota will need to build their 2027 cars quickly once the final rules are confirmed — hopefully soon. Fowler points out that brands like Škoda already have a considerable advantage, having developed Rally2 cars for many years. Toyota, for its part, introduced its own Rally2 contender at the start of last year, meaning the foundation is in place — especially if they choose to continue with the GR Yaris.
“Look at this really simplistically. Right now, I don’t have a ’27 car. But a Škoda Rally2 car exists and has been driving for more than a decade in different forms. So, when we get to the Safari Rally in 2027, I wouldn’t bet that a car which doesn’t exist today has a better chance of getting to the end faster compared with one which has already done this event and existed for more than a decade.”
“Of course we’re aiming at delivering the most reliable car we possibly can for the start of 2027, but look at 2022 – that car wasn’t as reliable as it was after two years’ development going into 2024.”
Still, Fowler emphasises that the overhaul could inject fresh excitement into the WRC’s top class.
“The first year is always difficult, no matter how good job you do, you always find stuff. This will bring back that opportunity for national heroes to come to the fore, it will add another dimension to the competition. There’s no doubt, for 2027, private teams and private drivers will have a real opportunity, be it in a Rally2 car or in a more affordable Rally1.”
