[2] The 1999 event was based in the city of Karlstad in Sweden and was contested over nineteen special stages, covering a total competitive distance of 384.30 kilometres (238.79 mi).

Tommi Makinen was the defending rally winner, as was Team Mitsubishi Ralliart.

Peugeot Esso and Skoda Motorsport would not compete in the event.

Makinen, along with co-driver Risto Mannisenmaki won the rally, their second win in a row, strengthening their lead of the championship.

The event was open to crews competing in the World Rally Championship, as well as privateer entries that were not registered to score points in the manufacturer's championship.