The season began on January 20 with the 74th Monte Carlo Rally where Finland's Marcus Grönholm, in a Ford Focus RS WRC, took the win ahead of France's Sébastien Loeb.
Cars entered by a manufacturer had to be equipped with the same engine for two rallies; further limitations were imposed on the changing of some parts, including suspension, steering, turbochargers and gearboxes.
† Sebastien Loeb broke his arm before Rally Turkey and missed the remainder of the season.
The highest finishing competitor entered in each WRC class is listed below.
Non-championship entries may have finished ahead of WRC competitors in individual rounds.