The season consisted of twelve rounds and started on 19 January with the Monte Carlo Rally.
Within the new system, the final two events in Scotland and Cyprus offered more points via a scoring coefficient.
The rule was intended to increase the number of entries for the final two rounds, although Bouffier (who was still in mathematical contention for the title) did not participate in Cyprus.
Extra points for the final two gravel rallies meant that tarmac specialists would not necessarily dominate, however.
The final two rallies were won by Andreas Mikkelsen, who also took two other podiums and the most stage wins during the season en-route to the championship.