FYI: Stellantis’ DS brand has reimagined the iconic Citroën SM for the modern age, blending retro charm with cutting-edge design in a concept car for the next decade.
A Modern Tribute to a Classic Marvel
The Citroën SM was a technological wonder of the 1970s, featuring advanced hydropneumatic suspension, a quad-cam V-6 engine, and a strikingly aerodynamic design. When it debuted, its drag coefficient of 0.26 was exceptionally low, and even by today’s standards, it remains impressive. Unfortunately, despite its engineering brilliance, the SM struggled in the market and was discontinued after just five years.
If the SM had survived the decades, it might have evolved into something akin to the SM Tribute Concept, revealed by DS—now a luxury brand under Stellantis, that originally began as a performance offshoot of Citroën’s legendary DS model.
Design Evolution: Blending the Old with the New
To celebrate the 10th anniversary of Chantilly Arts & Elegance, DS has created the SM Tribute Concept, which combines retro elements with modern aesthetics. It is set to make its official debut at the French event running from September 12 to 15.
Exterior Design
- Front Fascia: The car’s front retains the iconic wraparound headlight and number plate look, reinterpreted as sculptural screens doubling as a light bar.
- Side Profile: The sleek profile retains the SM’s original lines, with the airflow smoothly transitioning from the wide front to the narrow rear. The rear wheels are partially hidden, reminiscent of the original design.
Interior Features
Inside, the retro-modern blend continues:
- Dashboard: The dash maintains its original aesthetic but integrates a curved digital gauge cluster.
- Seating: The seats feature retro-striped upholstery, mixing leather and Alcantara trim for a luxurious feel.
Driving into the Future
Though DS has not revealed the detailed specifications of the SM Tribute Concept’s powertrain, the absence of an exhaust system hints at an electric drivetrain. Given DS is part of Stellantis, it’s likely the concept will utilize one of the automaker’s STLA EV platforms.
This unveiling isn’t just a nod to the past but a preview of what’s to come, as DS aims to use this design study for a production model anticipated around the end of the decade.
Conclusion
The DS SM Tribute Concept serves as a fitting homage to Citroën’s pioneering SM while offering a glimpse into the future of automotive luxury and design. It beautifully marries the heritage of a classic with the advancements of today’s technology, promising to captivate both vintage car enthusiasts and modern tech aficionados.
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Donald Smith, Editor of Automotive.fyi
