The Citroen SM, a sporty yet elegant coupe from the early 1970s, has made a comeback as a concept car under the DS badge. While it may not be as iconic as the Citroen DS or CX, it holds a significant place in the brand’s history.
The SM, a performance grand tourer with a three-door hatchback coupe body style, was related to the Maserati Merak and Quattroporte II due to Citroen’s acquisition of Maserati in 1968.
Introduced in 1970, it combined Citroen’s legendary suspension with a Maserati V6. Despite a short production run from 1970 to 1975, the SM left a lasting impact on the brand and even influenced other manufacturers.
Its legacy continues today as a part of the DS Automobiles premium marque, which originated within Citroen and later became independent before joining the Stellantis group.
The SM’s unique blend of luxury, performance, and innovative design set it apart from its contemporaries. Its hydraulic suspension system, borrowed from the DS, provided unparalleled comfort and handling. The Maserati-sourced V6 engine delivered a thrilling driving experience, making the SM a true performance grand tourer.
While the SM’s production was relatively short-lived, its influence on the automotive industry is undeniable. It helped establish Citroen as a brand synonymous with innovation and luxury. The SM’s concept car revival suggests that its legacy continues to resonate with enthusiasts and designers alike.
As the automotive industry evolves, SM’s spirit of pushing boundaries and combining performance with elegance remains a valuable inspiration. To commemorate its first decade of independence, DS Automobiles has realized a concept car that draws inspiration from its 2020 sketches, #SM2020.
The DS Automobiles SM Tribute is a reimagined version of the iconic SM, blending retro aesthetics with futuristic elements. Crafted by the DS Design Studio Paris, this concept envisions a world where the SM’s production never ceases.
The original’s distinctive glass panel has evolved into a light bar and 3D screen, flanked by slim LED headlights. While the headlights no longer swivel, the SM Tribute boasts a more modern silhouette with a longer, wider, and lower stance.
To maintain its iconic character, the concept incorporates design cues from the original, such as the cutout rear fender and covered wheels. The rear features a futuristic design with glossy black elements and ultra thin LEDs, contrasting the striking Gold Leaf paint. Cameras replace the traditional door mirrors.
Inside, the SM Tribute departs significantly from its 1970s predecessor, featuring a minimalist interior with numerous screens and minimal physical controls. The absence of traditional buttons and dials reflects the modern trend toward intuitive, touch-based interfaces.
The cabin design is sleek and sophisticated, with premium materials and refined finishes. Unfortunately, DS Automobiles has not disclosed any details about the propulsion system or performance specifications.
This leaves room for speculation as to whether the SM Tribute is a purely conceptual design or if it could potentially be brought to production. Some believe that the concept could serve as a preview of future DS models, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and design excellence.
