Wild DS SM Tribute is reboot of Citroen SM
New concept created to celebrate 10 years since DS was spun-off from Citroen as a standalone premium brandThe new DS SM Tribute concept has been unwrapped as part of celebrations to commemorate the 10th anniversary of DS Automobiles becoming a standalone brand.
Inspired by the legendary Citroen SM sold from 1970 until 1975, the SM Tribute was created to reinterpret the fast Maserati-powered coupe for the 21st century.
Measuring just 30mm longer, 20mm taller, but a considerable 140mm wider than the original, the new concept largely echoes the old car’s overall proportions and mirrors its sleek, aerodynamic shape.
Prominent retro-futuristic design cues include a 3D screen that acts as a light bar in place of the original’s full-width glass panel and bold rear fender cut-outs honouring the original’s wheel spats.
That said, the huge 22-inch rims dwarf the 1970 SM’s tiny 15-inch alloy wheels.
DS hasn’t revealed if the SM Tribute rides on a modern update of the SM’s hydropneumatic suspension, but the overall silhouette of the new car and ‘Gold Leaf’ paint hue try their best to draw links back to the original.
There’s little reference to the iconic SM inside the cabin with a typical widescreen digital instrument cluster and infotainment system stretching across the dash, paired with a squared-off steering yoke steering and a centre console that both use capacitive-touch keys, rather than physical buttons.
Despite Maserati and DS both being owned by Stellantis, there’s no mention of the famous Italian marque supplying a powertrain for the SM Tribute. Instead, it’s thought the new concept will have an EV-based powertrain.
Designed in-house by DS, it’s unlikely the concept will ever reach production, but designers suggest its design will inspire future DS models, including a new flagship already said to be in the works.
Set to make is public debut on September 15 at the Concours d'Elegance of Chantilly Arts & Elegance, the new SM Tribute arrives less than a month after Citroen announced its exit from the Australian market after a 102-year run.
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