FUTUREPROOF
Legendary motor that was discontinued almost 50 years ago revived with retro-futuristic design
The iconic car was one of the fastest on the market
A LEGENDARY motor that was discontinued almost 50 years ago has been revived with a new retro design.
The iconic car, which disappeared from the roads nearly half a century ago, has made a triumphant return with a sleek, retro-futuristic twist.
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French luxury carmaker DS Automobiles has reimagined the legendary Citroen SM as a concept car that fuses classic 1970s style with cutting-edge technology.
The car offers a glimpse into the brand’s future design direction.
Marking ten years since DS became its own entity, breaking away from Citroen, the newly unveiled SM Tribute concept honours the spirit of the original model.
DS has envisioned this new version as if the original SM – a car famed for its bold design, advanced features, and Maserati V6 engine – had "continued to develop over the past five decades" by re-imagining the car to have evolved with the times instead of being retired in 1975.
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Back in its heyday, the Citroen SM was considered one of the most innovative vehicles of its time with swivelling headlights, variable-assist power steering, rain-sensitive wipers, and inboard front brakes.
It was a sports car that was also one of the most comfortable, aerodynamic, and fastest on the market.
The new SM Tribute concept stays true to the original's sleek, low-slung coupe silhouette, featuring a long, sculpted bonnet and a sharply angled front end.
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With a length of 4,940mm, a width of 1,980mm, and a height of just 1,300mm, it's almost a perfect size match for its predecessor.
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Although DS notes that it sits 35mm lower to the ground, aiming for maximum aerodynamic efficiency.
Design elements that pay homage to the original include the distinctive wind-cheating rear wheel spats, retro Gold Leaf paintwork, and a unique 3D light bar that doubles as a wraparound headlight.
DS design chief Thierry Metroz said the team "didn't want the original design to be spoilt," acknowledging the deep attachment fans of the brand have for its iconic models.
However, he hinted that the SM Tribute concept is more than just a nod to the past, adding that the design includes elements from DS's future line-up.
While DS has not yet confirmed which features of the SM Tribute will make it to production.
Possible candidates include the three-spoke light signatures, aero-optimised rear-view cameras, and a large air-channelling bonnet vent.
The interior also merges retro charm with futuristic tech, featuring a curved gauge cluster, projection display for the infotainment system, and a steer-by-wire steering wheel.
All while paying tribute to the original SM's distinctive dashboard and horizontally striped seat cushions.
Iconic car comebacks
A number of long-forgotten car nameplates have returned to British roads in recent times - with many more coming over the horizon.
Here are the latest revivals:
- Citroen SM: DS Automobiles reimagines this 1970s legend with a retro-futuristic design and modern tech.
- Renault 5: Set for a comeback as a stylish, all-electric supermini.
- Ford Capri: Returning as a sporty, electric crossover.
- Alfa Romeo GTV: Expected to make a comeback as a sleek, high-performance coupe.
Find out more on the five latest revivals to hit British roads.
Although DS has remained tight-lipped about the concept’s technical details, any production version is likely to be electric.
Looking ahead, DS is set to release two mid-sized premium cars next year: an SUV inspired by 2020’s Aero Sport Lounge concept and a high-riding saloon set to replace the current DS 9.
Both will be built on Stellantis’s new STLA Medium architecture, capable of supporting both plug-in hybrid and fully electric powertrains.
For now, the SM Tribute concept is a tantalising glimpse into a future where old meets new, proving that true legends never really die – they just evolve.
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This comes as a car expert revealed five luxury cars that look like "they cost an absolute fortune" but can be found for up to 90% off.
Elsewhere, the UK’s most expensive petrol stations have been revealed with drivers paying £1,200 more to fill up – is your local overpriced?
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