DS “SM Tribute Concept”.
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Stellantis just decided to show throw a bone to the DS brand. Just like they did with Chrysler and the Hacyion concept, they just gave DS a brand-new concept. Reminding people the brand is a round and they’re not abandoning it. However, just like the Halcyon, this new SM Tribute concept is probably not previewing a production car.
First, a large 2-door coupe is not what sells these days. It’s actually exactly what does not sell. Although it is really a sad situation, buyers don’t seem interested in the great proportions of a sleek 2-door car.
However, I really hope this shows a new design direction for the DS brand. The whole idea of the DS brand was a weird one in the first place. Since the good old “DS” sedan was a famous Citroen model. It would be like if Ford decided to have a luxury sub-brand called “Thunderbird”.
I can’t decide if I hate this new concept or not. I think the proportions work fine and give a similar feeling to the original. Except for the huge goofy wheels. At the same time, there is too much of that black plastic trim outside. Way too much. The interior is pretty busy, but again, a step up from the current necessary DS interiors.
It seems the brand is in desperate need of an identity. Which of course is a tough thing to do for something created by a committee a few years ago. Current Citroens also need a shot of personality they have not gotten for years.
The Citroen SM was produced from 1970 to 1975. It was mostly the result of Citroen becoming the owner of Maserati in 1968. The large coupe was powered by a small V6.
The SM was sold in the US until 1973. The car was basically killed in the North American market because of the revised 1974 model year 5MPH bumper standards. These were not compatible with Citroen’s variable height suspension.
It was featured in an episode of Columbo in 1975. As well as in the Burt Raynold film “The Longest Yard” in 1974.
The rear wheel arch, while cool, will never make it to production.