Citroen centenary concepts? Keep talking . . .
FOR CITROEN SPOTTERS, 2019 PROMISES A FAIR BIT OF ACTIVITY ON THE CONCEPT CAR FRONT. IT IS, AFTER ALL, THE BRAND’S CENTENARY YEAR
If there is one modern manufacturer that can be depended upon to wow a crowd with a new concept vehicle, it has to be Citroen.
The French carmaker provides good concept, as evidenced by a variety of show-stoppers over the past few decades. Whether it’s something future-facing such as the C-Lounge concept, or a new take on a retro-minded bit of heritage, such as the e-Mehari, Citroen has design and engineering kookiness down pat.
For Citroen spotters, 2019 promises a fair bit of activity on the concept car front. It is, after all, the brand’s centenary year. To that end, Citroen boss Linda Jackson has stated that no fewer than two new Citroen concept cars will appear to help celebrate the milestone.
We will see the first concept unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in a couple of months. Jackson has told media the model will be based on “Citroen’s vision of urban mobility”. Hmm, actually that doesn’t sound hugely promising. Visions of upright people-mover pods abound.
Never mind; the second one might prove more interesting. There is no discussion around what the second concept will be — fingers crossed for an almost-production-ready 21st-century take on the classic DS — but Citroenophiles will be put out of their misery in May.
European markets will also be able to option special edition Origin versions of existing models during the centennial year.
Though Citroen remains what polite society might refer to as a “boutique brand” in New Zealand, the double chevron marque is going well in its home territory. European markets gobbled up more than 800,000 Citroens in 2018; a 5 per cent increase over the previous year. Regardless of registrations though, it’s the cool concepts that keep us keen. Make ’em good please Citroen.