DS is considering the possibility of launching the SM Tribute equipped with a V6 engine
DS is seriously considering bringing the innovative SM Tribute to mass production, a model that fascinated many at its initial presentation. This prototype is a modern reinterpretation of the iconic Citroën SM and could feature a powerful V6 Nettuno engine from Maserati. With at least 530 horsepower, this engine promises to deliver exceptional performance while keeping alive the essence of the classic collaboration between Citroën and Maserati from the 1970s. However, profitability and market acceptance will be key factors in making this project that revives a myth on wheels a reality.
The world of motorsport is about to receive exciting news: DS is considering mass production of the innovative SM Tribute, a prototype that combines revolutionary design with a powerful V6 engine. This concept, inspired by the legendary Citroën SM, features components from prestigious brands within the Stellantis group, such as Maserati. While the feasibility of bringing this car to market was still under debate, high-level executives from DS and Stellantis are showing interest in turning this model into a commercial reality, as long as it proves to be profitable. In this article, we explore the technical details of the SM Tribute, the inspiration behind its creation, and the potential impact on the automotive market.
A Tribute to a Motorsport Myth
The SM Tribute is a modern ode to the classic Citroën SM, an innovative vehicle from the 1970s that combined unique design elements with advanced technology for its time. The idea behind the SM Tribute is not only to highlight the iconic aesthetics of its predecessor but also to introduce a design language that sets the standard for future DS models. Thierry Metroz, head of design at DS, mentioned that the prototype was conceived not only to celebrate the legacy of the Citroën SM but also to anticipate the design of future cars from the brand.
Cutting-Edge Technology and Design
The heart of the SM Tribute is a V6 Nettuno from Maserati, an impressive 3-liter turbocharged block that promises at least 530 horsepower. While the original Citroën SM was known for its front-wheel drive and innovative hydraulic suspension, the SM Tribute could come equipped with all-wheel drive, a change that promises to offer a more balanced and stable driving experience. This technical detail, combined with the use of the windshield from the Maserati GranTurismo, highlights DS’s intention to blend legacy with modern technology for optimal performance.
Economic and Commercial Considerations
The potential launch of the SM Tribute is not without challenges. Both Maserati and DS are under scrutiny within Stellantis due to their recent economic situations. The production of a model like the SM Tribute must be economically viable to be considered. According to comments from Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, and Olivier Francois, CEO of DS, the vehicle must be capable of generating profits, as Stellantis is not interested in niche cars that result in losses.
Future Perspectives for DS
The SM Tribute prototype has also been an indicator of DS’s future intentions in the automotive industry. By showcasing the car at the renowned Chantilly Arts and Elegance event, DS demonstrated its commitment to innovation and refined design. This prototype not only pays homage to the past but also reflects DS’s ambition to establish itself in a more exclusive and sophisticated market segment. The remaining question is whether the SM Tribute will find an audience willing to pay a premium price for its exclusivity and design.
Future of the SM Tribute: A Tribute to the Past and a Gateway to the Future
The possible market arrival of the SM Tribute equipped with a V6 engine is an exciting step towards the convergence of classic design and modern technology. This strategy seeks to honor the original Citroën SM, an emblematic vehicle that fused the best of Maserati and Citroën, with undeniable beauty and unique features. In this new version, DS Automobiles combines cutting-edge elements with the timeless elegance that characterized the legendary model from the 1970s.
The use of a V6 Nettuno engine from Maserati in this creation is not just a nod to the past but also seen as a choice that could meet the expectations of luxury automotive enthusiasts. With at least 530 hp under the hood, it aims to provide a powerful driving experience that maintains the sporty essence of the original. In the current context, where the debate between electrification and tradition is ongoing, this decision targets a specific market that values the emotionality and traditional performance of a combustion engine.
However, for the concept to materialize into mass production, it faces significant challenges. Financial viability is a critical consideration for DS and Stellantis, who must determine whether the exclusivity and potential appeal of the SM Tribute are sufficient to justify its introduction in a market that seeks to mitigate unprofitable investments. The commercial decision to bet on such a specific niche reflects a bold attempt to reposition and revitalize both DS’s heritage and commitment to innovative design.
Ultimately, the realization of the SM Tribute as a limited-production model could redefine the value of collector cars in the 21st century, projecting legacy and innovation in an irresistible offer for car lovers around the world.
