Citroen C-Metisse Concept (2006)

Citroen C-Metisse Concept

The elegant design lines of the C-Métisse, the latest out-of-this-world concept car from Citroën, will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this month. Exceptionally stylish and powerful, the C-Métisse proves that a high performance car can also be green, combining a top speed of 155mph with the ability to cover around 45 miles per gallon on the combined cycle.

Crammed with hi-tech innovations and neat touches, the C-Métisse explores new paths in car design and driving pleasure. Breathtakingly good looking, this model combines coupé styling with 4-door practicality thanks to the show-stopping gull-wing front and rear doors.

In particular, the C-Métisse has been developed to offer outstanding environmental credentials. It boasts an economical HDi V6 diesel engine, coupled with an acclaimed Diesel Particulate Filter System, and two separate electric motors on the rear wheels, capable of developing a massive 400Nm of additional torque. Around town the new concept car can even run in Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mode.

With its unique and powerful style, this 4-seater, 4-door coupé is visually striking. It is also exceptionally low for a grand-tourer of its size, at just 1.24 metres high, which contrasts with its length of 4.74 metres and width of 2 metres. And with its long bonnet and virtually non-existent rear overhang, its design is classically Citroën.

Both outside and in, the C-Métisse takes styling to another level. The front doors open gull-wing style, while the rear doors spin round to provide outstanding accessibility for a car of such a low height. The large, eye-catching alloy wheels have been specially designed, with central wheel nuts hinting at the model's sporting nature.

Once inside the 'aircraft-style cockpit', occupants are enveloped by the extremely comfortable, individual white leather seats, and are surrounded by smart leather trim and aluminium inserts. Each of the passengers benefits from independent air conditioning controls, individual roof lighting and plenty of space.

The driving position has been designed to make life as easy as possible for the driver. The car can be started via 'fighter pilot' style buttons on the roof console, while the fixed-centred controls steering wheel, with mounted gear paddles, brings the essential driving and comfort aids within easy reach.

The unique central console is divided into five sections, within which are located key functions. The console then extends into the cabin via three illuminated strips which inform passengers of the current mode of hybrid propulsion. This lighting system is complemented by sound effects that accompany certain driver actions and indicate deployment of the airfoils.

A suspended head restraint and electric adjustment of the steering wheel and aluminium pedal assembly optimise the driver's line of view, while maintaining passenger space in the rear.

Further helping the driver to view the road ahead, the front headlamps are equipped with a row of LED's that light up progressively, dependant on the steering-wheel angle and vehicle speed, to provide optimal lighting and increased driver awareness through every corner.

A combination of the diesel hybrid power unit, optimised aerodynamics and reduced weight ensure that the C-Métisse offers outstanding levels of performance, fuel economy and a healthy respect for the environment - the C-Métisse can return around 45 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 174g/km.

Powering the front wheels is a 208bhp V6 HDi diesel engine mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox, whilst a further two electric motors can drive the rear wheels. Providing an innovative 4-wheel drive capability, each of these motors can deliver up to 400Nm of torque and 20bhp.