DS SM Tribute: The return of an icon with a twist of the future

When we talk about Citroën SM, we can imagine ultimate luxury, extravagant design and technologically advanced design. This car, designed in the early 1970s, definitely left an indelible mark on automotive history.

Today, half a century later, SM is back - with a slightly different label. Instead of Citroën's famous double Chevron, the new DS SM Tribute proudly wears the DS badge. It is a one-off concept that marks DS Automobiles' ten years of existence as a separate brand operating under the Stellantis umbrella, following PSA's merger with FCA.

If you're wondering if this modern SM is evoking seventies nostalgia, we can confirm without a doubt that it is. But with the retro touch also comes a futuristic touch. Instead of the traditional grille we're used to on most cars, the SM Tribute uses a 3D light bar that takes the place of the old glass, while the LED headlights offer a modern interpretation of SM's legendary rotating headlights.

Evolution of form

The SM Tribute, although inspired by the original, is not just a copy of the old model. Its body is 2.8 cm longer and 14 cm wider, giving the car an even more dramatic presence. But perhaps the most important thing is the height; the car is 3.5 cm lower, emphasizing its aerodynamic silhouette. Instead of the classic 15-inch wheels on which the SM rested its time, this new-age tribute rides on massive 22-inch rims with aerodynamic covers.

Looking at the rear, you will be impressed by a detail reminiscent of the removable rear wheel covers of the original SM. But if you are a fan of automotive innovations, you will also be impressed by the camera that replaces the classic door mirrors, which further improves aerodynamics and gives the car a modern touch.

Technological advancement with a retro soul

The interior of the SM Tribute carries over some design cues that have been retained from the original SM, such as the curved dashboard and seat design. But of course, this is only a small tribute to the past, because the interior is otherwise brimming with futuristic technology. Screens, screens and more screens – there are no physical buttons, you control everything via digital consoles. Even the steering wheel is in the form of a box-shaped steering wheel with a built-in screen, which gives the feeling that you are behind the wheel of a spaceship and not a car.

While DS hasn't revealed powertrain specs, there's a good chance it's an electric vehicle, especially given that Stellantis is committed to full electrification in the future. There is no word yet on the engine of the original SM, which had a 6-cylinder Maserati engine. Historically, the original SM was a luxurious GT that combined French innovation and Italian power, so it would make sense that the DS SM Tribute would have the same prestigious design – albeit perhaps in electric form.

A bright future or just a tribute to the past?

Although DS has no plans to mass-produce this model, the SM Tribute is an important statement of what could be. The DS brand will introduce new electric models in the coming years, but the question remains - will this brand, which is somewhat overshadowed by other automotive giants under the Stellantis umbrella, have enough power to stay on the market?

SM Tribute is definitely a boldly designed concept that combines elements of the past and the future. A tribute to one of Citroën's most daring creations in history, it will undoubtedly impress car enthusiasts and designers alike. But despite this comeback, Carlos Tavares, CEO of Stellantis, warns that no brand is safe from possible closure if it is not profitable.

For now, it seems so DS SM Tribute it remains a one-off concept, but even if it never sees series production, its influence is clear – the limits of design and technology in motoring have not yet been reached. As long as we witness such creations, we will follow with interest where the development of cars will take place in the future. With this model, DS has shown that tradition and innovation can go hand in hand, even if they only remain at the level of concepts.

DS SM Tribute it is more than just a tribute to the past; is a bold vision of the future that proves that even the most innovative ideas don't need production to make a mark. Knowing that such cars are still being created fills us with hope that daring and experimentation are far from over in the automotive world.