Citroën Cactus concept

Citroën has revealed its new Cactus concept, designed to preview the future of the carmaker's C-line.

The Cactus concept is the result of a program that began with the debut of the C-Cactus concept at the 2007 Frankfurt motor show. The C-Cactus was designed to find out what motorists expect from cars and which equipment and features are considered the most important.

With its measurements – 4,210mm long, 1,750mm wide and 1,530mm high – the Cactus has the dimensions of a compact hatchback and features a high ground clearance and reduced overhang.

Interesting are the ‘Airbumps' on the sides and bumpers, which are made of a spongy material that includes air capsules that absorb impact to guard against scratches and everyday wear and tear.

Its face is where we get the best idea of the design of future C-line models. Smooth surfaces showcase the Citroën chevrons while the progression from hood to wing is smooth.

The Cactus shares its slim headlamp arrangement with the new C4 Picasso, with the DRLs hanging from the hood shutline, also similar to the Jeep Cherokee. A high-tech light signature sits above the Airbump in corner of the grey front graphic. At the rear, the lamps again sit above the wide Airbumps in the corner of the rear graphic. There are hints of the Lacoste concept in its key graphics too.

A ‘floating' roof and rear quarter panels feature alongside textured black wheel arches and gloss black roof rack. Another notable inclusion is the panoramic sunroof that's thermally treated to repel heat and UV rays and is, according to Citroën, as good as a pair of category-4 sunglasses. The Cactus' lack of B-pillars, side and rear windows are designed to draw attention to the interior.

The inside features a slim, floating dashboard and a digital interface that replaces the instrument cluster with a 7-inch screen. It also swaps control buttons for an 8-inch touchscreen connected to all vehicle functions while the traditional gearstick is replaced by push-button controls on the lower area of the dashboard and the steering wheel paddles.

The front seats are designed in the style of a sofa while the treatment of the upper storage areas and interior door handles were inspired by luxury luggage design.

Gallery: Citroën Cactus >

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