When I heard that Citroen would be reviving the DS model name for a concept to be revealed at the Geneva Motor Show next month, I couldn’t wait to see what those crazy French chaps would come up with this time. The original DS is one of the most recognized and revered names in the whole of the automotive world. Its gorgeously long lines and nightmarish super-sophisticated suspension that all but alleviated bumps in the road were decades ahead of their time. Even today, the DS stands as a marvel of engineering and design, so you can just imagine the impact it had in 1955.

So when I saw the vehicle you see on your right, I was understandably disappointed. It looks more like Citroen C3 with a few styling cues from the GTbyCitroen concept rather than the classically elegant lines of the DS. Citroen should be ashamed of themselves. But that’s not all, there are two more DS models in the pipeline. 

The pitiful little DS3 will be accompanied by larger and more luxurious DS4 and DS5 models in 2011 and 2012. I’m just hoping that they’re more creative than a slightly reworked C3. Unfortunatlely, Citroen doesn’t care what I, or anyone else, think because they’re going to turn the DS badge into the equivalent of Audi’s S-line trim package. I understand that the financial markets aren’t the greatest right now, but to bring back the DS name and throw it on a supermini in hopes of moving a few more units is a slap in the face to anyone who ever appreciated the original. At least when Mercedes released the McLaren SLR Stirling Moss, it was a fitting tribute to the legend and his 300 SLR. 

You’ll notice that there are a few design cues to indicate a relationship to the original DS. These include the floating roof, the chrome trim along the bottom of the doors, a steeply raked windshield, and that’s it. I’m seriously so depressed that I don’t know if I can think or write about cars anymore. 

If you need me, I’ll be in my workshop fine-tuning my time machine. 

 

 

 

[Autoblog]