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Auto Express Car Reviews
Citroen C-Metisse
The face of things to come at Citroen has finally been revealed, and it looks set to turn rivals green with envy!
Long, wide and low, C-Métisse is described by Citroen bosses as a luxury grand tourer. It features gullwing doors and a hi-tech hybrid diesel drivetrain
By Dan Strong
06th September 2006
This is the sensational C-Métisse hybrid, which insiders at the firm say hints at the next-generation C4 and C5 family cars.
Due to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show at the end of this month, the carbon fibre-bodied machine is desÂcribed by the company as a prestige GT. And it's one of the most stylish and desirable Citroens ever built.
Measuring 4.74 metres long, two metres wide but only 1.24 metres high, the car's elegant proportions, flamboyant bodywork and spectacular four-door design show off the fact it's also one of the brand's most advanced models. From the cabin to the engine bay, the C-Métisse is packed with technology.
The hybrid transmission is radically different to anything we have seen so far. Although it's based on the diesel system found in the maker's C4 Hybrid demonstrator, it is actually one of the first powertrains to use electric motors installed in the rear wheels - a move that promises to improve performance and traction in slippery conditions.
Inside, all of the major controls are grouped in a series of special rotary dials on the steering wheel, while the car's starter button is mounted overhead. The driver's head restraint is also suspended from the ceiling, improving the adjustability of the seating position. The four individual chairs are trimmed in white leather, and have their own independent air-conditioning, which is controlled via door-mounted panels. There is also individual lighting for each passenger.
At the rear, the bootlid opens by rising vertically to reveal a generous stowage area. There are also two more luggage holds behind the front wheels.
The V6 HDi, mated to a six-speed auto box, drives the front wheels, while the electric motors develop 400Nm of torque to turn the rear wheels.
It takes the car 6.2 seconds to cover 0-60mph, while top speed is estimated to be 156mph. And because the model is capable of running solely on its elecÂtric motors below 20mph, it returns 43mpg. Hydraulic suspension promises a smooth ride, while special run-flat Michelin tyres should provide plenty of grip.
Clearly, there's no doubting the potential of the C-Métisse, or its appeal. After the new Picasso, it looks as if Citroen has created another work of art.
Due to make its debut at the Paris Motor Show at the end of this month, the carbon fibre-bodied machine is desÂcribed by the company as a prestige GT. And it's one of the most stylish and desirable Citroens ever built.
Measuring 4.74 metres long, two metres wide but only 1.24 metres high, the car's elegant proportions, flamboyant bodywork and spectacular four-door design show off the fact it's also one of the brand's most advanced models. From the cabin to the engine bay, the C-Métisse is packed with technology.
The hybrid transmission is radically different to anything we have seen so far. Although it's based on the diesel system found in the maker's C4 Hybrid demonstrator, it is actually one of the first powertrains to use electric motors installed in the rear wheels - a move that promises to improve performance and traction in slippery conditions.
Inside, all of the major controls are grouped in a series of special rotary dials on the steering wheel, while the car's starter button is mounted overhead. The driver's head restraint is also suspended from the ceiling, improving the adjustability of the seating position. The four individual chairs are trimmed in white leather, and have their own independent air-conditioning, which is controlled via door-mounted panels. There is also individual lighting for each passenger.
At the rear, the bootlid opens by rising vertically to reveal a generous stowage area. There are also two more luggage holds behind the front wheels.
The V6 HDi, mated to a six-speed auto box, drives the front wheels, while the electric motors develop 400Nm of torque to turn the rear wheels.
It takes the car 6.2 seconds to cover 0-60mph, while top speed is estimated to be 156mph. And because the model is capable of running solely on its elecÂtric motors below 20mph, it returns 43mpg. Hydraulic suspension promises a smooth ride, while special run-flat Michelin tyres should provide plenty of grip.
Clearly, there's no doubting the potential of the C-Métisse, or its appeal. After the new Picasso, it looks as if Citroen has created another work of art.
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