Citroen, the French automaker produced this economy car during the latter part of the last century. The Citroen 2CV is considered to be one of the most iconic cars from the company and was dubbed the ‘tin snail’.
There were 924 Citroen 2CVs that were built in 1949 and many variations since. It rolled out post World War II and though the car had been in the making for a few years, it was sent to the scrap yard and it was only after the war that it went into production to avoid it falling into German hands.
The first cars had a 175 cc engine and the only two instrumentation panels in the car were the speedometer and the ammeter. It had only one variant where color was concerned and that was gray and it had a canvas sunroof. However, the great thing about the car is the fact that it continued to evolve and improve.
Today, the Citroen's 2CV is back in the circuit with a bang, following the trend of some other companies to bring back the classic cars with a bit of a modern twist. It is this modern interpretation of the age-old classic that looks like it could take the family car market by storm.
Of course, the shape is unmistakable, with its clamshell bonnet. However, the headlights will now be integrated right into the wings and you can choose between a canvas and a panoramic glass roof.
The slatted bonnet, the covered rear wheels and the slab sides are reminiscent of the old 1949 model as is the double chevron grille. Then comes the modern touch which means flush windows and lights that are faired-in. The whole look follows a minimalist trend.
It is very green from its plastic body panels to its hybrid diesel engine so it means very low emissions as well as very little fuel consumption.
Inside, the steering wheel is thin rimmed and large, with the gear lever in the center of the dashboard like the old car. But you’ll find a lot of high tech gadgetry like the sat-nav and connectivity for your handheld devices. The body panels come with contrasting colors and you have snazzy seat trims.
Well, it looks like the concept version could roll out in 2009 and it also looks like it could command a premium price. All in all, it promises a very comfortable drive.
