Citroën CXPerience concept embodies Be Different, Feel Good in large hatch segment

Citroën showcases a the CXPerience concept, which brings a fresh approach to the large hatchback segment.  The company is not new to this, with cars like the classic DS and more recently DS5 – these are large cars, yet disguised hatchbacks.

The exceptional new body style is a step forward that marks a new offensive in the brand strategy.  “The bold lines express power, while the generous curves express the car’s own stylistic language”.

Inspired by the high-tech world

The Citroën CXPerience concept is said to be inspired by the high-tech world.

The new front end, grille and updated signature headlights create a unique style.  The chevrons accentuate the vehicle's width with the chrome-finish bar angling out to the headlights.  The V-shaped daytime running lights (DRLs) give the car a high-tech look, and are made up of fine 3mm-wide strips, with the indicators elegantly positioned in between.  Further down, the light signature is completed by 3 LED directional headlights.  For greater efficiency, the controlled air intakes are integrated in the front bumper.  Mobile flaps designed to open and close are positioned on either side of the vehicle to contribute to the aerodynamic performance on the road.

This innovative hatchback measures 4.85m long and 2m wide.  The very low roof of just 1.37m in height and short overhangs across a 3m wheelbase contribute to the Citroën CXPerience concept car’s flowing lines.  The pearlescent sea green "Mizuiro" bodywork is modern and relaxed, and sits on 5-spoke 22-inch wheels.

The rear end of the concept car also makes a statement with strongly marked wings and a concave rear window (as seen on Citroën production cars like the C6) with a moving fin for improved aerodynamics.

The 3D rear lights feature laser fibre-optics, and are also V-shaped.  The indicators are positioned in the centre under a slim one-way panel, giving the CXPerience concept a unique, high-tech identity.  The light system is fitted in a black technical block, and the lines follow the cut-out of the boot, underlining the width of this large hatchback.

An easy to use infotainment system allows passengers to control a range of functions.  A smartphone and mobile tablet can also be used to activate a range of controls, including starting the car and sharing media files with other passengers.

Inspired by architecture, decoration and furnishings

Inspired by architecture, decoration and furnishings, the cabin of CXPerience concept is a work of clean, contemporary lines. Featuring premium materials, it is decorated in a citrus yellow shade.  

To contrast the pearlescent sea green exterior colour the premium materials inside the car are a citrus yellow (sounds better than lemon yellow) shade, to create a fresh and assured ambience.  Erm, OK.  The seats are upholstered in a padded-effect yellow mesh fabric and the backrests feature an elegant shade of walnut wood.

Alongside the single-spoke steering wheel (a nod to the brand's history) the floating dashboard is horizontal in design.  It has a 3D appearance with a sculpted, tubular cut-out extending from the right rear door to the left rear door in a single piece.  This reinforces the immediate impression of space and lightness.

Considerable emphasis was placed on the design of the seats, which are upholstered in a padded-effect yellow mesh fabric.  The backrests feature an elegant light shade of walnut wood, similar to the dashboard.  Designed to resemble alcoves, the inner door panels are also made from high-quality materials including the sea-green geometric fabric which matches the body colour and contrasts with the interior ambience.  The flat foam floor is covered in dark, textured leather with a de-structured design, bordered by broad chrome-finish sills on either side.

Citroën Advanced Comfort programme

In line with the brand's know-how and heritage, this latest creation features the hallmark of Citroën vehicles.  CXPerience concept is the latest demonstration of the Citroën Advanced Comfort programme, designed for the comfort and well-being of all occupants.  Supporting the styling and technological development of new models, the programme reflects changing customer expectations, and kept into consideration at every stage in the design process.

The Citroën Advanced Comfort programme was fundamental in the design of the CXPerience concept, demonstrating how Citroën is delivering greater comfort derived from its modern vision and expertise in design.  Designed as a true "cocoon", CXPerience concept filters out the outside world along with the bumps and dips of the road, and employs a progressive hydraulic cushion advanced module (hydraulic suspension is an old Citroën favourite, modernised here).  This technology significantly improves the filtration system regardless of the defects in the road, ensuring outstanding driving comfort.  

Entirely focused on the well-being of the occupants, this large executive hatchback conveys an impression of immediate “intense ultra-comfort” for driver and passengers.

With wide windows and two sunroofs running the full length of the car, the ambient lighting and air purifier also contribute to making the cabin a "Feel Good" area.

Plug-in hybrid solution for a relaxed drive

The emphasis on intelligent technology can also be seen in the choice of a plug-in hybrid solution for a relaxed drive.

The 8-speed electric automatic gearbox is placed between the internal combustion engine and the electric motor, and a compact battery is positioned under the cabin to deliver electric power to the rear axle.  This ensures both passenger space and boot capacity.

This plug-in hybrid solution allows drivers and passengers to enjoy a new driving experience whereby they can travel from city centres to the most isolated areas without restriction, receiving exceptional dynamic performances as a direct result of the additional energy from the electric motor, while also respecting the environment.

Be Different, Feel Good

This concept car brings together the Citroën slogan Be Different, Feel Good in a new way, and looking at the company’s bold (sometimes out-there) car designs, this could very well be the future of a car we see today as the Citroën DS5.