Citroen Cactus concept revealed

Here's a smooth newcomer with a spiky mission for Citroen. As the French maker uses a style-driven push in Australia with its DS line, its Cactus concept is unveiled this week to preview the thinking behind a revitalisation of its mainstream C-Line models.

Citroen believes the design of the Cactus crossover is the look that will work for people who buy cars for transport, although it's not backing away from its aspiring-for-prestige position down under. It's not as outrageous as some recent sports car dream machines, but it's not just a boring box.

So Startari confirms that Citroen is working closely with Peugeot in Australia, dovetailing their lineups with the top end reserved for his DS models, as they work under the shared ownership of the Sime Darby group. "That's to stop cannibilisation in the PSA stable," he says.

Looking closer at the Cactus, Startari sees potential for Australia even though the Frankfurt motor show car is revealed with left-hand drive. "Citroen has tended to go into production with the majority of its concepts, so . ," hints Startari.

"It's too early to determine if it will come to Australia. But we've a hot, dry country and there is a certain resonance." Among the design work on the Cactus is a 'driver's station' with controls in a fully-digital interface, sofa-style front seats, natural materials and what Citroen calls 'non-aggressive flowing surfaces' for the body.

Technology work starts with lightweight body panels, 'airbumps' to protect the body, and a hybrid drivetrain - incorporating compressed air and hydraulics - that promises 2.5 litres/100km economy.

This reporter is on Twitter: @paulwardgover