Pure, simple and laid-back, but without stinting on sophistication, the Citroën Lacoste concept car takes us another step forward towards the car of the future – a vehicle aimed at putting an end to the “always more” mantra that tends to hold sway in the automotive industry. The new model also fuels Citroën’s thinking on focusing on the essentials to create original cars that are simple and virtuous but big on emotional appeal. Sweeping away preconceived ideas on compact cars, the Citroën Lacoste proudly asserts that another way forward is possible. It makes car travel an all-new experience and an adventure for the senses, bringing a lighter and fresher approach to life.

Two names, Citroën and Lacoste, have come together with a shared vision to cultivate boldness, creativity and optimism. Resolutely Citroën and yet typically Lacoste, the Marque’s new concept car is positioned at the crossroads where the automobile and fashion and sport worlds meet, making a number of references to these two last sectors. Some of the concept car’s details allude to the sporting universe of the crocodile brand, as in the square-shaped relief designs on the bonnet that look like part of a tennis net. Like a wardrobe of different clothes, accessories and fabrics, the Citroën Lacoste concept plays with a range of colours and materials to heighten the intensity of the meeting between the two brands.

Stylishly minimalist and elegantly laid-back, the Citroën Lacoste boasts an off-beat sporty silhouette with a high waistline, bulging, textured wings, minimum overhang, and golf ball-style rims on wheels placed in the furthest corners of the body. The car appeals with its “open” physique, promising a fulfilling drive while expressing a wealth of inventiveness and elegance. In its own fashion, the concept car explores the idea of augmented reality, in which perception takes on new sharpness and the senses are enhanced.

The Citroën Lacoste has no need for a huge engine to deliver driving thrills. It is powered by an ecological and economical three-cylinder petrol engine with all the performance required for a vehicle of this size. The powerplant perfectly matches the essentials-oriented approach of the concept car. The Citroën Lacoste respects the environment through its engine but also through its design choices. Even with its large wheels, the Citroën Lacoste seems to “embrace” rather than confront nature. This approach suggests Citroën Lacoste drivers are playing with the elements for more fun.

For more fun, simplicity and elegance, the emphasis inside is on traditional colours like white and deep blue, enlivened with touches of ultra-bright yellow. The cabin contains numerous storage areas for enhanced travelling comfort. The compartments are discreetly located, under the ends of the dashboard and in the two benches. The seats are also overstitched in white cotton, with a weave closely resembling that of the iconic Lacoste polo shirt. Cabin access couldn’t be easier, since the doors have been replaced by broad cut-outs in perfect harmony with the body styling.

The technology on board the Citroën Lacoste concept car is also of a playful nature, underlining the seeming paradox between design expertise and lightness of tone. The car has no fixed roof. In its place is a T-shaped structure that helps passengers access the vehicle and also features an auto-inflatable hood. In a similar register, the fascia strip on the dashboard serves as the car’s display screen, with oversized pixels conveying driving information. Behind this naïve appearance lie cutting-edge technologies. Even the front and rear lights are discreet to the point of invisible when off, concealed under the car’s navy blue skin. As well as providing visual purity, this design choice delivers a magical light spectacle.