The elegant design lines of the C-Métisse, the latest out-of-this-world concept car from Citroën, will be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this month. Exceptionally stylish and powerful, the C-Métisse proves that a high performance car can also be green, combining a top speed of 155mph with the ability to cover around 45 miles per gallon on the combined cycle.

Crammed with hi-tech innovations and neat touches, the C-Métisse explores new paths in car design and driving pleasure. Breathtakingly good looking, this model combines coupé styling with 4-door practicality thanks to the show-stopping gull-wing front
and rear doors.

In particular, the C-Métisse has been developed to offer outstanding environmental credentials. It boasts an economical HDi V6 diesel engine, coupled with an acclaimed Diesel Particulate Filter System, and two separate electric motors on the rear wheels, capable of developing a massive 400Nm of additional torque. Around town the new concept car can even run in Zero Emission Vehicle (ZEV) mode.

Both outside and in, the C-Métisse takes styling to another level. The front doors open gull-wing style, while the rear doors spin round to provide outstanding accessibility for a car of such a low height. The large, eye-catching alloy wheels have been specially designed, with central wheel nuts hinting at the model’s sporting nature.

Once inside the ‘aircraft-style cockpit’, occupants are enveloped by the extremely comfortable, individual white leather seats, and are surrounded by smart leather trim and aluminium inserts. Each of the passengers benefits from independent air conditioning controls, individual roof lighting and plenty of space.

A combination of the diesel hybrid power unit, optimised aerodynamics and reduced weight ensure that the C-Métisse offers outstanding levels of performance, fuel economy and a healthy respect for the environment - the C-Métisse can return around 45 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 174g/km.

The C-Métisse is focused on providing real driver pleasure and sets extremely high standards for out-of-town driving, as demonstrated by a stunning 0-62 mph acceleration time of just 6.2 seconds and impressive mid-range performance that sees this remarkable concept accelerate from 50-75mph in 4.2 seconds.