Citroen Concept Hints at 'Fun' SUV Inspired by Mehari

The Cactus M “illustrates the potential of the C4 Cactus as the basis for new models,” Citroen said in a statement on Wednesday. The concept will be unveiled at the Frankfurt auto show on Sept 15.

Citroen said the Cactus M, which is painted in striking Hawaii Blue, was “inspired by the surfing spirit.”

The Mehari’s influence on the Cactus M is seen in its open roof, as well as the visible door hinges and its molded plastic one-piece doors. The Mehari had plastic bodywork.

Like the original Mahari, which was built from 1968 to 1988, the Cactus M is intended as a “go anywhere” lifestyle vehicle.

Its Grip Control function has four modes: normal, all-terrain, snow or sand. The cabin can be hosed down, thanks to the drainage outlets integrated in the foot wells. It has an inflatable roof that can also be stretched over the back of the car to create a tent. The rear seats fold down to make a bed.

The car is given SUV toughness by making the windscreen more upright and thickening the A-pillars. The use of tall and narrow tires from Bridgestone made it possible to increase wheel diameter, resulting in an increased body height, Citroen said. Sculpted wheel arches reinforce the tall appearance.

The Cactus M is the second compact SUV concept Citroen has shown based on the C4 Cactus hatchback following the unveiling of the Aircross concept at the Shanghai auto show in April.

Citroen CEO Linda Jackson told Automotive News Europe earlier this year that she could imagine reviving the Mehari as a “fun”car.