[Retrospective] Citroën Cactus M: the concept that reinvents the modern adventure

As the Cactus M concept car celebrates its 10th anniversary this year, it's worth taking a look back at its origins. Unveiled a decade ago, just months after the launch of the production C4 Cactus, Citroën surprised everyone with this rather unexpected concept car. Far from being a mere variation, this concept radically transformed the small SUV into a decidedly likeable convertible, capable of remarkably combining the brand's bold heritage with a resolutely modern vision of leisure motoring. The Cactus M wasn't just a styling exercise; it was an invitation to escape, a nod to the past that built a bridge to the future.

A unique style that combines heritage and modernity

The Cactus M concept was based on the production C4 Cactus platform, but with major changes that gave it a more adventurous and outdoorsy personality. Externally, the most striking difference was, of course, the absence of a conventional roof. The Cactus M had an open body that immediately evoked freedom and leisure. The front doors, which were longer than those of the production model, reinforced this relaxed appearance, as did the more sloping windscreen, which was reminiscent of certain timeless silhouettes. The Airbumps, the C4 Cactus's strong visual signature, were reinterpreted here with long capsules instead of the small ones on the production version, suggesting light protection while asserting a sleek style.

The concept takes the idea of adventure right down to the smallest detail: steps integrated into the sides to facilitate access to the rear, wheels with a specific design and wooden elements, particularly around the windscreen and rear, which add a nautical and warm touch. The absence of a hardtop was compensated for by an ingenious system: an inflatable hood that could also be converted into a tent, demonstrating the functional and versatile aspect of the concept. A single windscreen wiper completed this original exterior image, adding a touch of minimalist ingenuity.

Inside, the Cactus M continued this theme of leisure and practicality. The cabin was designed to be durable and easy to live with, especially after a day at the beach or outdoor activities. Materials used, such as waterproof neoprene for the seats and door panels, allowed quick cleaning with water. Drains integrated into the floor made it easy to rinse the cabin - a rare and particularly well thought-out feature for a vehicle intended for 'beach use'. The rear bench seat, which could be inflated into a bed or used as a support for a surfboard passing through the cabin, perfectly illustrated the concept's uninhibited and functional approach. The design remained simple, true to the Cactus spirit, but enriched with practical details and a decidedly leisure-oriented ambience.

From Méhari to Cactus M: adventure rediscovered

The inspiration behind the Cactus M concept was clear and unmistakable: the legendary Citroën Méhari. Launched in 1968, the Méhari was the embodiment of the leisure car: simple, light, versatile, with a durable plastic (ABS) body and a completely uninhibited spirit. It symbolised freedom, holidays and affordable adventure. The Cactus M was a direct continuation of this tradition, applying this philosophy to a modern car based on a contemporary platform. The open bodywork, the waterproof materials and the ability to be washed down with plenty of water - all evoked the practical and simple spirit of the Méhari.

Although the Cactus M had no direct production descendant in this convertible form, its influence was crucial for the brand. It served as a laboratory of ideas, particularly in the use of innovative materials and the design of an ultra-practical leisure interior. More importantly, the concept allowed Citroën to reclaim the theme of adventure and escape. Historically, Citroën has been at the forefront of major expeditions (Croisière Jaune, Croisière Noire) and has always been associated with a certain audacity and ability to think outside the box. The Cactus M, with its laid-back spirit and ability to take its occupants on new experiences, reintroduced this "adventure" dimension into the brand's recent DNA, adding a modern touch of leisure, fun and freedom. In a way, it paved the way for the ë-Méhari, an electric vehicle that appeared some time later and was an even more direct reinterpretation of the icon, albeit on a different technical basis.

With the Cactus M concept, Citroën clearly broke new ground: a modern cabriolet resolutely focused on leisure and adventure, while drawing inspiration from the priceless heritage of the Méhari. This concept demonstrated the brand's ability to innovate and offer distinctive, practical and personalised automotive solutions, far removed from conventional standards.

Although the Cactus M itself never reached mass production, as is often the case with the most daring concepts, its spirit and the ideas it embodied could well find recognition in the future. Traces of its audacity and uninhibited spirit can be found in more recent offerings, such as the buggy version of the Ami, proving that this relaxed and functional approach continues to inspire the brand. Thierry Koskas, Citroën's current CEO, has repeatedly emphasised the brand's intention to build on its legendary heritage to offer innovative and accessible solutions in the short term. In this context, the Cactus M, with its reinterpretation of the Méhari spirit and its focus on clever simplicity and relaxed adventure, could well be seen in retrospect as a major precursor. It embodies an approach to motoring that focuses on utility, conviviality and escape - values that resonate strongly with contemporary aspirations. The Cactus M concept may not have gone into production, but it sowed important seeds for the Citroën of tomorrow, a future where heritage is used as a springboard for innovation and intelligent, human-centred automotive solutions.