Shape of Tomorrow: How a Visionary French GT Changed Automotive Design Forever

When the Citroën SM debuted in 1970, it redefined what a grand tourer could be-blending French innovation with Italian performance in a way the automotive world had never seen before. With its Maserati-designed V6 engine, hydropneumatic suspension, and aerodynamic form, the SM was not simply a car but a bold statement of technological ambition and artistic intent. It stood apart from its contemporaries, offering a vision of motoring that prioritized comfort, intelligence, and design in equal measure.

The Shape of Tomorrow tells the complete story of this extraordinary machine, from Citroën's revolutionary engineering philosophy to its partnership with Maserati, its rise to international acclaim, and its eventual decline amid economic upheaval. Drawing on historical records, engineering insights, and the voices of enthusiasts, the book explores how the SM became both a masterpiece and a cautionary tale-an icon of innovation that pushed the limits of what was possible.

Today, the SM is celebrated not as a failure, but as one of the most daring and influential cars ever built. Its legacy lives on in design studios, restoration workshops, and the minds of those who continue to be inspired by its fearless vision. This book is an independent work of automotive history and analysis and is not affiliated with, authorized by, or endorsed by Citroën, Maserati, or any related trademark holders. All brand names and model names are used for descriptive and historical purposes only.