C42: Citroen’s New Showroom for Concept, Historical Vehicles

Although they succeed in showing current product, most dealer showrooms don’t serve as a gallery for the latest concept cars. Nor do they offer insight into the company’s history. Citroen’s latest showroom, however, is an exception. The C42, located in the heart of Paris, offers visitors a glimpse at the latest concepts and their favorite Citroens of the past.

Located along the Champs-Elysées, C42 is itself a mixture of Citroen’s past and future. Although technically the first ‘new’ building on the famed avenue since 1975, C42 itself has been owned by the marque since 1928, previously serving as a functioning dealership. The entire facility has been thoroughly re-worked by French architect Manuelle Gautrand to become a modern, airy structure that also links to the brand’s image (we dare you to find all the hidden chevrons).

(Click the photos below to launch a high-res gallery, or follow the jump to read more about C42.)

But it’s what inside that counts. C42’s first exhibition, entitled “Sustainable Innovation,” focuses on the revolutions in design and engineering that have become closely associated with the brand. Along with examples including the Traction Avant, 2CV and the shapely DS, modern concepts - notably the C-Métisse and C-Airplay, are on display. Only three production vehicles, including the new C-Crosser sport utility and the C4 Picasso MPV, currently reside on the showroom floor.

Visitors are treated to a host of interactive displays involving the vehicles, but are also invited to use a glass elevator for panoramic views of the cityscape. Bluetooth connectivity allows guests to download videos or request literature from their own cell phones.

C42 is open to the public seven days a week, with specific hours accessible at www.c42.fr. Displays are designed to be interchangeable, allowing for new vehicles to rotate through the showroom.

Let’s hear it - what vintage or concept Citroen would you love to see on display?