1986 Citroen Zabrus (Bertone)

The partnership with Citroën, which came to an end two years later with the grand launch of the XM, represented an important development for Nuccio Bertone.

The work alongside the French manufacturer produced some experimental prototypes in line with the Bertone tradition, namely, creating prototypes which are not mere design exercises but fully-functioning concept cars with working mechanical components. The almost excessive styling of the Zabrus features some design solutions of great impact and which were very dear to Bertone, starting from the doors, which were designed to open forwards and upwards, a feature first seen on the 1968 Carabo and put into production on the Lamborghini Countach (1971). The on-board instrumentation is a futuristic example of multi-functional electronic controls set into a very innovative dashboard. The front seats rotate outwards to ease access, while the driving seat is automatically positioned by means of a system of infra-red beams in order to give the driver maximum visibility. Yet despite its aggressive look, this is a car which by no means compromises on passenger space and comfort.