Hermès Restyles Citroën 2CV for 60th Anniversary at Paris Show
Citroën marked the 2CV’s 60th birthday at the 2008 Paris Motor Show with a one-off Hermès edition, featuring bespoke leather and canvas detailing throughout.
Citroën celebrated the 60th anniversary of the 2CV at the 2008 Paris Motor Show by unveiling a one-off model reimagined by Hermès. The French luxury house applied its signature materials and detailing to a late-model 2CV, giving the iconic car a new look for its milestone year.
Hermès design details for the 2CV
The car chosen for the project was a 1989 2CV 6 Spécial, repainted in a deep brown finish. Hermès focused on the interior, where natural leather covers the door panels, gear knob, steering wheel, driver’s sun visor and even the rear-view mirror housing. The seats are upholstered in Hermès’ signature grey-beige cotton canvas, combined with more natural leather for a two-tone effect. The rear interior trim and bonnet lining also feature Hermès canvas, tying the cabin together with a consistent material palette.
Hermès’ approach to the 2CV stayed close to the original spirit of the car, focusing on craftsmanship and simple materials rather than ostentatious luxury. The result was a 2CV that remained recognisable but gained a sense of exclusivity through its bespoke trim and attention to detail.
2CV’s ongoing appeal and Hermès collaborations
The 2CV’s 60th anniversary drew attention not only to the car’s longevity but also to its enduring cultural status. The Hermès edition was part of a wider celebration, including an exhibition at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie running from April to November 2008. While the Hermès 2CV remained a one-off, it echoed previous collaborations between the luxury brand and carmakers, such as the special Bugatti Veyron finished by Hermès.
- Natural leather trim on doors, steering wheel, gear knob, sun visor and mirror
- Seats and rear trim in Hermès cotton canvas and leather
- Brown exterior paint unique to this car
There was no suggestion that Citroën or Hermès would put the car into production. The collaboration was intended as a tribute, highlighting the 2CV’s friendly design and the potential for crossovers between mass-market icons and luxury craft. The car’s display at the Paris show and subsequent exhibition provided enthusiasts and the public with a rare opportunity to see the 2CV reinterpreted by one of France’s most famous luxury brands.
