DS 4 revealed, Stellantis merger explained
Is the DS 4 another parts-bin mash-up? Mais non, insists DS.
CLEAN AND SIMPLE
Not convinced DS is anything more than a way of repackaging bits from Citroëns and charging more for them? The new DS 4 could be the car to change your mind. DS is particularly proud of the interior, which gives the 4 its premium air as it goes into battle with hatchbacks and premium crossovers ranging from the BMW 1-series to the imminent Alfa Tonale.
The cabin is super-clean, with the side vents moved from the dash to the doors and the centre vents concealed in a blade. Refreshingly, the main heating functions have physical buttons, including one-touch shortcuts for instant heating and cooling.
LOOK SHARP
Inspired by DS’s ASL concept, the 4’s bonnet is long and low, the front and rear screens are raked, and the C-pillar/rear wheelarch area is unique. At the front, the grille has slimmer lights than other DSs and more pronounced vertical LED DRLs.
WINNING FORMULA
Two-time Formula E champion DS says there’s a lot of Formula E know-how in every car – even ones that aren’t available in full-electric form, like the 4, where your choice is combustion engine or E-Tense plug-in hybrid. All have automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. The PHEV will have a 178bhp 1.6-litre turbo four, plus a 108bhp electric motor. DS claims an electric-only range of around 30 miles.
It will be available later this year. Prices are yet to be announced; expect higher than Citroën C4, lower than Merc GLA. There are two versions – the Cross has roof bars and other faux-4x4 touches – although mechanically they’re the same. There’s also a Performance Line version, with its own carbonfibre-intensive interior.