“Just what is it?” will likely be the first question anyone asks about the new, second-generation DS 4. Although Citroen’s upmarket DS Automobiles offshoot first emerged in 2009, then became a standalone brand in 2015, this mildly eccentric French car manufacturer will still be unfamiliar to many.
This is not necessarily a bad thing, as it allows cars like the new DS 4 to be judged on their own merits, rather than just being viewed as posh Citroens. Being part of the Stellantis automotive empire, the DS 4 is actually built on the same German production line as the latest Vauxhall Astra.
This allows DS to offer a plug-in hybrid E-Tense model, alongside conventional petrol and diesel versions. Electrification is a key part of the future plan for DS, meaning the E-Tense has an important role to play.
Gaul of the wild
Pigeonholing the DS 4 isn’t easy, it being somewhere between a premium family hatchback and a crossover SUV. It means the car has a wide range of rivals, from the BMW 1 Series to the Cupra Formentor. Vive la différence.
The DS 4 range includes three distinct ‘Style Treatments’, with the regular version joined by the racy Performance Line and a high-riding Cross model. The latter is closer to being a true SUV, with a raised ride height and rugged body protection. Multiple trim levels are offered for each ‘Style’, but all are comprehensively equipped.
There’s no denying the DS 4 looks dramatic, with plenty of sharp angles, a large front grille and a swooping roofline. Huge daytime running lights, featuring 150 LEDs each, add to its visual presence. Details such as laser-etched tail lights, flared wheelarches (able to accommodate 20-inch wheels) and flush pop-out door handles complete the effect.
Haute couture cabin
The sense of occasion continues inside, with a haute couture interior that can appear overwhelming at first. For instance, the electric window switches are so neatly integrated into the door design that they can be hard to find, while the console-mounted DS Smart Touch display takes time to fathom.
The seven-inch digital dashboard and 10-inch multimedia touchscreen are more successful, with most versions gaining a useful head-up display. A comprehensive range of safety equipment is standard, with night vision cameras available for £1,500.
Space in the front of the DS 4 is generous, although the rear will feel tight for adults. Boot capacity is between a hatchback and a crossover SUV, with 410 litres on offer – or 390 litres for the E-Tense driven here.
When noise annoys
The E-Tense plug-in hybrid system combines a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor. A total output of 225hp makes for swift performance, with the 0-62mph dash taking 7.7 seconds.
Around town, the DS 4 E-Tense defaults to electric mode, and can travel 38 miles on battery power alone at lower speeds. Charging the 12.4kWh battery takes one hour and 55 minutes using a 7kW home wallbox.
Undoing much of the DS 4’s premium image is the rowdy transition when the hybrid system brings the petrol engine blaring into life. It takes time before actually delivering power, and the hesitant eight-speed automatic gearbox doesn’t always help. At least the acoustic laminated glass fitted to higher-spec models reduces interior noise.
A modern magic carpet
Ride quality feels more aligned with the DS 4’s luxury ambitions, with an optional Active Scan system adding to the effect. This uses sensors and a camera to monitor the road for bumps, adjusting the suspension accordingly. It works well, and the overall effect is calm and cosseting. Much like an old Citroen with hydropneumatic suspension, in fact.
Priced from £39,550, the DS 4 isn’t an straightforward car to categorise. However, with its striking looks, interesting interior and refined ride, it does enough to justify a luxurious image.
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