New DS 4 PureTech Performance Line – First Drive Review
New DS 4 PureTech – First Drive Review.
DS Automobiles Ireland has proudly launched a new generation hatchback to their model line-up. The new DS 4 is challenging and captivating with its dramatic proportions, charismatic appearance and muscular stance. Inside, augmented technology is at one with the cockpit for an exquisitely pure design that is both high-tech and user-friendly to deliver a serene driving experience.
Eye-Catching Good Looks.
Large wheels, an aesthetic silhouette and an aerodynamic profile blend perfectly with the lines of the DS 4 to provide the five-door, five-seat hatchback with eye-catching good looks. At the rear, its sculpted lights perfectly match its elegant shapes, for a striking, spectacular identity. Inspired by both the characteristics of an SUV Coupé and those of a compact saloon, the DS 4 provides drivers with the best of both worlds, with many customisation options available for ultimate personalisation. The cabin of the DS 4 delivers a refined and serene experience thanks to the integration of a 10-inch HD touchscreen into the dashboard, its E-TOGGLE gear control, its stylish electric window controls and its integrated DS AIR vents. To enhance the interior of the DS 4, designers have chosen original materials such as forged carbon, brown ash and full-grain or Nappa leather in the DS signature watchstrap design.
Trim & Engine Options.
The DS 4 range is enriched with two versions: DS 4, which exalts comfort and refinement (Bastille +, Trocadero and Rivoli trim variants) and DS 4 Performance Line, for those with a sporting spirit (Performance Line, and Performance Line + trim variants). Powering the new DS 4 are fuel-efficient petrol (PureTech) and diesel (Blue HDI) engines, along with an impressive petrol/electric plug-in hybrid (E-TENSE PHEV) powertrain that offers low emissions, low fuel consumption, high performance and terrific refinement. Petrol engines consist of a 1.2-litre with 130bhp or a 1.6-litre (Rivoli model only) with a choice of 180bhp or 225bhp, while turbo-diesel power comes courtesy of a 1.5-litre unit with 130bhp in Performance Line and Trocadero trim variants. The technologically-advanced plug-in hybrid system in the DS 4 produces 225bhp, and is available in all but entry-level Bastille + trim. All engine and trim variants come with a slick-shifting eight-speed (EAT-8) automatic transmission as standard for ease of drivability.
Test Car Details.
I recently had the opportunity to partake in a 24-hour test drive in a DS 4 Performance Line PureTech model, and it gave me a great insight into just how amazing the latest offering from DS Automobiles really is. Producing 130bhp and 230Nm of torque, the car can sprint from 0-100km/h in 10.9-seconds, on its way to a top speed of 209km/h (where permitted), with fuel consumption as low as 5.8l/100km possible on a WLTP combined driving cycle. With an overall length of 4.4 metres, and width of 1.87 metres, the DS4 belies the impressive interior spaciousness that awaits occupants. A 2.675 metre wheelbase provides generous leg and head room for up to five adults, while the 430-litre boot volume on offer in the in the DS 4 can be easily expanded to 1.240-litres when the rear seats are folded down. Standard specification in my Performance Line test car included Black Alcantara™ interior trim, 19-inch ‘Minneapolis’ alloy wheels, gloss black front grille and DS WINGS, dark tinted rear windows, black upper window surround, perforated leather steering wheel with Performance Line stitching and forged carbon insert, front & rear parking sensors, reversing camera with 180-degree vision, flush-fitting door handles, keyless start, LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, Mirror Screen with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, 10-inch touchscreen, 7-inch digital instrument cluster, front & rear central armrests, and a 7-speaker sound system, along with many more comfort, convenience, and safety systems. The DS 4 is available in a choice of seven striking colour options, with the option of a Perla Nera Black roof for added visual drama.
Modified Platform.
The DS 4 uses the same third-generation EMP2 platform that is used across other brands in its Stellantis Group parent company portfolio, but 70% of it has been modified to meet various specific DS 4 requirements. My test car performed in a smooth and refined manner when cruising at motorway speeds, and it tackled city streets in an equally composed manner too. Accurate steering, good levels of grip, and peppy performance from the 1.2-litre petrol engine – along with supremely comfortable seats – indicate to me that the DS brand is well on its way to premium level status.
Verdict & Pricing.
With its blend of stylish and distinctive looks, a high-quality and logically laid-out cabin, and generous levels of standard equipment, the new DS 4 is a credible premium hatchback in every respect. The DS 4 is priced from €37,295 (including dealer delivery-related charges) and is available to view at the DS Store at Gowan Motors, Navan Road, Dublin 15 now, or visit www.dsautomobiles.ie for further information. I will be conducting a full road-test review of the new DS 4 over the coming months.
