By Breda Corrigan
DS Automobiles Ireland has proudly introduced a stunning new hatchback to their model line-up. The new DS 4 captivates the senses 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. The DS 4’s interior really is exquisite, and is remarkably well engineered. From the hand-stitched leather steering wheel to the plush dashboard, it feels every bit as upmarket as premium competitors from Mercedes-Benz and BMW. While touchscreen displays can be distracting to navigate through when on the move, the DS 4 offers drivers an ingenious solution by way of a second smaller touchscreen positioned low down on the centre console. This is easier to reach and can be used for operating the main navigation system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the range, and all DS 4 models come with two USB-C ports in the front, while most also come with two in the back.
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. 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. 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
Test Car.
My test car was a DS 4 Performance Line + (Plus) 1.6 PureTech (Petrol), which was finished in stunning Pearl Velvet Red metallic paintwork with a Perla Nera Black Bi-Tone Roof. The sporty black theme is enhanced even further by way of 19-inch ‘Minneapolis’ alloy wheels and two-tone door mirror casings. Producing 180bhp and 250Nm of torque, the car can sprint from 0-100km/h in a sprightly 8.0-seconds, on its way to a top speed of 230km/h (where permitted), with fuel consumption as low as 6.4l/100km (44.1 MPG) possible on a WLTP combined driving cycle. The light and precise steering in the DS 4 ensures that the car is easy to manoeuvre around town, and the cars’ slick-shifting automatic transmission makes driving on city streets a doddle. The cars’ soft suspension set-up makes it one of the most comfortable cars in its class, enabling it to tackle road imperfections and potholes in a composed manner. Cruising at motorway speeds in the DS 4 brings a real sense of calm with it, and the refined feeling inside the car is enhanced by the supremely comfortable seats and acoustic insulated glazing throughout the car. The four-cylinder petrol engine is punchy and refined in equal manner, while a good level of grip in corners allows for spirited performance on twisty back roads. 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 test car included Basalt Black leather interior trim, gloss black front grille and DS WINGS, dark tinted rear windows, black upper window surround, Fleur Leather multi-function steering wheel, front & rear parking sensors, reversing camera with 180-degree vision, pop-out flush-fitting door handles, keyless start, DS MATRIX LED VISION headlights, DS 3D LED rear lights, LED daytime running lights, Mirror Screen with Apple CarPlay™ and Android Auto™, 10-inch touchscreen, 7-inch digital instrument cluster, front & rear central armrests, DS DRIVE ASSIST (semi-autonomous driving, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go, and Lane Positioning Assist), Rear Cross Traffic Alert, remote central locking with deadlocking, perimetric & volumetric alarm system, electric tailgate, acoustic windscreen, laminated acoustic insulated front & rear glazing, and a 7-speaker sound system, along with many more comfort, convenience, and safety features. The DS 4 is available in a choice of six striking colours, with the option of a Perla Nera Black roof for added visual drama.
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 family hatchback in every respect. The DS 4 is priced from €39,390 (including dealer delivery-related charges), with my test car specification priced at €54,540.
