DS Automobiles is accelerating its development with DS 4. Built on a reliable base with unique and world-renowned expertise in the field of electrification, the new Premium C offering is employing refinement and the latest in engineering to win new fans. DS 4 has remarkable proportions. With a benchmark width of 1.83 metres and large 720-millimetre wheels (alloys up to 20 inches), for a compact length of 4.40 metres and a roof height of 1.47 metres, the dimensions appear impressive with a memorably imposing presence. DS 4 was conceived to redefine the outline of the Premium C segment. The front is characterised by a new light signature. The very slim projector headlamps feature the DS MATRIX LED VISION system that combines matrix and directional lighting. They are complemented by Daytime Running Lights made up of two lines of LEDs on either side (98 LEDs in total). The DS WINGS link the headlamps to the grille. Depending on the version, this is made up of two parts with diamond tip motifs, in graduated sizes, that stand out in a three-dimensional grille. Above it, the long bonnet gives movement to make the silhouette appear dynamic.
DS 4 can be transformed within the same silhouette. With DS 4 the core of the range, elegance is the dominating factor thanks to a design with special bumpers, subtle chrome touches and a roof in contrasting black that gives an imposing, athletic stance. The profile combines fluidity and sharp lines. The flush fitting door handles go with sculpted surfaces on the sides. The ratio of the bodywork to the large diameter wheels (including a 20-inch offering with aero inserts) comes from the DS AERO SPORT LOUNGE concept, displaying an imposing and unique presence. DS 4 CROSS plays on the visual perception of an SUV with a treatment to the lower part of the bumper emphasised by special protection and matt black paint. The gloss black upper parts to the side window frames, gloss black grille, distinctive alloy wheels, roof bars and a roof the same colour as the bodywork finishes it off. As an exclusive option, DS 4 CROSS gets Advanced Traction Control for improved grip with sand, snow and mud modes and Hill Assist Descent Control. More dynamic, DS 4 PERFORMANCE LINE has an exterior trimmed in black with a Black Pack and distinctive black alloy wheels as well as an exclusive interior.
The PureTech 130, 180 and 225 horsepower petrol versions and a 130 horsepower Diesel BlueHDi version will also be offered. All these models will only get the 8-speed automatic gearbox. DS 4 also has a wide range of particularly efficient multi-energy versions, provided by first-class aerodynamic solutions. Double Formula E champion in 2019 and 2020, DS Automobiles is at the cutting edge of electrification. The new version of the EMP2 platform was conceived to accommodate a new generation plug-in hybrid drivetrain without compromising usability and boot space. A turbocharged 180 horsepower 4-cylinder engine is paired with a 110 horsepower electric motor and an e-EAT8 gearbox, for a combined 225 horsepower. It’s powered by a more efficient battery with new, more compact and larger capacity cells located behind the deformable beam and giving a range of more than 50 kilometres in zero emissions mode (WLTP combined cycle). DS AIR: invisible airvent is an innovative ventilation system with very compact central vents high up and fitted with blades that can’t be seen.
For DS 4, operation is improved with three new features: semi-automatic overtaking, speed adjustment for corners and anticipated speed recommendations from signposts. Already offered on DS 3 CROSSBACK, DS 7 CROSSBACK and DS 9, level 2 semi-autonomous driving – the highest level that’s allowed on the road at the moment – has had a major update for DS 4 with DS DRIVE ASSIST 2.0. The cruise control adapts speed depending on the traffic flow with the ability to stop and restart in traffic jams. The system also ensures precise car positioning in the lane of the driver’s choice. The steering wheel features a grip sensor that continually checks if the driver is active because they should always be in control. The new “Radar Corners” enable other functions such as long-distance blind spot monitoring (with a range of 75m) and rear traffic warning to avoid a collision with a hazard in the blind spot. DS Automobiles is also about the concept of dynamic serenity. With DS 4, it translates into class leading ride. One of the strong points is the DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION controlled damping, exclusive to the segment by using a camera. This is positioned at the top of the windscreen, views and anticipates irregularities in the road surface and transmits the data to a computer.
For connectivity, the priority was to provide a solution so the driver no longer had to take their eyes off the road, an indisputable safety benefit. Called DS EXTENDED HEAD-UP DISPLAY, this avant-garde visual experience is a first step towards augmented reality. With a new immersive technology, vital driving information is projected directly onto the road. Using an optical illusion, data is displayed four metres ahead of the windscreen diagonally following the driver’s gaze at 21-inches, never witnessed before in the segment. Controlled by voice and gesture, DS IRIS SYSTEM incorporates a personal assistant capable of recognising what’s said to it so that the system can carry out requests. This sensory and experiential technology is part of a wider offering, at the heart of a completely re-imagined 10-inch infotainment system, DS IRIS SYSTEM. The new interface takes the usability of a smartphone with a tactile, seamless and responsive interface based around the idea of profiles that can be completely personalised with icons. The settings and display load automatically on start-up. The idea behind personalisation is to enable everyone to adjust the content to their requirements.
