The DS N°4 emerges as a sophisticated successor to the DS4, embodying the luxury aspirations of the DS brand. Positioned as a more compact version of the N°8 crossover, the DS N°4 exclusively features electrified powertrains, marking a significant step towards sustainable driving. Its success is crucial, as it could very well determine the future trajectory and viability of the DS brand itself.
DS, while not yet a household name in the United States, harbors ambitions of becoming the “Louis Vuitton” of the automotive world. As a luxury offshoot of Stellantis’ Citroen, DS is pivotal in the group’s strategy to elevate its market presence. The introduction of the N°4 follows the unveiling of the N°8 flagship, signaling a clear intent to capture a broader audience with a range of stylish, high-end vehicles. The N°4, an electrified crossover, represents a more accessible entry point into the DS luxury experience.
The DS N°4 offers a variety of electrified options to cater to different driving preferences and environmental concerns. These include a hybrid, a plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and a fully electric variant, all featuring front-wheel drive and sharing mechanical similarities with the Peugeot 308 and Opel Astra.
The hybrid version combines a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine producing 145 horsepower with a 28 hp electric motor. While it’s the least powerful of the three, DS claims that it can operate in EV mode for up to 50% of the time in urban settings. This offers a balance of efficiency and reduced emissions for city driving.
The plug-in hybrid variant delivers a significant power boost, pairing a 180 hp turbo engine with a 125 hp electric motor. This combination results in a peak combined power of 225 hp, enabling the N°4 PHEV to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph (100 km/h) in 7.1 seconds. Its 14.6 kWh battery pack provides an electric WLTP range of 50 miles (81 km), a 30% improvement over its predecessor. Charging is available at 3.7 kW as standard, with an optional 7.4 kW onboard charger that halves the charging time.
The fully electric N°4 E-Tense features a single 213 hp electric motor driving the front wheels. Its 58.3 kWh battery offers a claimed WLTP range of 280 miles (450 km). DS highlights a new, more efficient heat pump and three levels of brake regeneration to maximize efficiency. While its peak charging power is 120 kW, a 20 to 80% charge can be achieved in approximately 30 minutes, adding around 62 miles (100 km) of range every 10 minutes. The vehicle has also been lowered by 10 millimeters to improve aerodynamics, efficiency, and overall range.
DS is currently undergoing a significant transformation following its initial struggles to meet expectations. As part of its move upmarket, the brand is shifting away from traditional SUVs and embracing a retro-inspired design language reminiscent of iconic Citroens like the DS and SM. This strategic pivot aims to create a unique and appealing identity in the competitive luxury car market.
The DS SM Tribute concept offers a glimpse into the brand’s potential design direction, though DS has not confirmed whether such a model will enter production. As a Stellantis brand with fluctuating sales figures, DS faces ongoing scrutiny. Former Stellantis CEO Carlos Tavares had previously indicated a willingness to discontinue underperforming brands, including DS. However, with a new CEO at the helm, DS has been granted another opportunity to prove its profitability.
DS, along with Lancia, Maserati, and Chrysler, is under pressure to deliver compelling vehicles that resonate with consumers. The success of the DS N°4 will be a critical factor in determining whether the brand can achieve its ambitious goals and secure its long-term future within the Stellantis group. The N°4 represents a crucial test of DS’s ability to blend luxury, innovation, and sustainability in a package that appeals to a discerning clientele.
