We Don't Copy Other Manufacturers

We test-drove the Citroen DS5, a unique long-roof hatchback. Both the interior and exterior are meticulously crafted, making it a model we'd recommend especially to design enthusiasts.

As the manufacturer openly states, "We don't copy other manufacturers' designs," the DS5 is characterized by a distinctive styling that is recognizable at first glance. The silhouette, with its long roofline tapering towards the rear, the body panels incorporating complex curves, and the various garnishes, all contribute to a striking design.



Peugeot Citroen Japon, the local subsidiary, states that it is difficult to easily define the target user for the DS5. For example,Audi A4 AvantandVolvo V60are considered rivals, as are station wagons with strong individual character.

In a word, the impression upon driving is that the DS5 is not simply a car with an elaborate design.

It's surprisingly agile. The 1.6-liter turbo engine with a maximum output of 156ps should be a familiar powerplant, but it powerfully propels the front wheels through a 6-speed automatic transmission. While there are no particular changes in torque delivery or engine feel compared to previous models, this DS5 left a stronger impression than any model I've driven before.

Exclusive Development Model

The DS5 is the third model in the DS line, which Citroen defines as "a new premium car category unlike any before," following the "DS3" introduced in Japan in 2010 and the "DS4" in 2011. While the DS3 had the "C3" and the DS4 had the "C4" as their respective base models, the DS5 is the only one developed exclusively.

The DS5's platform, with its long wheelbase of 2,725mm, is a stretched version of the "C5." However, as the name "exclusive development" suggests, it employs a conventional suspension system with metal springs and dampers, unlike the Hydractive system used in the C5, which utilizes hydraulic fluid and nitrogen gas.

The powerplant is a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo jointly developed by PSA and BMW Group, widely used in Peugeot and Citroen vehicles. It produces a maximum output of 156ps. This is paired withPeugeot 508an Aisin-made 6-speed automatic transmission, also used in the Peugeot 508. The model being introduced is the "Chic," equipped with this drivetrain.



While this alone might not seem particularly novel, the driving experience was surprisingly impressive due to the refined feel of the drivetrain. The engine's feel was better than any other car I'd experienced with the same engine, and the torque felt evenly distributed across all RPM ranges, providing strong acceleration from low to high revs.

Peugeot Citroen Japon states that there were "no particular changes reported" for this engine. This suggests that refinement is the key. Even minor adjustments to intake and exhaust components can dramatically alter an engine's character, and the DS5 benefits significantly from this.

Testing the Mountain Roads of Hakone

The ride of the DS5 is somewhat firm. Upon setting off, I noticed that it tended to pick up on road imperfections too readily, both at low and high speeds. I wondered if this was due to the character of the Michelin tires. At the same time, the steering response felt a bit too sensitive, perhaps a slightly sporty tuning.

However, this made cornering enjoyable, and I was able to drive briskly on the mountain roads of Hakone, which served as the test course. As you know, Hakone features a combination of complex curves, with relatively long straight sections between some of them. This allows for a variety of driving experiences.



Actively using the manual shift function on the AT gate, I found the handling, braking, and acceleration to be impressively high-level when exiting corners and entering the next one.

However, since the DS5 is not fundamentally a sports car, even with its manual shift capability, the gaps between 2nd and 3rd gears are somewhat wide, as is common with European cars. After enjoying strong acceleration in 2nd gear, shifting up can result in a gear that's too high, diminishing the sense of power. This is something you're unlikely to experience in everyday driving, so perhaps it's best to consider it a minor point.

Inspired by Aircraft

The true strength of the DS5 likely lies in its design. As a designer from the headquarters commented, "We had many ideas. The difficult part was choosing." Both the interior and exterior are remarkably elaborate.

The body panels are a complex interplay of lines and surfaces, allowing for a deep appreciation of its sculpted beauty depending on the body color. Additionally, the chrome garnish, which Citroen calls a "saber," running from the hood to the windshield, is eye-catching.

Chrome parts are difficult to manage in terms of quality, and given that it's "the longest part in a mass-produced car" (Citroen), the technology required to produce it without dullness or scratches is remarkable. Even more commendable is the bold decision to incorporate it in the first place. From a functional perspective, the presence of the saber might be questionable, but it's the risks taken that make cars interesting.



Turning to the interior, the dashboard design and the toggle switches on the ceiling, which the interior designer described as "inspired by aircraft," allow for the operation of various functions. The split sliding roof also evokes the cockpit of a helicopter.

The steering wheel, like the head console, is designed with an aircraft motif. Indeed, at the 9 and 3 o'clock positions, it resembles a control yoke. However, in practice, the long straight sections make it somewhat difficult to rotate smoothly like a circle when navigating tight corners. This might be an idea that didn't quite pan out.

The steeply raked windshield suppresses the height of the greenhouse, creating what designers call a "cave effect," where occupants peer out from a confined space. I personally find this aspect appealing.

Market Reception

A respected senior automotive journalist once said, "No fast car is remembered in history, but many cars are remembered for their design." Citroen's strategy of focusing on design for sales expansion is fascinating.

"It's difficult to balance style with aerodynamic efficiency (which contributes to good fuel economy). Nevertheless, we have established a unique design that is neither a saloon, nor a station wagon, nor a coupe," said the DS5 development manager.

The body, 260mm shorter than the C5, creates the visual effect of a longer hood and a more compact cabin due to the aforementioned saber garnish. However, the interior space is not particularly generous. The rear legroom, in particular, is just barely sufficient for a person of 175cm. While advertised as a "family car," it's not an SUV prioritizing space efficiency, but rather a crossover vehicle designed to delight automotive enthusiasts who value design.



The DS5 is also exported in large numbers to China, with plans for local production in the future. Hearing this, one might speculate whether the adoption of this distinctive design was influenced by pre-evaluation results indicating strong support from Chinese consumers.

Indeed, it seems to be highly regarded in China. However, cultural differences mean that tastes vary, and products must be adapted to succeed in the international market. This often necessitates a "story" that emphasizes uniqueness. Citroen's approach is not a direct confrontation but a strategic curveball, which is an interesting aspect of modern marketing.

Citroen DS5 Chic | Citroen DS5 Chic

Body Dimensions | Overall Length 4,535 x Overall Width 1,870 x Overall Height 1,510mm
Wheelbase | 2,725mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,580 / 1,605mm
Vehicle Weight | 1,550kg
Seating Capacity | 5 people
Engine | Inline 4-cylinder DOHC + Turbo
Total Displacement | 1,598cc
Bore x Stroke | 77.0 x 85.8mm
Compression Ratio | 11.3:1
Maximum Output | 115kW (156ps) / 6,000rpm
Maximum Torque | 240Nm (24.5kgm) / 1,400-3,500rpm
Transmission | 6-speed Automatic
Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive
Suspension Front/Rear | MacPherson Strut / Torsion Beam
Brakes Front/Rear | Ventilated Disc / Disc
Tires | 225/50 R17 (16, 18, 19-inch optional)
Wheels | 7.5J x 17
Price | 4,000,000 yen