A New Face for DS

DS became an independent brand from Citroën in its home country in 2014. The DS flagship, theDS 5DS 5, has been redesigned with a new face embodying the brand's identity.

The significantly changed front of the new DS 5 features a grille surrounded by three-dimensional chrome parts, with the edges seamlessly connecting to the headlights, creating the "DS Wings." This design, first seen in the concept carNumero 9, and then presented in the "Wild Rubis" andWild Rubis" DS 6WR" models, now defines the new DS brand's design language. The headlights also adopt a new design, similar to that introduced in the post-minor changeDS3, combining LED and Xenon lamps with LED daytime running lights forming a 'U' shape.

Inside, three types of materials are available for the signature watchstrap-design leather seats, with a new black and sapphire blue combination added. The layout, inspired by aircraft cockpits with controls consolidated on the center console and roof, remains unchanged.

A "Touch Drive" LCD panel is centrally located on the dashboard, allowing control of everything from audio to climate control via touch screen. This has reduced the number of buttons on the dashboard by twelve, resulting in a simpler interior. The Touch Drive also supports MirrorLink, enabling the display and operation of smartphone screens.

Furthermore, the new DS 5 introduces "MyDS," an app compatible with iOS and Android OS, enhancing smartphone integration. Through this app, DS 5 owners can access vehicle information, as well as receive benefits and special offers for DS customers.

Network functions have also been enhanced. Available features include the "SOS & Assistance Pack" for emergency calls, the "Monitoring Pack" displaying maintenance schedules and eco-driving status, the "Mapping Pack" to track vehicle location and details when lent to others, and the "Tracking Pack" to locate the vehicle in case of theft.

Diesel Hybrid Continues

Safety features have also been updated, including a blind-spot monitor that detects and warns of other vehicles in the blind spot, lane departure warning to prevent lane deviations, automatic high beam control, rotating cornering lights that work in conjunction with fixed lights, hill start assist to prevent rollback on inclines, stability control, traction control, a rearview monitor, and a head-up display.

Comfort features include electric massage seats, keyless access and start-up that also operates from the rear seats, heated door mirrors, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, ambient lighting, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a Denon audio system. Additionally, the shock absorbers have longer travel and incorporate technology to suppress sharp impacts and ensure smooth damping, contributing to an improved ride quality.

The powertrain for the new DS 5 includes the "THP165 S&S" turbocharged gasoline engine, producing 121 kW (165 hp) and 240 Nm of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. The "S&S" in the name signifies the inclusion of a start-stop idling function. Compliant with the Euro 6 environmental standard, it boasts a fuel economy of 5.9 L/100 km (approximately 16.9 km/L) and CO2 emissions of 135 g/km. A higher-output gasoline engine model with 210 hp and a 6-speed manual transmission is also planned for release around the end of 2015.

The diesel engines are all Euro 6 compliant "BlueHDi S&S" direct-injection turbo engines, combining SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) that removes up to 90% of NOx with a start-stop system. At launch, three variants will be available: a 120 hp version with a 6-speed manual, a 150 hp version with a 6-speed manual, and a 180 hp version with a 6-speed automatic. A 120 hp version with a 6-speed automatic transmission is scheduled for release later.

The diesel-electric hybrid "Hybrid 4x4," previously available, will also continue. This model offers a maximum output of 200 hp, CO2 emissions of 90 g/km, and a fuel economy of 3.5 L/100 km (approximately 28.6 km/L).

This hybrid system features four selectable drive modes for the driver: "ZEV" (Zero Emission Vehicle) using only the electric motor, "4WD" where the diesel engine powers the front wheels and the electric motor powers the rear, "Sport" which maximizes motor assist, and "Auto" which optimally switches between these modes.

The new DS 5, set to lead the renewed DS brand, will have its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March, with deliveries scheduled to begin in Europe in June.