However, while Citroen describes it as having a ‘coupé-like’ body, it remains a five-door five-seat hatchback… exactly what the forthcoming C4 will be too. And that could be a problem.
There’s no doubt that the first of the DS line, the DS3, has received critical acclaim and demand is strong. But then it looks sufficiently different to the C3 upon which it’s based, and has two fewer doors.
The DS4, however, could be relying on the allure of the DS sub-brand too much, a concept that remains to be fully proven. Interestingly, Citroen seems to be placing particular emphasis on the car’s interior and refinement, describing it as luxurious and prestigious. It is shying away from describing the DS4 as a premium product though; rather, it has ‘premium design codes’. Whatever that means.
The choice of engines brings no surprises, with two diesels (HDi 110 or HDi 160) and three petrols (VTi 120, THP 155 or THP 200) on offer. The THP 200 uses the 197 bhp (147 kW / 200 PS) 1.6-litre engine already seen in the Peugeot 308 GT / GTi.
Available only with the HDi 110 diesel is Citroen’s e-HDi technology. This package comprises a Stop & Start system, an alternator that recovers energy during braking and an Electronic Gearbox System (EGS) with optimised gear changes. It’s claimed that this reduces emissions and fuel consumption by 15% in built-up areas, although why things like Stop & Start aren’t fitted across the range is a mystery.
The Citroen DS4 will make its debut at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, with sales expected to begin in 2011. It’ll be interesting to see how pricing compares to the new C4, and whether that car ends up being the DS4’s main competition.
