Faithful to the tradition of breaking the beaten path since 1955, the manufacturer presents a model that redefines contemporary luxury through bold aesthetics and a range of fully electrified engines. The model was known as DS 4 and now adopts the new name DS Nº4, a premium C-segment compact but with an SUV feel with which the French brand reinforces its vocation for innovation, exclusive design and its commitment to electrification.
Available in 100% electric, plug-in hybrid and self-charging hybrid versions, the DS Nº4 integrates advanced technologies to maximize efficiency, comfort and driving pleasure.
Its E-TENSE variant is distinguished by a 213 hp engine and a range of up to 450 km WLTP thanks to a net battery of 58.3 kWh and optimized consumption between 15.2 and 15.5 kWh/100 km. It also offers three levels of regenerative braking, fast charging up to 120 kW and the V2L function to power external devices, complemented by digital services such as intelligent routing for electric vehicles, preconditioning or remote control from the MyDS app.
For those looking for versatility, the plug-in hybrid version combines a 180 hp gasoline engine with a 125 hp electric motor, achieving 225 hp, 360 Nm and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds. Its new 14.6 kWh battery allows you to travel up to 81 km in 100% electric mode. For its part, the DS Nº4 Hybrid integrates a 145 hp self-charging system capable of driving up to 50% of the time in town in electric mode and offering emissions from 116 g/km.
We tested the 145 hp mild hybrid gasoline engine, sufficient for daily use, although slower than competitors like the Audi A3 or the BMW 1 Series. For more performance, the 225 plug-in hybrid version offers 221 hp and 80 km of electric range, a delay compared to that of the A3 TFSI which exceeds 140 km.
Elegant interior
The interior is one of its strong points: an elegant design, quality materials and a clearly premium atmosphere. The driving position is comfortable and elevated, with good forward visibility. The rear, on the other hand, is limited by the thick pillars. The technological equipment includes a 10.25-inch digital panel and a 10-inch touch screen, although the latter suffers from slowness and small icons. The front space is large, but the rear space is ideal for tall adults. The boot, up to 430 litres, exceeds that of its rivals, although it drops to 360 liters in the plug-in variant.
In terms of design, the model is inspired by the DS E-TENSE Performance concept and is distinguished by its balanced proportions (4.40 m in length and 1.87 m in width) which reinforce its premium presence. The lighting signature takes center stage with a front beam that converges towards the illuminated central logo and a rear characterized by LED lights and laser-engraved Dark Chrome moldings. The 19 or 20-inch rims enhance its muscular and fluid silhouette.
The interior represents an exercise in French know-how, with noble materials such as Nappa leather with watch strap-type construction, Alcantara and ash wood. Details such as the “Clous de Paris” pattern or the beaded seams underline its exclusivity. The interior emphasizes intuitive ergonomics, connectivity and a refined atmosphere, enhanced by digital services, OTA updates and an integrated experience thanks to the DS Iris system, which integrates ChatGPT as standard and allows interacting with the vehicle using natural controls.
A car with an “artisanal” spirit
The range is structured in the Pallas, Étoile finishes and the exclusive Jules Verne collection. The Pallas level already offers notable technological equipment, while Étoile adds the DS Matrix Led Vision system, advanced assistance and greater comfort. The Étoile version features Nappa leather to enhance the experience with handcrafted upholstery and features such as an expanded head-up display or heated seats. The Jules Verne finish gives a distinctive personality with a Blue and Pearl Alcantara design, special badges and black diamond-cut rims.
In terms of price, the DS No. 4 is slightly above the Audi A3 and level with the Mercedes A-Class and BMW 1 Series, but it remains, as you would expect, less good value. For private buyers, the automatic hybrid is the most balanced option; For businesses, the PHEV 225 may be interesting. The most recommended version is the Pallas finish, well equipped and more affordable. L’Étoile, while luxurious, is too expensive to justify the difference.
Prices start at 38,600 euros for the Pallas Hybrid, 41,100 euros for the Jules Verne Hybrid, 42,100 euros for the Étoile Alcantara Hybrid and 45,100 euros for the Étoile Leather Nappa Hybrid. In addition, all models benefit from the premium DS SERENITY warranty, valid for up to 8 years or 160,000 km.
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