DS 4 – a compact crossover from the Premium category

DS 4 is a compact model that will cause confusion among Audi, BMW and Mercedes. Breaking the power of the A3, 1 and A-Class is not an easy task, but the French made every effort to ensure that their new product could compete with the competition. “Czwórka” from DS Automobiles is, above all, comfortable and avant-garde style. There is also no shortage of modern technology. Our test consists of a DS 4 E-TENSE with a hybrid drive system and a total power of 225 HP.

DS 4 is not an ordinary compact, but something like a crossover. It is distinguished by a slightly raised body, which does not give off-road character, but makes it easier to use, for example, in the city.

Technically, it is related to other models from the Stellantis group, including the Peugeot 308, which impressed us with its driving characteristics.

The DS 4, however, delivers smoother and more comfortable. Of course, the creators of this model had a different idea for its use.

If it weren’t for the cramped cabin, you’d get the feeling that you’re traveling in a luxury sedan rather than a minivan. The driver and front passenger sit in luxury – they are surrounded by high-quality components and good looks, and the soft seats not only have functions of heating and ventilation, but even massage!

Although the cockpit has three touch screens, the traditional buttons have not been completely abandoned. Most striking is the large starter in the middle, with a red backlight pulsating like a heartbeat. In addition to the usual screens in the place of the clock and in the center of the dashboard, DS engineers placed another one in the main console, next to the automatic transmission selector. To be honest, its usefulness is very questionable, and personally, during the 2-day trial, I didn’t use it even once…

However, technological solutions in the form of a thermal imaging camera with the task of identifying and indicating the presence of people around the car is something that is definitely worth considering!

Plug-in hybrid, up to 55 km of pollution-free range

The presented unit is a Plug-In version with a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with a power of 180 horsepower. Its performance is very good, especially thanks to the 4-cylinder system. It is good that DS did not go in the direction of 3-cylinder units in this case . In addition, I noticed a good sound of this engine when revving at high speed.

In all-electric mode, the manufacturer advertises a range of 55 km. The test showed values ​​of 44-48 km, but I think that in this case DS is not very deceiving and you can get close to the declared values.

The driver has three modes of operation – SPORT, Hybrid and electric only. There is also an electronic save function that allows you to turn off the use of the zero drive and save for later.

Style!

What is most interesting about DS? Of course, visually. It is a well designed and efficient car. Lighting elements in particular add charisma and make you stand out on the street.

Personally, I was drawn to the interior. All visualize and finish. The large cockpit inspires confidence and gives the feeling of traveling in a larger and heavier vehicle. This is also facilitated by the narrow windows – not everyone should like it, but I find it good.

Weakness?

Well, it can’t be perfect… DS 4 doesn’t waste space. If someone is looking for a small car as an alternative to a family car, this is not the way to go. DS is a car for an individual, preferably a couple, or a mother with one child. You should take into account that, for example, because of the large seats, there is less room to … adjust. Therefore, it is better to keep the armchair and the door open.

The French did not try to turn it into another Golf – so the company has other models. DS should be like jewelry, it should be decoration. And just for the comfort of use, it was enclosed in a small body.

And this is where the second weakness comes from. Price. The cheapest version of the DS 4 can be bought for less than PLN 160,000, but the presented hybrid version costs a quarter of a million zlotys. And that’s a lot for a compact car.