Having sold more than 115,000 examples worldwide since its launch in 2011, DS 4 is gaining new impetus with the arrival of two complementary versions. New DS 4 is a dynamic and elegant hatchback for customers seeking sleek styling and driving pleasure, whilst the New DS 4 Crossback – a new version in the range – is a car with ‘go-anywhere’ looks and a higher driving position. With this two-fold offering, DS Automobiles is addressing the expectations of customers in the premium compact vehicle segment, which has seen some important changes in recent years. Crossover vehicles now make up 30 per cent of the premium compact hatchback market.

Yves Bonnefont, CEO, DS Automobiles, said: “DS embodies the spirit of avant-garde. In the case of new DS 4, the brand’s spirit is expressed through an offering made up of two body styles: a new premium hatchback and an unprecedented new offer: DS 4 Crossback, with elegant go-anywhere style. With such complementary vehicles, the DS brand is clearly stating its ambition and its ability to meet customer expectations.”

With its flowing lines, touches of chrome and high-performance engines, new DS 4 has all the qualities of a premium hatchback. Personalisation and greater customer choice is provided by the two-tone roof/body colour option, which is new to this segment. With its luxurious, refined and even more customisable interior, DS 4 will represent a unique offering in the premium compact segment. The DS 4 Crossback is an eminently versatile car. Its go-anywhere stance is reflected in its higher ride height and its large black wheels, as well as its wheel arch trims and roof bars, amongst other additional features.

DS 4 and DS 4 Crossback perfectly embody the character of all DS vehicles. Their strong identity is underlined by a new front end – proudly sporting the ‘DS Wings’ grille design, new DS LED Vision headlamps, the latest technology with advanced connectivity including CarPlay^® and high-performance engines with CO₂ emissions of between 100g/km and 138g/km. Refined features include door panels upholstered in Nappa leather and semi-aniline leather upholstery with the signature ‘watch strap’ design that is exclusive to DS Automobiles.

With a world premiere at this month’s Frankfurt Motor Show, these two new versions of DS 4 will be on sale in the UK from November 2015. New DS 4 will be launched in the UK with six engines emitting between 100 and 138g/km of CO₂. One PureTech, two THP and three BlueHDi power units will be available. New DS 4 Crossback will launch with a choice of two engines: one petrol and one diesel (Blue HDi 120 S&S, with either a 6-speed manual or an EAT6 auto transmission). Engine output ranges from 120bhp to 210bhp, with torque of between 170lb ft and 295lb ft. Fuel consumption is also significantly reduced. Ranging 74.3 to 47.9mpg (combined), new DS 4 and DS 4 Crossback are competitive with the best in their segment.

New DS 4 and DS 4 Crossback are available with the latest-generation Euro 6 BlueHDi diesel engines. BlueHDi combines advanced performance with low fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions. These results were achieved by working directly on the engines to find improved internal efficiency, fewer mechanical losses and by specifying an innovative and efficient exhaust system.

BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual or EAT6 is the entry-level diesel engine for new DS 4. Paired with either a 6-speed manual gearbox or the new 6-speed automatic gearbox, it can return fuel consumption as low as 74.3mpg and CO₂ emissions of 100g/km with the 6-speed manual gearbox, or 72.4mpg and 102g/km of CO₂ with the EAT6, each with torque of 221lb ft. With these figures, new DS 4 hatchback and DS 4 Crossback set the standard for fuel efficiency with respect to the competition.

The BlueHDi 150 S&S with a 6-speed manual gearbox is a strong performer in the DS engine range. The figures speak for themselves with fuel consumption of 72.4mpg and CO₂ emissions of 103g/km, with a torque output of 273lb ft. Based on these three criteria, new DS 4 BlueHDi 150 S&S with the 6-speed manual gearbox emerges as the segment benchmark with between 14 to 52lb ft more torque than its main competitors. This engine will only be available in the New DS 4 hatchback.

The BlueHDi 180 S&S EAT6 delivers outstanding performance and fuel economy, with fuel consumption of 64.2mpg and CO₂ emissions of 115g/km for a torque output of 295lb ft. With up to 36lb ft more torque than its main competitors and a best-in-class torque rating, this engine delivers outstanding driveability.

To account for the variation in ride height, specific adjustments were made for the two body styles. This was to further strengthen the driving characteristics of each version in terms of comfort and handling. With a lower centre of gravity, New DS 4 is inherently agile and stable. Customers will enjoy the driving experience in complete comfort. With a ride height raised by 30mm, New DS 4 Crossback offers a higher driving position for better visibility and a more relaxed drive, and the ability to take on different types of terrain.