Review
DS5 Hybrid 4×4
On October 6, 1955, the world was introduced to the DS 19 for the first time. His style was so popular that about 12,000 units were sold that day. About 60 years later, Citroën will now position DS as a separate brand. The new DS 5 is the first model under this new brand. We had the pleasure of meeting the new DS 5 Hybrid 4×4 and found its beautiful design particularly inspiring.
Design
Extensive attention was paid to the design of every detail, both on the outside and on the inside. For example, a complete cockpit has been built around the driver with a central console with switches that could come straight from a futuristic aircraft. The roof has also been very well designed with an eye for detail. With switches that are again reminiscent of an airplane and a skylight consisting of three light shafts. The seats are not just any seats, but you can find the design pattern of a watch strap in them.
We no longer see the Citroën logo at the front of the new DS 5. DS is now a standalone brand. The new DS 5 therefore proudly displays the DS emblem in the center of the radio grille.
engines
The new DS 5 is currently available in 6 variants. In the petrol range, the DS 5 is available with a 1.6 engine with 165 hp and a 6-speed automatic transmission from 30,790 euros. If you want a diesel, you can opt for a 1.6 with 115 hp from 29,900 euros. You also have a 2.0 liter with 136 hp or 150 hp from 31,370 euros and 31,560 euros respectively. These 3 variants are only available with a manual six-speed gearbox. If you want an automatic, you can choose a 2.0 liter with 180 hp from 34,920 euros. We drove the top model, the DS 5 Hybrid 4×4. This is a hybrid diesel with 200 hp and an automatic gearbox from 39,350 euros.
DS5 Hybrid 4×4
The advantage of the DS 5 as a hybrid lies mainly in lower consumption in an urban environment where you often have to stop and leave. According to DS, the average mixed consumption is about 3.5 liters. In the city this even drops to 3.0 liters. The C0² emissions are 90 grams.
As a driver you can choose between 4 driving modes. There is the standard “Auto mode”. In this mode, the hybrid drive is automatically controlled based on, among other things, optimal consumption. If you drive gently forward or backward, or accelerate gently, this will be done completely electrically, as long as the battery allows this and you do not press the accelerator too hard. In theory, you can drive fully electric at speeds of 60 to 70 km/h. However, with our personal driving style, the combustion engine often started much earlier. In “Sport mode” the accelerator pedal and gearbox are much sportier and more responsive. The maximum power of 200 hp is also available in this mode, by allowing the combustion engine and electric motor to work together to maximum effect. The top speed is about 211 km/h and the sprint from 0-100 km/h takes about 8.6 seconds. In the “Zero Emission Vehicle” mode or ZEV mode you can choose, for example in the city, to drive purely electrically. This is also provided that there is sufficient capacity in the batteries and that you do not press too hard on the accelerator pedal. If you need extra grip on a snowy surface, for example, you can choose the 4-wheel drive mode. This mode permanently combines the front-wheel drive of the combustion engine with the rear-wheel drive of the electric motor. In terms of transmission, the hybrid is equipped with a 6-speed automatic gearbox (ETG). It does its job well. With a seventh or eighth gear it might feel even smoother.
Equipment
In the new DS 5 we find a 7” color touchscreen. This allows you to operate the navigation and many functions of the car, among other things. Our test car was also equipped with a reversing camera, which makes it a lot easier for the driver to park the DS smoothly. We also found a useful head-up display back and were also occasionally warned by the AFIL system. This system warns the driver when crossing a road marking by a slight vibration in the seat.
Conclusion
It always has to be German that counts. In the new DS 5 we saw a very authentic car with a unique and beautiful design that permeates every detail of the car. From the handsome exterior to the surprising interior, if you are looking for a car with an original look & feel, the new DS 5 is definitely worth considering.
Johan De Haes
Test driver
