What's this all about?
DS Automobiles has its sights set on China's burgeoning market for premium compact cars. The DS 4S seen here is designed exclusively for Chinese customers. There are plenty of fancy design touches both inside and out. But if you want to buy one, don't get too excited, as there are no plans to offer the model in Europe.
It looks a bit like a Peugeot 308.
Under the skin the DS 4S uses the same architecture as the Peugeot 308, but there are plenty of unique design elements. There is a large front grille with a prominent 'DS' emblem and fully LED headlamps designed to mimic jewellery. With 136 individual LEDs the light units incorporate scrolling turn signals and moving directional headlamps. Similar care has gone into the design of the LED tail lamps, which incorporate a 3D design effect.
What's the inside like?
DS Automobiles talks about embodying the spirit of Parisian luxury with a handcrafted leather dashboard and door panels. Thanks to a long wheelbase and compact rear suspension the DS 4S is said to offer class-leading leg- and head room for rear seat passengers.
What's under the bonnet?
Chinese buyers get a choice of petrol engines; the entry-level is Peugeot's 1.2-litre, three-cylinder unit. Two 1.8-litre units in 134- and 201hp guises complete the range. All drivetrain options can be specified with automatic transmission.
John Lambert - 22 Nov 2015
