Is Citroën's DS4 the 'difficult second album' or a potential masterpiece?
As the name implies, the DS4 is larger than the first modern DS, Citroën's DS3. It is built on C4 underpinnings so you get seating for five, five-doors and a well-sized hatchback boot. But there the comparison ends. DS4 sits higher on the road than the C4 but is not as tall as, say, a mid-size SUV or Crossover like the Qashqai or 3008.
DS4 has more creases in its body than a linen suit and, if you are to believe the designers, a coupé-like appearance with its disguised rear door handles. In the 'flesh' the car is pretty interesting and impressive - especially when you consider it will retail from circa €24,000 when it's launched here in June (for July deliveries).
Inside, the cabin is very nice up front with plenty of space for those under six foot. Taller drivers who like to stretch their legs out might find the seat travel a little poor. In the back, legroom is a little tight but despite the sloping roofline, headroom is fine and boot space is good, too. The rear door opens via a Leon/Giulietta-type handle and the resulting door frame shape is long and pointy so additional care is needed in tight spaces when opening. Citroën has paid a lot of attention to the quality of the interior and the results are evident.
Under the skin the power trains are shared with Peugeot and during our test drive we got to try the high-powered diesel and petrol versions. While the entry level 1.6 HDi 110bhp version will be the best-selling power output, the 2-litre 160bhp HDi proved itself to be a competent performer. It has plenty of pulling power and cruises effortlessly but sadly lacks enthusiasm, despite our test car being equipped with big alloys and plenty of toys.
Speaking of toys, there are three specification levels for Ireland: DSign, DStyle and DSport. DS4 in DSport looks the part and in my favourite turbo petrol-powered version, the THP (200bhp circa sub €30,000), it is far more fun behind the wheel. DS4 uses the same engine as in the Peugeot RCZ and benefits from an additional toy under the bonnet that creates a roary induction noise when you press hard on the accelerator. DS4 in this spec is the one I'd go for from the comprehensive engine range.
DS4, of course, comes with a host of gadgets and optional technologies and driver aids that you'd expect, but one unique toy caught my eye - a three-pin plug socket! (Actually, it was a two-pin socket because I was driving the car in Spain.) When specified, you will be able to plug in domestic appliances directly into the car. Campervan drivers have used inverters for years - and I even have one in the shed I bought years ago - but this is the first time I've seen a built-in domestic plug in a car.
DS is a relatively new sub brand that Citroën is very proud of, as it gives the French car maker the chance to be a little different to its sister company, Peugeot. DS4 is designed with additional panache to appeal to fashion conscious buyers who want something that is not quite the norm. This year about 30 will be sold due to its late launch, but in 2012 Citroën expects to sell between 100 and 150 DS4s in Ireland with a 95% diesel to 5% petrol mix.
DS4 goes on sale officially in Ireland on 4 July and is an elegant, well-priced twist on the SUV crossover. It is a shame that only the top of the range 200bhp THP version's performance matches the car's looks.
Michael Sheridan
