DS Automobiles just dropped a fresh contender in the electric sedan market and it’s aiming squarely at the Tesla Model 3. Dubbed the DS 4, this stylish newcomer fuses French flair with modern EV tech. While DS has been playing catch-up compared to other Stellantis brands, the DS 4 looks like a strong statement of intent. It borrows design cues from its award-winning predecessor and adds new twists inside and out.
From its sculpted hood lines to a luxe cabin inspired by high watchmaking, the DS 4 is unapologetically premium. Underneath, it rides on Stellantis’s tried-and-tested EMP2 platform, packing a respectable electric powertrain and a host of comfort goodies. In this overview, we’ll dive into the DS 4’s standout design elements, cabin experience, driving range, and overall value proposition.
Bold Exterior Design
At first glance, the DS 4 makes a statement. The front fascia showcases an angular, almost daring grille drenched in intricate mesh and accentuated by dozens of tiny light dots. A backlit signature swoops down into the full-width panel, creating a continuous ribbon of light that screams modernity. The hood is stretched out by 12 millimeters and chiseled into muscular creases that hint at performance without shouting.
Moving to the side profile, the DS 4 sits on standard 19-inch wheels, with an optional 20-inch setup for the plug-in hybrid model. Its sleek roofline has a slight slope that avoids the coupe look to maintain rear headroom. With dimensions of 4.40 meters long, 1.87 meters wide, and 1.47 meters tall, the DS 4 nails the compact luxury sedan formula while still offering generous legroom inside.
The rear end channels the previous generation’s DNA with modern updates. A glossy black roof flows into a subtle spoiler, tying into a set of full LED taillights. Inside each light cluster, you’ll spot pyramid-shaped motifs that play on DS’s signature “Clous de Paris” theme. Below the DS badging, the DS 4 nameplate sits in a fresh new typography that looks upscale and refined.
Premium Cabin Experience
Slide inside, and you’ll feel like you’ve entered a high-end lounge. The DS 4’s dashboard echoes its predecessor but elevates it with two new trims: Pallas and Étoile. These top-of-the-line finishes come with heated massaging seats, a heated steering wheel, and an augmented reality head-up display. Choose between fabric, leather, or Alcantara upholstery to suit your vibe.
One of the standout touches is the guilloché metal trim around the center console, directly inspired by luxury watchmaking. The ambient lighting can be customized to match your mood, bathing the cabin in over 30 color combos. In front of the driver, a 10-inch touchscreen takes center stage on the dash, likely supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. DS even partners with ChatGPT to power an AI assistant that handles voice commands and info requests.
Below the main screen, the dedicated IRIS infotainment controls are gone, replaced by extra storage space. Instead, DS has introduced a new 10.25-inch instrument cluster that’s crisp and fully digital. Rear passengers enjoy plenty of legroom thanks to a 2.67-meter wheelbase and a comfortable seat design that feels like watch band links. A 14-speaker Focal Electra audio system ensures everyone on board gets concert-level sound.
Powertrain and Driving Range
The DS 4 sits on the EMP2 platform that underpins several Stellantis products. Currently, it offers a single electric option with 213 horsepower and 343 Nm of torque. While 0-60 mph and top speed figures are MIA for now, the real story is its battery pack. A 58.3 kWh NMC battery delivers up to 450 kilometers (about 280 miles) of range on the WLTP cycle.
That’s respectable, but it falls behind the Tesla Model 3’s 554 km WLTP mark—or even 720 km if you opt for Tesla’s long-range pack. In real-world driving, DS claims an over-400-km range is feasible with its standard heat pump and three levels of regenerative braking. Aerodynamics get a boost too, thanks to a lowered ride height. It’s not the segment leader, but it’s plenty capable for daily commutes and weekend road trips.
Charge-wise, the DS 4 comes with an 11 kW onboard charger and supports up to 120 kW DC fast charging. Expect to go from 20 to 80 percent in about 30 minutes, and snag roughly 100 km of range in just 11 minutes. While it doesn’t feature an 800-volt architecture, it does offer a battery pre-conditioning function and a trip planner to optimize charging stops. There’s even V2L bi-directional charging, so you can power external devices straight from the car.
Pricing, Availability, and Final Thoughts
DS hasn’t spilled the exact pricing or delivery dates yet, but the DS 4 will slot above mainstream hatchbacks and below full luxury EVs in cost. Expect it to battle the likes of Volkswagen’s ID.7 and BYD Han, as well as undercut the Tesla Model 3 on sticker price while offering a more premium vibe.
If you’re craving French design, attention to detail, and a genuinely upscale cabin, the DS 4 is worth a closer look. It may not be the range king, but its blend of style, comfort, and advanced features make it a compelling choice in the luxury electric sedan segment. Stay tuned for pricing updates and first-drive impressions coming soon!
