DS will launch a large SUV by the end of 2024, with the new model sitting above the DS 7 and closely reflecting 2020’s Aero Sport Lounge concept.
The model will complete a five-car line-up for the brand, which starts with the DS 3 (recently renamed from the DS 3 Crossback) and includes the DS 4, DS 7 and DS 9 saloon.
While the DS 7 rivals the Audi Q3, the new model is likely to take on the Audi Q5, which occupies a vital segment for the UK and European luxury market.
The new SUV, which has already undergone extensive testing, will be significantly smaller than the Aero Sport Lounge concept, which measured five metres in length. But the production car’s design closely reflects that of the concept, DS boss Béatrice Foucher has confirmed.
“The silhouette is inspired by the concept, and it’s between a hatch and an SUV to provide the best energy management,” she said, adding that the interior – yet to be revealed – could be described as “eye-catching”.
The new DS will offer around 430 miles of range and is likely to use a larger, more advanced version of the new battery recently applied to the electric DS 3, which now has a claimed range of 250 miles.
Launching alongside the new SUV will be an electric version of the DS 4, following on from the firm’s previous commitment to release only electric models from 2024.
Given DS’s relative youth, Foucher said the firm had an opportunity to take customers on a journey of electrification, which was more challenging for established combustionengined brands.
“This is the big benefit of not being so well known,” she said.
“We can catch people with the story of electrification. This is what Tesla did. We have the room to create the story. This is the reason why we are the first Stellantis brand to launch the new battery and powertrain on the DS 3, so that we are leaders in the company.”
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Wow, this is exciting news! DS is launching a new flagship SUV by the end of 2024, and it's going to be a serious contender against the Audi Q5. The design is inspired by the Aero Sport Lounge concept, which is a blend of a hatch and an SUV, promising optimal energy management. I'm particularly intrigued by the promise of an "eye-catching" interior, which is yet to be revealed. By the way, I've found top-notch writing support tailored to my needs. Their array of tools and examples make writing a breeze!
If the concept car is anything to go by, it's clear that Citroen designers are taking the same drugs as BMW designers. Another thing that Foucher has forgotten is that the French don't do Premium. The only people doing that successfully are the Germans. A French luxury car, that's a joke innit?
It doesn't mean they sell as good as their German counterparts, particularly in French-hating countries like the UK.
They never learn. Buyers are obsessed with brand image and DS doesn't have it. It's just Genesis or Infinity. Maybe they should try selling it in the USA!
Infiniti - certainly a big brand over the ocean(s) but in Europe their tried and failed.
I can't even remember the last one I've seen on the street.