The DS 4 was always a bit of an oddball, a car that looked like it rolled straight out of a Parisian fashion boutique rather than a dusty factory. But now, dear readers, it’s back, and it’s called the DS N°4. This isn’t a facelift; it’s a full-on transformation, as if the car spent a week at a luxury spa and now struts the runway, brimming with confidence. And the best part? It’s now available as a fully electric E-Tense. Let’s dive in, with a glass of champagne in hand, because this is French, and it demands a touch of decadence.
A face that steals the show
Let’s start with the looks, because that’s where the N°4 grabs you by the collar. The front end has been completely redesigned, with a wider black grille that looks like the smirk of a self-assured French waiter. At the center, an illuminated DS logo shines, flanked by sleek LED light bars that pulse like a heartbeat. It’s as if the car is staring at you, saying, “Oui, I’m gorgeous, and I know it.” The hood is longer, the matrix headlights are sharper than a freshly honed chef’s knife, and the rear lights, now 3D-engraved, are connected by a glossy black strip proudly displaying “DS Automobiles.” This isn’t a car; it’s a work of art on wheels.
Inside: A palace on four wheels
Step inside, and you’re greeted by an interior so refined you’ll wonder if you’ve accidentally boarded a private jet. No cheap plastics here—just nappa leather, alcantara, and even a hint of wood. It feels like a team of French artisans pored over every stitch with a magnifying glass. The digital dashboard is a crystal-clear 10.25 inches, and the central touchscreen, at 10 inches, is compact but packed with tech, including ChatGPT for the trendiest infotainment experience. The audio system, with 14 speakers and 690 watts, sounds like a private Daft Punk concert in your car. And the climate control? The vents are so subtly hidden you’d think the car is magically cooled by elves.
Power and choice: Electric, hybrid, or both
Under the hood—or rather, under the floor, since we’re talking electric—the N°4 offers three powertrains, each with its own charm. The star of the show is the fully electric E-Tense, with a 213-hp motor and 343 Nm of torque, powered by a 58.3-kWh battery. That gives you a WLTP range of 450 kilometers, enough to zip from Brussels to Paris without fretting about a charging station. Fast charging hits 120 kW, so you’re back on the road in half an hour, ready to conquer the boulevards.
For those not quite ready to go full electric, there’s the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) with 225 hp and a 14.6-kWh battery, good for 81 kilometers of pure electric driving. Perfect for flaunting green credentials without ditching gasoline. And then there’s the self-charging hybrid with 145 hp, for traditionalists who still want to save a bit at the pump. Whatever you choose, the N°4 drives smoothly, with adaptive suspension that soaks up bumps like they’re croissant crumbs.
Space and practicality: No trunk drama
Boot space varies by powertrain, but even the electric E-Tense offers a respectable 360 liters, while the hybrid stretches to 430 liters. That’s enough for a weekend in the Ardennes or a shopping spree in Antwerp. The N°4 is smart, too: a heat pump keeps the battery at optimal temperature, and a clever route planner ensures you always find the nearest charging station. Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) is coming soon, so you’ll be able to power your camping coffee maker with your car. How French is that?
Why this isn’t just any car
The N°4 isn’t for those who just want to get from A to B. It’s a statement, a four-wheeled ode to French quirkiness. It takes on the German premium brands—you know, the cars that look like they were designed by a robot accountant—and does so with flair. The driver assistance systems are Level 2, meaning it practically drives itself, and top trims will get a semi-autonomous system that even changes lanes. But honestly? You’ll want to drive this car yourself, if only to feel those seats hug you like an old friend.
The price of beauty
Pricing? It’s not official yet, but expect the N°4 to be a tad pricier than its predecessor. The hybrid should start around €44,000, the PHEV a bit more, and the electric E-Tense likely around €47,000. It’s not cheap, but beauty comes at a cost, and this car is worth every penny. It hits showrooms in October 2025, so start saving now.
Conclusion: A car with character
The DS N°4 isn’t just a car; it’s an experience. It blends French elegance with modern tech and a dash of rebellion. Whether you go for the whisper-quiet E-Tense, the versatile PHEV, or the classic hybrid, you’re getting a car that stands out. In a world full of gray SUVs and predictable sedans, the N°4 is a breath of fresh air, a car that declares, “I’m here, and I’m fabulous.”
For those looking to find a car just as unique, check out our marketplace. Whether you’re dreaming of a DS N°4 or something else, Volty offers a wide range of cars to browse and buy. Head to https://volty.be/nl/buy/cars/overview/ and discover your dream ride!
