Citroën is using this week’s Shanghai show to launch the latest model in its ‘premium’ DS line-up: the family saloon-sized DS5.
The five-door hatchback is 4.52m long and 1.85m wide - so considerably shorter and slightly narrower than a Ford Mondeo. But Citroën still claims it can accommodate five adults.
Where the DS4 stayed surprisingly close to the C4, the DS5 looks considerably more daring than the C5, with a raised driving position and a coupé-esque roofline.
See the official pics of the new Citroën DS5 - now with Shanghai show pics
It features now-established DS cues at the front, including extensive use of chrome and LED lighting strips, but adds new flourishes such as the panel surfacing which ‘flows’ around the side indicator lenses.
The rear gets a pair of exhaust pipes integrated into the bumper, plus tail-lights that wrap around and extend along the side panels.
The DS5 is the first Citroën to offer the firm’s Hybrid4 diesel hybrid tech, which offers 200bhp through the combination of a 163bhp 2.0-litre turbodiesel motor and a 37bhp electric motor on the back axle.
Citroën says the system can operate on electric power alone during low-speed city driving - and that it gives the DS5 CO2 emissions of 99g/km.
The cabin features extensive use of leather trim, plus a number of new design cues. In particular, there’s a driver-focused ‘cockpit’ feel to the front area, with skeletal switchgear in the centre console, a head-up display and more switchgear mounted in an aircraft-style roof console.
The interior also gets red and white ambient lighting. The DS5 show car is appearing in China in production form, albeit with a bespoke paint job and specially designed 20in alloy wheels.
The final production models will be offered with alloys in sizes ranging from 16in to 19in. The DS5 is still a year away from UK sales; it should arrive in spring 2012. Expect it to carry a premium over top-end C5s, with prices starting from between £25k and £30k.
John McIlroy
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