DS 4 review (2015-2018)
The DS4 was the second model to join Citroen’s premium DS brand. Underneath its swoopy, stylish exterior it’s basically a posh Citroen C4, with more luxury appointments and better build quality. Whatever you make of its slightly oddball, hybrid looks, the DS4 makes for a far from a conventional family car. Learn what it's like to drive in our road-tested DS4 review
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Pros
- Luxurious cabin
- Supple ride
- Practical
Cons
- Can be pricey to maintain
Interior
Our rating: 8/10
Driving position
The DS 4’s high driving seat, coupled with that panoramic windscreen, lends the car an enviable driving position.
The view out the back is obscured by a large rear screen pillar.
Standard rear-parking sensors make reversing manoeuvres and parking pretty stress-free.
Tech and features
All DS models are generously equipped, with entry-level Elegance versions featuring dual-zone climate control, height adjustable front seats and Citroen's seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system complete with built-in sat-nav, DAB radio, USB connectivity and smartphone integration.
Higher-spec Prestige cars add a reversing camera, leather upholstery and a blind-spot monitoring system, while Performance Line trim gets you aluminium pedals and front sports seats with massage function.
The DS4’s dashboard may have been lifted directly from the Citroen C4, but it’s been made considerably plusher thanks to the addition of classy trim finishes and dials that can be lit up in multiple colours.
\While interior plastics and materials aren’t quite up to the standards of the competition, the DS 4’s chic, cosseting cabin is still a thoroughly pleasant place to be.
Performance
Our rating: 7/10
Thanks to the DS 4’s extra-long windscreen, which extends back over the driver’s head and removes the traditional header rail from obscuring forward visibility, you get a panoramic view of the road ahead. It’s a nice touch that truly opens up your vistas.
Handling and ride comfort
Handling-wise, the DS 4 is surprisingly sporty, considering its raised suspension and taller body.
There’s some lean in the corners, but the car’s electro-hydraulic steering system is pleasingly weighty, giving the DS 4 impressive levels of body control when out on twisty country roads.
Ultimately, the DS 4 is more of a cruiser than a sports car, being more at home on smoother roads and motorways.
Engines and power
The DS 4’s range of diesel and petrol engines offer respectable levels of performance and refinement, so keeping up with motorway traffic or fast overtaking on B-roads won’t be an issue.
Practicality
Our rating: 7/10
The DS 4 offers plenty of space up front - and thanks to that panoramic windscreen window again, the cabin feels bright and airy.
Rear seats
Rear seat accommodation is decent, although headroom is restricted due to the DS 4’s sloping roofline.
Boot space
The boot will comfortably take three suitcases or the weekly shop.
Total capacity is not quite on par with its rivals. All models come with split-folding rear seats so carrying larger loads won’t be a problem.
Storage solutions
Interior storage space is good, with an array of cubbies and compartments peppered around the cabin.
Additionally, the DS 4 boasts a couple of cupholders and door pockets big enough to hold large bottles of water.
Running costs
Our rating: 7/10
Fuel economy
The DS4 boasts impressive fuel efficiency against its rivals, with the diesel engines proving the most frugal.
The 1.6-litre engine aims to return 74.3mpg, while the higher-powered 2.0-litre should deliver 72.4mpg.
Reliability
While older Citroen products had a reputation for electrical problems, recent models have benefited from improved build quality.
The company now has a better track record when it comes to overall reliability, so the DS 4 should offer a dependable experience.
The verdict
Interior
8/10
Performance
7/10
Practicality
7/10
Running costs
7/10
The DS4’s high-quality interior, premium looks and generous levels of standard equipment succeed in putting it in a class above its cheaper Citroen cousins.
It may not be an obvious choice in the premium hatchback sector, but its idiosyncratic styling makes it a worthy, slightly leftfield contender in a crowded market.
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