New DS N.4: test, price, exterior, interior, strengths, weaknesses, technical data sheet

As already seen with the DS N.8, the DS4 also becomes DS N.4. A change of name, but not of identity for the French media which continues to present itself as a premium alternative to the Germans. As usual, the Audi A3, the BMW 1 Series and the Mercedes A-Class are in our sights. We tested the new DS N.4 on the Portuguese ups and downs around Porto in the three engines that will be marketed from the launch in dealerships, expected by the end of 2025. From the hybrid to the plug-in hybrid, moving from the debut version with this electric N.4. The presence of the diesel engine has also been confirmed and will be introduced at a stage following the launch, probably during 2026.

1 The outside

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Dimensions and proportions refer to the previous DS4. While it is above all the front area that changes most evidently. The grille grows in size and as often happens lately the front is crossed by a long light strip that starts from the lower area of ​​both headlights. Front lights that use, on the most equipped versions, the DS Vision LED matrix. In the middle of the grille, again illuminated by LEDs, is the DS logo. Compared to the previous model the bonnet, lowered, leans forward slightly, towards the grille. While at the rear the most evident aesthetic novelty is the new “DS Automobile N.4” lettering which i French designers they have arranged in two lines, visually occupying a large part of the tailgate that gives access to the trunk. The rear light clusters instead gain a new 3D effect design. The alloy wheels are standard in the 19-inch size or, optionally, 20-inch starting from the Phev engine. Beautiful, remaining on the side, are the flush door handles and the black roof in contrast with the five colors available for the bodywork. In general, the new DS N.4 appears more muscular than the previous DS4, but at the same time shows clearer and cleaner lines.

2 The interior

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The interior of the new DS N.4 reflects the premium intentions imposed by the French management. The perception as soon as you get on board is of a cockpit with a refined design. But above all, attention to all the details. For the choice of materials and the way in which they are combined and assembled. Even the chromatic choice is the result of a careful analysis of the interior design from beyond the Alps. In general we appreciate the overlap of tradition with modernity, evident if we look for example at the fabrics adjacent to the aluminum areas. Precisely from a technological point of view, the work is appreciated for having made the lives of the occupants easier. Many of the controls that on the old generation DS4 could only be managed from a small screen positioned in the lower area of ​​the dashboard have in fact been brought to the larger and more readable screen touch 10 inch. Same size as the instrument panel which on this No.4 shows renewed graphics in addition to the large one head up display adjustable. Interesting for music lovers is the choice of the Focal Electra system with almost 700 Watts distributed across 14 speakers. The boot capacity is also appreciable and obviously varies based on the type of engine chosen. They range from 360 liters of the electric DS N.4 to 430 liters of the hybrid. Moving on from the 390 liters of the plug-in hybrid variant.

3 The electric

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The range of the new DS N.4 is completely electrified, with a hybrid proposal, a plug-in hybrid and one, an absolute novelty for this model, 100% electric. The latter, DS N.4 E-Tense, offers a power of 213 HP and 343 Nm of maximum torque. The battery is 58.3 kWh and promises an average autonomy in the WLTP cycle of around 450 km. Charging starts with an 11 kW alternating current charger, while continuous charging can reach up to 120 kW. Speed ​​that allows you to go from 20% to 80% charge in about 30 minutes. For this version the aerodynamics have been further optimized, with a ground clearance reduced by 10 mm and aerodynamic elements that favor air penetration. Three levels of energy recovery can be selected via the paddles positioned behind the steering (D, B, B+), while a new heat pump and more efficient thermal management improve performance even in the presence of colder external temperatures.

4 The plug-in hybrid

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The plug-in hybrid engine is positioned in the middle of the offer. Version that combines a traditional 180 HP 4-cylinder petrol engine together with a 125 HP electric unit, powered by a 14.6 kWh battery. The combination of the two engines produces a power of 225 HP and 360 Nm of maximum torque. The performance of the electrical part of the new DS N.4 has been significantly improved, with autonomy rising to 81 km, approximately 30% more than the previous generation. In this case the charging speed is 3.7 kW as standard or, as an option, it can be increased to 7.4 kW.

5 The hybrid

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Finally, the mild-hybrid variant uses a traditional 1.2-litre petrol engine combined with a compact 21 kW electric unit mounted directly on the 6-speed gearbox. In all the combined power is 145 HP for a maximum torque of 230 Nm. A particularly environmentally friendly solution, with a level of CO2 produced per km of just 116 grams.

6 How is it going

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At the wheel of the electric DS N°4 E-Tense the feeling is of immediate control. The slightly lowered position and some aerodynamic corrections make it a decidedly stable car. The roll is almost imperceptible with the car remaining flat and planted even when cornering. In general, one can perceive the effectiveness of the weight distribution which has largely taken into account the large battery positioned under the floor. There couple instantaneous of 343 Nm makes every restart lightning fast, ideal for getting rid of the slow traffic of Rua de Santa Catarina or for completing an overtaking without hesitation. Even considering the maximum speed of 160 km/h. The three levels of energy recovery, selectable by intensity via the paddles behind the steering, transform braking into an experience very close to the “one pedal” one. The level of soundproofing is also high, especially noticeable on the motorway at higher speeds. The calibration of the Emp2 chassis is also discreet, combining comfort and sportiness. The data on the data is reliable consumptionaround 15 kWh per 100 km of travel. Moving on to the plug-in hybrid variant, we particularly appreciate the electric traction that can be used in the city for daily commutes. Outside the door the combustion engine starts without jolts. In general, the combined torque and work of the eDCT7 automatic transmission guarantee quick starts and fairly smooth changes of pace. The weight added by the battery barely blunts the almost sporty readiness of its 100% electric sister. Different sensations also come from the set-up, softer than the rigid electric one. On the plug-in, perhaps you can have more fun in the guided part, where the load shift is more evident both during acceleration and cornering. Finally, the hybrid version proves to be soft and comfortable, with docile steering that is effective in absorbing the roughness of urban pavements. An interesting gateway to the world of DS N.4.

7 The prices

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The price list from the attack setup, called Pallas, travels between 38,500 euros of the DS N.4 hybrid ei 47,050 euros from Phev. The electric E-Tense is positioned in the middle at 43,550 euros. The most accessorized version is the Etoile Nappa leather, from 46,100 euros with the hybrid engine or 54,650 euros for the plug-in. While the top of the range 100% electric version starts from 48,350 euros of the Etoile Alcantara installation.

8 Pros and cons

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Below you can find the advantages and disadvantages of the new DS N.4 found during the road test carried out on the roads around Porto, Portugal.

• The interiors are made with care and attention to detail
• All engines are electrified and offer a varied offering

• Infotainment with many functions, but you need to get used to it