Citro"en reveals DS 5LS luxury sedan for the Chinese market

Sun, 22 Dec 2013

Typically seen as more of a budget brand, Citroën set out to move upmarket with the re-launch of its DS line and the debut of the DS3 in 2010. But in the years since, it has only produced hatchbacks, and as anyone could tell you, a luxury marque wouldn't be a luxury marque without a luxury sedan. And that's what the French automaker has set out to create with this latest model to join the family.

Designed specifically for the Chinese market – where buyers still demand sedans like we do here – the DS 5LS is based on (and will be built alongside) the existing DS5 hatch. Its design is derived closely from the Numero 9 and Wild Rubis concepts, but with a trunk and applied to a footprint only slightly larger than the latest Mercedes-Benz C-Class. Positioned in the smaller C segment, however, the DS 5LS claims the longest wheelbase in its class. That gives it a rather commodious interior, swathed in leather, wood and metal, with features like massaging front seats and reclining rear seats.

Power comes in the form of a twin-scroll turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder engine displacing either 1.6 or 2.0 liters, mated to a six-speed automatic. Buyers will be able to choose between nine exterior colors when they order theirs through one of 50 dedicated DS dealerships across China. With its launch at the Carrousel du Louvre in Paris, Citroën also announced that it will be launching an SUV in the Chinese market as well sometime next year.

CITROËN UNVEILS THE LATEST ADDITION TO DS LINE: DS 5LS

- Citroën unveils DS 5LS for Chinese market
- Set to be a key player in the expansion of the DS brand, DS 5LS is a luxury saloon model
- Comfort and styling are key, as DS 5LS boasts new DS 1955-inspired front end

Citroën has today unveiled the latest addition to its DS line – DS 5LS. Presented to the international press at the Carrousel du Louvre, one of Paris's most iconic landmarks, DS 5LS is a luxury saloon which will go on sale in China in March 2014.

The second DS model to be produced at the Chinese Shenzhen plant, DS 5LS marks a further step in the development of the DS brand in this key market, as well as being a major factor in DS line's on-going international expansion.

Elegant and sophisticated in terms of styling and lines (L: 4.70m x W: 1.84m x H: 1.50m), DS 5LS features all the hallmarks of the DS range, with some new additions.

The luxury saloon introduces DS's new front end – a design inspired by the Numero 9 and Wild Rubis concept cars. This, together with a prestigious, sculpted grille, named 'DS Wings' – a nod to DS of 1955 – and boomerang-shaped Daytime Running Lights, creates a dynamic and distinctive look.

The profile of DS 5LS is both understated and refined; it boasts an elegant silhouette, thanks to a signature chrome side trim, extending from the windows to the boot. This chrome trim traces a subtle shark fin shape across the rear side panel, a typical style feature of DS models.

The dynamism of DS 5LS is further enhanced by a wide-track stance, combined with large wheels. Unique LED lamps, which offer a 3D accent thanks to a chrome ring inset within the glass, add to the saloon's striking rear end.

Sophistication is the theme within the cabin, with an emphasis on luxury materials, such as metal, wood and leather. DS 5LS features quality leather fittings throughout the cabin to ensure a pleasurable driving experience for driver and passengers alike and this is highlighted by the "watch strap" design of the seats – a signature feature of DS models and a perfect illustration of quality French craftsmanship.

DS 5LS is as comfortable as it is stylish; boasting the longest wheelbase in the C segment (2.71m), the luxury saloon is a class leader in on-board comfort. With massaging front seats, airliner-style headrests, rear seats inclined at a 29° angle, an air ioniser and an advanced stereo system, driver and passenger comfort is paramount.

The Chinese-built model also contributes to an easier driving experience, with keyless access and start, blind spot monitoring, front and rear parking sensors and a reversing camera, as well as a complete range of multimedia systems.

DS 5LS incorporates the latest technologies, including engines like the THP 160 and THP 200 which feature sequential direct injection, fed by a high-pressure pump, as well as Twin Scroll turbo compressors. Paired with a six-speed automatic gearbox, these engines deliver excellent performance to complement the styling of DS 5LS.

DS 5LS will be available in nine body colours, including Nocciola Brown, an original colour with subtle, shimmering highlights.

A standalone brand in China with a network of more than 50 DS Stores, DS line is set to continue its expansion in the territory. Following on from the production of DS5 and the new DS5 LS at Shenzhen, a new locally-produced SUV is also expected to be brought out in China next year.

By Noah Joseph