DS 6WR channels Citro?n Wild Rubis into Beijing

Wed, 16 Apr 2014

Citroën has unveiled preliminary images and information about "the first ever SUV for the brand," the DS 6WR, before the model's official debut at the upcoming Beijing Motor Show. Said to be directly inspired by the Wild Rubis concept that bowed in Shanghai last year, the new addition to the DS family breaks new ground for the French brand, while not exactly living up to the SUV tradition.

The DS 6WR will slot in at the top of the brand's luxury-oriented DS range (where it will also be built), offering space and versatility along with added size for Chinese customers. Citroën is as-yet unclear if the model will make it to Europe, or elsewhere in the world.

The French automaker will initially offer the utility vehicle with a choice of two engine options, an e-THP 160 and THP 200 – those numbers seem to reference output in metric horsepower, meaning roughly 158 hp and 197 hp, respectively. Each mill offers both direct injection and a twin-scroll turbo, and both mate up to a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Despite a proliferation of SUV references in the short press release below, the DS 6WR's lack of all-wheel drive, even as an option, along with it's car-like styling and ride height have us calling this one firmly in crossover territory. The front-drive vehicle comes equipped with Citroën's "Grip Control" traction control system, in place of turning wheels at all corners.

You'll find just a few initial images of the wild DS 6WR in the gallery, and can look forward to more as we bring you live coverage from Beijing, later this month.

DS 6WR: WILD & REFINED PREMIUM SUV TO BE UNVEILED AT BEIJING SHOW

- DS 6WR, an all-new premium SUV, will be unveiled this month's Beijing Motor Show

- Directly inspired by the Wild Rubis concept, DS 6WR features unique styling & combines SUV versatility with DS sophistication & refinement

- Powered by e-THP 160 & THP 200 engines, with 6-speed automatic transmission

- DS is unveiling a sophisticated new SUV at this year's Beijing Motor Show – DS 6WR – the first SUV for the brand.

Designed in Paris and directly inspired by the Wild Rubis concept car, DS 6WR is a premium SUV and a new approach for DS: rebellious, untamed, yet pure and sophisticated. Following on from DS 5LS, this is the first SUV for the brand and represents the next stage in the development of DS in China and around the world.

The unique body lines combine SUV styling with DS design cues. At 4.55m long, 1.86m wide and 1.61m tall, with a long wheelbase of 2.73m and 19-inch wheels, DS 6WR's generous dimensions meet the needs of premium SUV buyers in terms of space, versatility and dynamics.

DS 6WR is specified with Grip Control – for optimised traction on all types of terrain – without the need for a four-wheel drive system. This benefits both fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The e-THP 160 and THP 200 powerplants are mated to a 6-speed automatic gearbox and feature sequential direct injection with a high-pressure pump and a twin scroll type turbocharger.

A truly modern SUV, DS 6WR's body is wide and low with unique, charismatic styling. There is a chrome-finished side signature with aluminium bars that accentuate the impression of height and sculpted rear wings. The new front end identity, inaugurated by DS 5LS, features 'DS Wings', a new grille design that takes its name from the two chrome-finished wings connecting it to the headlamps. The incisive light signature features Xenon technology and DRLs that appear in a tuning-fork layout.

At the rear, the lights appear integrated into the wraparound tailgate. The glass is set in chrome, further underlining the 3D design of the lights. To complete the rear signature, DS initials are embossed on the side of each light cluster. The sculpted style of the wraparound tailgate is underlined at the base with a chrome finish and a twin exhaust.

Following DS5 in September 2013 and DS 5LS, which was launched at the end of March this year, DS 6WR will be the third DS model to be built in China at the Shenzhen site. DS 6WR will be introduced by end of the year in China in the first instance. Another locally built model will also be unveiled in the coming months. The development of DS is underpinned by an expanding network with 56 'DS Stores' in the country's biggest cities

The Beijing Motor Show takes place at the China International Exhibition Centre from 20-29 April.

By Seyth Miersma