The flagship model of Citroen’s higher-end sub-brand, the DS 5, receives its midlife facelift, which will be unveiled at the upcoming Geneva International Motor Show next month, ahead of its market launch across Europe this coming June. Unconventionally styled, the DS 5 sports the new signature look of the DS brand that was first shown in the DS 3 facelift launched last July. Central to the new appearance is a distinctive lighting signature combining the use of LED and Xenon illumination with sequential signal lights. A re-sculpted front grille sees the DS Wings logo taking the place of the famous double chevron; the hexagonal shape of the grille itself is highlighted by chrome surround. Further back, familiar elements of the outgoing DS 5 are carried over, such as the distinctive chrome sabre running along the bonnet edge from the headlight halfway up the A-pillar and its unique body silhouette that defies classification. The rear view is left largely unchanged. Ergonomics of the cabin was subject to a re-think as well, its control scheme notably revised to make do with 12 fewer buttons than before. The built-in infotainment system incorporates smart phone mirroring to enable safe usage of installed apps whilst on the move. The safety front sees blind spot monitoring join a range of equipment that already includes lane departure warning, auto high beam control, active and static cornering lights, hill start assist, stability and traction control, reverse camera, and heads-up display. Amenities include electric memory massage seats, keyless entry, heated side mirrors, electrochromic rear view mirror, ambient lighting, dual-zone climate control, and a Denon Hi-Fi system. A range of six Euro 6-compliant petrol and diesel powertrains are offered with the facelifted DS 5 with rated fuel consumption starting from as low as 3.5 l/100km for the Hybrid 4×4 model and 3.8 to 4.3 l/100km for diesel models. Diesel engines make up half the range, being available in outputs of 120hp/300Nm, 150hp/370Nm, and 180hp/400Nm. The hybrid version is fuel by diesel too, offering 200hp on tap alongside with the ability to potter around in all-electric mode. The 1.6-litre Prince engine should require no introduction to Malaysian motorists, although its outputs of 165hp and 240Nm are 9hp up from the current model. Paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission as standard, this engine’s official consumption in the DS 5 is rated at 5.9 l/100km, corresponding to CO2 emissions of 135 g/km. In late 2015, a 210hp version of the engine will join the range paired with a 6-speed manual transmission.
Pictures: Official Citroen release.
Keyword: Citroen DS 5 facelift set for Geneva unveil