Stellantis brand DS Automobiles has launched the updated DS N°4 compact hatchback, introducing a fully electric E-Tense model with a 450-kilometre range alongside a refreshed plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant. The new DS N°4 is slated to arrive in Germany by late September, with UK deliveries expected in early 2026.
Focusing heavily on technological advancement, DS Automobiles highlights efficiency and performance improvements across both electrified powertrains. The electric DS N°4 E-Tense is powered by a 213hp (157kW) motor delivering 343Nm of torque, paired with a 58.3 kWh nickel-enriched battery that enables a WLTP combined range of up to 450 km.
The vehicle incorporates a redesigned thermal management system featuring a new heat pump and upgraded cooling and heating components, improving energy efficiency and passenger comfort in various climates. Drivers can select from three regenerative braking modes (D, B, B+) via steering wheel paddles for tailored energy recovery. Charging capabilities include an 11 kW AC onboard charger and a 120 kW DC fast-charging option, allowing the battery to recharge from 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes.
The PHEV version receives a powertrain upgrade, combining a 180hp turbocharged petrol engine with a 125hp electric motor linked to a new eDCT7 dual-clutch automatic gearbox. Together, this system produces 225hp and 360Nm, accelerating the vehicle from 0-100 kph in 7.1 seconds. The new 14.6 kWh battery provides an electric-only WLTP range of up to 81 km, a 30% improvement from the previous model. Charging options include a standard 3.7 kW onboard charger, with an optional 7.4 kW upgrade.
The redesigned DS N°4 also showcases refreshed exterior styling, with a wider grille finished in mass-dyed black and a new LED lighting signature inspired by the DS E-Tense Performance concept and the DS 8 flagship. This includes a horizontal light strip extending into the grille and an illuminated DS badge, with the Étoile trim adding DS Matrix LED Vision headlamps. Measuring 4.40 metres in length, 1.87 metres in width, and 1.47 metres in height, the model features flush door handles, a contrasting floating roofline, and standard 19-inch wheels, with 20-inch wheels available on the PHEV.
Interior updates include high-density foam seats with optional massage and ventilation, a 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, a 10-inch central touchscreen, and an optional DS Extended Head-Up Display projecting key data into the driver’s line of sight. Electric-specific features encompass real-time route planning, battery preconditioning, and Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability for external power supply.
Boot space varies by drivetrain: 430 litres in the hybrid, 390 litres in the electric E-Tense, and 360 litres in the PHEV version. Thierry Metroz, DS Automobiles Design Director, described the lighting design as “a dramatic and easily recognisable result,” combining influences from their performance concept and flagship models to create a distinctive front-end appearance.