Used DS 4 Review (2010-2018) MK1
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Excellent comfort
- Well-equipped
- Available in hatchback and crossover bodystyles
- Narrow rear door apertures
- Steering isn't the most informative
- Fixed rear windows
What's the DS 4 like?
The first Citroën DS 4 looked great from every angle inside and out, but it suffered from a knobbly, unsettled ride.
Then in 2015 the company decided to launch DS as a standalone premium marque separate from the rest of its cars.
This was a good idea, since they're different in many ways, even though they’re based on the same floorpans.
DS 4’s suspension was improved beyond recognition, giving a marvellously comfortable ride over all surfaces.
It’s a stylish and avant-garde family hatch with the addition of a high SUV stance, and it really stands out from the crowd.
Engines
PureTech petrol engines start with a 1.2-litre turbo that has 130bhp, and then comes a 1.6-litre turbo automatic with 165bhp and the same engine with 210bhp and a 6-speed manual.
The benchmark 0 to 60mph takes 9.6 seconds, and it’s capable of 56mpg at the very best.
The 1.6-litre auto gets to the mark in 8.4 seconds and can do 51mpg, while the 210bhp range topper gets to 60mph in 7.6 seconds, with economy of 48mpg.
BlueHDi diesels are a 1.6-litre with 118bhp, and a 2.0-litre with either 150 or 180bhp. The 1.6-litre, despite its lowly power, reaches 60mph in 10.9 seconds, but its economy is excellent, reaching a best of 74mpg.
The 2.0-litre 150bhp unit gets to 60mph in 8.5 seconds, and yet can still do 72mpg, while the 180bhp comes with a standard automatic gearbox. This brings economy down to 64mpg, and takes 8.6 seconds for the sprint.
A 6-speed manual gearbox is standard in most and the automatic is a manual with an automatic clutch, which is great to use.
It’s the 210bhp petrol you want if you really enjoy your driving. They're smooth and beautifully tuneful power units and while never intrusive, rev sweetly up a wide rev range.
But the 1.6-litre BlueHDi diesel is the economy king, and with fuel prices rising, many will want to seek it out.
Driving Experience
Petrol and diesel versions have decent to superb performance, with safe handling and good roadholding.
The clutch is light, the gear change sweet, the brakes superb, and the higher than average driving position marvellous.
Peter Hayward
Comfort, as I have said above, is second to none, but although the DS 4 is always safe through the corners, there's a fair amount of roll when pressed and the steering isn't particularly informative.
Equipment
Mid-range DSign Nav models come with an alarm, traction control, audio remote controls, electric heated mirrors, air conditioning, alloys, and cruise control.
They also have excellent electrically adjusted part-leather sports seats, parking sensors, and sat nav.
Although the rear door apertures are a little narrow, there's enough space for one 6-footer to sit comfortably behind another.
You may also be interested in...
Find your DS 4 your way with CarStore
There truly are few other cars on the market like the DS 4. Its distinct looks, excellent driving performance, and variety of equipment make it a solid choice for those wanting to travel in style and stand out from the crowd.
