NEW CITROËN DS5 5LS

On 19 December, CITROËN unveiled its latest creation at the Carrousel du Louvre, one of Paris’ most emblematic venues, at an event attended by Chinese journalists and the international press: the DS 5LS. This luxury saloon produced at the Shenzhen plant in China is a further step in the development of the DS brand in that country. The DS 5LS harmoniously weds the volume and space of segment styling cues with the sophistication, style and power typical of a DS. This new model, which will go on sale in China in March 2014, will be a major driver of DS’s on-going international development.

A powerful and refined saloon The forceful yet sophisticated lines of the DS 5LS (L: 4.70m x W: 1.84m x H: 1.50m) show off the sensuous, seductive volumes and curves that are the hallmark of the DS universe. The DS 5LS introduces the DS’s new front end, inspired by the Numéro 9 and Wild Rubis concept cars.

It features a prestige, sculpted grille called “DS Wings”, a nod to the DS of 1955 that takes its name from the two chrome wings connecting the headlights. Together, these elements form a taut arc that gives the front end a dynamic, modern look. The DS emblem is displayed in the uniquely designed radiator grille. The boomerang-shaped DRLs put a distinctive finishing touch to this original front end, which allies force with sophistication. Signature chrome side trim extending from the windows to the boot highlights the strength and personality of the car’s silhouette while adding elegance and refinement. The chrome traces a subtle shark’s fin shape across the rear side panel, a typical style feature of DS models.

The wide-track stance combined with large wheels adds further vitality to the dynamic styling of the DS 5LS.  A distinctive feature of the powerful, sculptural rear end are the unique LED lamps, with the chrome ring set in the glass giving a 3D accent to the lighting functions. To enhance the exterior design of the DS 5LS, nine body colours are available, including Nocciola Brown, an original colour with shimmering but subtle highlights. Inside the car, the sophisticated tone of design is expressed in a unique driving position catering to the driver. The emphasis is on luxurious, authentic materials such as metal, wood and semi-aniline leather.

The passengers in this premium saloon ride in spacious, stylish surroundings, enhanced by the quality leather fittings found throughout the cabin, all the way to the dashboard. The leather, until now found only in luxury brands, is highlighted by the “watch bracelet” design of the seats, a signature feature of the DS models and a perfect illustration of fine French craftsmanship.

Advanced technology The DS 5LS incorporates the latest technologies, with engines like the THP 160 and THP 200 with sequential direct injection fed by a high-pressure pump, and Twin Scroll turbo compressors. These engines are paired with a 6-speed automatic gearbox. High standards of comfort The DS 5LS is also a leader in its segment when it comes to onboard comfort, with the longest wheelbase in the C segment (2.71 m), seats designed for exceptional comfort (massaging front seats, back seats inclined at a 29° angle, airliner-style headrests), purified air (air ioniser), acoustic pleasure (e.g. the Arkamys system, Denon hi-fi), equipment to make getting on the road and driving easier (keyless access and start, blind spot monitoring, front and back parking sensors, reversing camera, etc.) and a complete range of multimedia systems (colour touchscreen, DVD player, emergency call, and more). A new product to drive the DS offensive in China DS is a fully-fledged brand in China, a brand whose distinctive character is given full expression by the DS 5LS. This is the second DS model to be manufactured at the Shenzhen plant in China, after the DS5, which went on sale last 27 September. DS has no intention of stopping now, however, as a new, locally produced model – an SUV – will be brought out in China in 2014. Marketing of the DS is being supported by a network of 50 DS STORES in the country’s largest cities.