By: Jason Woosey
Paris - Citroën's DS4 already seemed to have some crossover ambitions when it first hit the scene back in 2011, but just in case the original didn't look rugged enough for you, the facelifted range now includes a 'Crossback' version.
In the new line-up, which loses the Citroën badges because DS is now its own brand, you get a choice of two distinct versions: a hatchback with a normal ride height and a crossover model with beefed up styling and a 30mm-higher ride height.
Its various stylistic add-ons, including wheel arch mouldings, roof bars and distinct black alloy wheels, give the Crossback “go-anywhere looks”, Citroën's words not ours, although it's worth pointing out that this is still strictly a front-wheel drive city slicker.
Both versions have a completely new face sporting the new 'DS Wings' family grille and redesigned LED headlights, while the Crossback is set apart by black trim below the grille. The DS4 is now available with a range of two-tone exterior paint schemes, spoiling customers to a choice of up to 38 colour combinations.
Inside the DS4 has a cleaner look as 12 buttons previously found on the centre console have been sucked into the new seven-inch touch-screen, which also offers Mirror Screen technology to bring your Android or iOS phone into the thick of the action.
The technological trickle continues in the engine bay, where its maker's 1.2-litre Puretech turbopetrol, rated at 96kW and 230Nm, replaces the previous normally aspirated 1.6. The midrange 1.6 THP turbopetrol gains a new six-speed autobox while the top version gets a new THP engine that's good for 155kW and 285Nm, up from 147kW/275Nm. For diesel-heads, DS offers a range of BlueHDi motors with improved efficiency, and with outputs ranging from 88kW/300Nm to 132kW/400Nm.
Peugeot Citroen SA has yet to make a decision on whether the DS4 is coming to our shores as the company is still conducting feasibility studies.
Would you consider this a viable alternative to the usual premium hatch suspects?
IOL