The DS 9 will be entering the global mid-size executive saloon market with a plug-in hybrid drivetrain and active driver assistance systems.
The global luxury saloon segment has seen a new challenger in the form of the DS 9 saloon. The DS 9 is built on a new version of the PSA’s EMP2 (Efficient Modular Platform 2) shared with the DS 7 Crossback but with a longer wheelbase. Measuring at 4.93 metres long and of 1.85 metres wide, the DS 9 is said to benefit the rear passenger. In terms of size, the DS9 stands between the BMW 5 Series and the Volvo S90.
Likewise, the DS 9 will be offered with as a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The 355 bhp E-TENSE drivetrain consists of a 222 bhp PureTech turbocharged petrol engine and a 108 bhp and 320 Nm electric motor. On electric power alone, the DS 9 can be driven up to 135 km/h with a range between 40 and 50 kilometres (WLTP) from its 11.9 kWh battery.
In time, the DS 9’s E-TENSE powertrain offering will expand with the addition of a 247 bhp, 2-wheel drive version with increased range, and a 350 bhp performance version with four-wheel drive, while a 222 bhp PureTech non-hybrid variant will also be available. The Chinese market will get the 247 bhp E-TENSE model from launch. Regardless, all the drivetrains options mentioned will come with an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
What makes a true DS is the brand’s exceptional ride isolation, which the DS 9 will come with DS Active Scan Suspension. The suspension system utilises a camera which scans the road, while level sensors, accelerometers and drivetrain sensors record every movement. The system then primes the adaptive dampers of each wheel for road imperfections. Moreover, the DS 9 features laminated acoustic glass that is combined with hard-bonded body to enhance strength, subdue noise and reduce vibrations.
And being a French-made car, the DS 9 saloon takes on luxury in a very French way. Through the personalisation of ‘DS Inspirations’, each interior theme is named after famous quarters in Paris. These include ‘Bastille’ and ‘Rivoli’ which comes with grained leather seats. While ‘Performance Line’ features black Alcantara and the range-topping ‘Opéra’ will come with Art Rubis Nappa leather. The latter trim level is also offered with adjustable, multi-coloured ambient lighting with eight colour shades and a steering wheel clad in Art Rubis leather.
Like a cherry on the cake, the DS 9’s centre console is finished with ‘Clous de Paris’ guilloche, the iconic signature of fine French watchmaking, reiterated by the 180-degree rotating B.R.M timepiece on top of the dashboard. Moreover, the specially developed Focal Electra sound system comes with stainless-steel tweeter grilles among the fourteen speakers positioned around the cockpit.
The DS 9 comes with Level 2 semi-autonomous driving, which is usable from 30 km/h up to 180 km/h. The DS Drive Assist utilises multiple sensors and an onboard camera to position the DS saloon in its lane. Besides keeping the car in line, the autonomous driving system assists driving in start-stop traffic conditions. This means that lane-keep assist, adaptive cruise control and automatic braking are part of the package.
The DS 9 will be produced in China and will be sold around the world.
