DS 4 Crossback review

A car which looks like a hatchback from the outside, but feels like an SUV from the driver's seat. Say hello to the DS 4 Crossback!

Citroen has launched a new brand in Ireland called DS, and this is one of the flagship models in its range, the new DS 4 Crossback. It combines the nimble driving characteristics of a family hatchback mixed with SUV styling, and it's a nice alternative to other ‘compact hatchbacks’ on the market such as the Volvo V40 and MINI Countryman. Although it may take time for Irish buyers to warm to the new DS naming convention, the DS4 Crossback is a strong all-round performer, with its key selling points being low running costs, eye-catching looks and plenty of kit served as standard.

What is it like?

The DS 4 Crossback is available in three different specifications and with a choice of one petrol and two diesel engines. Prices start from €30,495 for the base model, which undercuts its main rivals, and we drove the higher spec ‘BlueHDi 120 S&S’ diesel model which sits middle of the range in terms of specification. It features a super-efficient 1.6-litre diesel engine that is reasonably nippy and cheap to tax at €190 per year. Stepping inside, we love the simplicity of the cabin, sporty supportive seats and DS’s easy-to-use entertainment system. The rear doors while nicely sculpted, are quite small and can make access tight for taller passengers. That said, the DS feels like an SUV up front thanks to its high ride height and long dashboard. There are also some quirky features; sun visors which pull back and make the windscreen bigger, and the colour of the dash instruments can be changed from blue to red or white with the touch of a button.

Carzone verdict: 4/5

Competitively priced and different to the competition, the DS 4 Crossback will be high on the list for those searching for a new compact hatchback. The standard in this class is high however, and it does not deliver as engaging a drive as cars like the Mini Clubman at a similar. That said, the DS 4 Crossback’s high level of specification and low running costs are likely to appeal to the masses. With the six speed manual gearbox and start-stop system enabled we consistently achieved 6.2 litres per 100 kilometres of fuel economy. Features like satellite navigation, keyless entry, dual zone climate control, automatic lights and a crystal clear reversing camera display make it a strong all-round day-to-day family car, and a rather cool looking one at that. If that’s how you’ll be using the DS 4 Crossback, we’d recommend the 1.6-litre diesel version over the rest in the range. You can browse DS4 cars for sale on Carzone right now by clicking here

Test Car Details:

Model driven: DS 4 Crossback

Prices from: €30,495

Price as tested: €32,495

Annual Road Tax: €190

Engine: 1560cc four-cylinder diesel

Transmission: Six Speed Manual

Body style: 5-Door Compact Hatchback

Top Speed:188 km/h

0-100km/h: 10.6 seconds

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