DS 4 Crossback. Military beauty
The DS 4 Crossback is a luxury front-wheel drive crossover coupe, all-terrain version of the DS 4 hatchback. The Crossback was introduced in 2015 when the luxury brand DS Automobiles separated from Citroen and the models were reformatted in compliance with a new concept of aesthetically appealing, fashionable cars. Therefore, the DS 4 Crossback is primarily a beautiful vehicle, but this is not its only advantage. The new DS 4 Crossback is a 5-door coupe with increased ground clearance. It combines powerful lines and a strong personality that cannot be compared to any other car. This is the true epitome of French luxury.
The original DS 4 hatchback is a unique vehicle type that combines elements of a compact car and an SUV, but the Crossback is a little higher and a little more brutal, which, however, is imperceptible at first glance. The hatchback is an automotive representative of the French fashion industry. Continuing the analogy, we can say that the DS 4 Crossback is the same, but looks more like an off-road conqueror. Of course, this vehicle will not be able to handle harsh off-road conditions, but it can easily overcome any speed bump. In general, the marketers who positioned the Crossback as a vehicle for outdoor activities and low-risk adventures did not lie this time.
From a practical point of view, the DS 4 Crossback is not that different from the ‘passenger’ version. At the same time the Crossback is almost 3,000 euros more expensive than it. Conclusion? This is a vehicle for those who choose with their hearts. It is perfect for creative individuals who cannot overcome the craving for SUVs, but at the same time don’t want to buy the trivial German and Japanese vehicles!
Exterior
The new DS 4 Crossback features elegant and dynamic lines. New DS Wings radiator grille, high seating position and black spoiler, roof rails, high-gloss black wheels, black alloy wheels, panoramic windshield, black painted front bumper center and side moldings fully comply with the real French street style principles. Black color effectively envelops and emphasizes the magnificence of all lines and curves of the body. It highlights every line of the wheel arches, rear-view mirrors and rear spoiler. The French especially emphasize the DS LED Vision headlights, combining LEDs and xenon lamps. Citroën sees them as gems in a frame. In part, this is not just advertising praising, as they indeed look beautiful and illuminated the road just fine. According to Citroen, the ‘off-road’ DS 4 is 40 mm taller than usual. Do these figures indicate an increase in ground clearance? No, this is just an increase in the overall height, taking into account the rails.
Interior and equipment
The DS 4 Crossback has a high-quality, beautiful, comfortable interior with a digital design, although not all functions are activated via the touch screen, as it would not be stylish enough. The entry-level vehicle is well-equipped, featuring automatic headlights, heated door mirrors, a panoramic windshield, dual-zone climate control and a 7-inch color touch screen with satellite navigation, Mirror Link and Apple CarPlay and so on. The Crossback provides a lot of space for suitcases and bags. Lowering the rear seats frees up a whole cubic meter of space, enough for a wardrobe, cosmetics, and a collection of Italian Vogue over the past 10 years.
Engines
The entry-level version features a 1.6-liter Prince turbocharged gasoline engine with 160 hp, which was developed simultaneously for Mini and PSA. However, this engine comes with a mediocre timing belt drive and is prone to consume a lot of fuel. If you don’t want to have these problems, choose a 1.6-liter diesel engine with 120 hp or a 2-liter diesel engine with 180 hp, paired with a classic 6-speed hydromechanical transmission. The manufacturer indicates that the DS 4 BlueHDi 180 version with an automatic transmission accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds. But it feels like seven seconds. The average consumption in the combined cycle is about seven liters.
The DS 4 Crossback has the same handling characteristics as its ‘passenger’ counterpart. The only difference is the 180-mm ground clearance that can be noticed on the highway in case of a strong side wind or trucks that drive near your vehicle. But in the city, extra millimeters indeed make parking easier. Plus, the vehicle can easily jump onto the curb if needed. However, the vehicle is not designed for cross-country terrains. Just look at the overhangs and you will understand everything yourself.
Safety
The new DS 4 Crossback has received a five star rating (masimum) in Euro NCAP crash tests. Advanced options include a rearview camera, electronic stability program, ISOFIX child seat anchors and an emergency assistance system DS Connect Box.
