DS has announced a new range-topper for its DS 9 line of plug-in hybrid saloons.
The DS 9 E-Tense 4x4 360 sees a 200hp four-cylinder petrol engine combined with an 11.9kWh battery pack and two electric motors (110hp and 113hp respectively) to send power to all four wheels. This model flagship is capable of reaching speeds of up to 140km/h on electric power alone, though, driven more sedately, an electric-only range of 47km of mixed driving is possible.
Performance upgrades
DS says that development of the E-Tense 4x4 360 was overseen by DS Performance, the company's motorsport division which is a major player in Formula E, winning drivers' and constructors' championships in 2019 and 2020; as such, the company says, upgrades to the higher-end model extend beyond the powertrain.
Different front and rear axles mean that the 360 has a slightly wider track than standard models as well as uprated brake calipers and bigger discs which are employed if more stopping power is needed after electrical energy recovery. Other upgrades over lesser DS 9 models include a number to the suspension system with unique shock absorbers, springs and anti-roll bars. All versions are equipped too with DS Active Scan suspension which uses cameras and sensors to read the road ahead, sensing for bumps or dips in order to prepare the suspension for impact, cushioning the ride for the occupants.
Another few visual touches differentiate the 360 from other DS 9 models including exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, DS Performance branding on the brake calipers and DS Performance badges on the front and boot lid.
Single-motor version
In addition to the new top-of-the-line model, DS also announced another new version of the DS 9, the E-Tense 250. This front-wheel drive model uses the same 200hp engine as the 360, but with just the single 110hp electric motor. A 15.6kWh battery promises electric-only mixed driving of up to 61km.
What to expect from the DS 9?
Both the 360 and 250 are available in Performance Line and high-end Rivoli trims and both are equipped with a 7.4kW charger enabling 0-100 per cent battery top-ups in two hours, 23 minutes.
Beyond that, expect comfort galore with heated, cooling and massaging Nappa leather seats, crystal-effect switchgear and soft, Alcantara furnishing throughout. There's the option of a fourteen-speaker sound system too with, in some versions, stainless-steel tweeter grilles and a clock made by BRM, a French manufacturer of very expensive watches.
When is the DS9 coming to Ireland?
Originally scheduled to arrive last September, due to the global chip shortage restricting supply, the DS 9 isn't yet on sale in Ireland; it's now due to arrive here later in 2022.
Full details of the DS 9 line-up in Ireland - including the pricing - have yet to be announced.