Are you looking for a premium sedan that stands out from the crowd with its French elegance, advanced technology, and hybrid performance? If so, you might want to take a closer look at the DS 9 E-TENSE, the latest model from DS Automobiles, the luxury brand of Stellantis. This is a stunning vehicle that offers a unique proposition in the segment, combining a sleek and spacious design, a luxurious and comfortable interior, a range of innovative features, and a plug-in hybrid drivetrain that delivers efficiency and power. The DS 9 E-TENSE is now available to order in Germany, with prices starting from €58,910 ($66,000) for the base model and €72,910 ($81,500) for the top-of-the-line version.
A Sleek and Spacious Design
The DS 9 E-TENSE is based on the EMP2 platform, which allows for a long wheelbase of 2.9 meters and a generous interior space. The exterior design is inspired by the DS Aero Sport Lounge concept, which was unveiled in 2020 as a vision of the future of luxury mobility. The front end of the DS 9 E-TENSE features the signature DS Wings grille, which is flanked by the DS Active LED Vision headlights that adapt to different driving conditions and create a distinctive light signature. The vehicle's hood also features a B.R.M R180 timepiece, a tribute to the French watchmaker and a symbol of refinement and precision.
The side profile of the DS 9 E-TENSE is elegant and dynamic, with a chrome-finished sabre running from the headlight to the rear window. The sabre is inspired by the original DS from 1955 and adds a touch of sophistication and heritage to the vehicle. The rear end of the DS 9 E-TENSE is refined and modern, with a horizontal chrome strip connecting the LED taillights that create a three-dimensional effect. The bumper also integrates a dual exhaust system that enhances the sporty look of the vehicle.
A Luxurious and Comfortable Interior
The interior of the DS 9 E-TENSE is a showcase of French craftsmanship and luxury. The dashboard, door panels, and seats are covered with Nappa leather or Alcantara, depending on the trim level. The leather is hand-stitched with pearl stitching, a technique requiring skill and patience. The Alcantara is also hand-crafted with a guilloche “Clous de Paris” motif, which is a pattern that resembles tiny nails and creates a contrast between light and shadow. The crystal controls on the center console, and steering wheel are another example of the attention to detail and quality that characterize the interior of the DS 9 E-TENSE.
The DS Lounge package offers high comfort and convenience for passengers, especially those in the rear seats. The package includes heated, ventilated, and massaging seats that can be adjusted in multiple ways. The package also includes an Alcantara headliner, a Focal Electra sound system with 14 speakers, and a lounge armrest with a storage compartment and a wireless charger. The rear passengers can also enjoy their own climate control system and sun blinds.
A Range of Innovative Features
The DS 9 E-TENSE is equipped with a range of advanced technology features that enhance the driving experience and safety. One is the DS Iris System, an innovative infotainment system that can be controlled by touch, voice, or gesture. It has a customizable interface that adapts to different user profiles and preferences. The system also integrates Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone connectivity.
Another feature is the DS Active Scan Suspension, which is an intelligent suspension system that scans the road ahead with a camera and sensors to anticipate bumps and potholes. It adjusts the damping of each wheel individually to provide optimal comfort and handling. The system also works in conjunction with the DS Drive Assist, which is a semi-autonomous driving system that can control the speed, distance, lane position, and overtaking of the vehicle on highways and in traffic jams.
The DS Night Vision is another feature that enhances safety by using an infrared camera to detect pedestrians and animals in low-light conditions. It displays their images on the digital instrument cluster and warns the driver if they pose a risk of collision. The DS Driver Attention Monitoring is another feature that monitors the driver’s fatigue and distraction levels by using sensors and a camera. It alerts the driver if it detects signs of drowsiness or inattention and suggests taking a break.
The DS 9 E-TENSE also features other safety systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, park assist, emergency braking, and more.