Technically, the new DS 5LS was unveiled to China’s press in the middle of December, but the car’s actual motor show world premiere is happening now in Geneva.
One would presume that, if it looks and feels like a Citroen, is made by Citroen and presented by Citroen, then it is a Citroen. Well, you can tick all boxes expect the last one, as the French automaker is marketing the 5LS under its newly announced DS luxury brand, created specifically for the Chinese market.
The 5LS is a 4.7m-long luxury sedan that rides on the same modified version of Citroen’s C4-derived platform as the DS5 hatchback, with the styling evoking the automaker’s Wild Rubis and Number 9 concept cars.
It will be made at Citroen’s new plant in Shenzhen, China, with local sales to start within the next few weeks. There are three petrol engines on offer, including a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter unit with 136PS (134hp), and two turbocharged 1.6-liter units delivering 160PS (158hp) and 200PS (197hp).
While the DS brand is restricted to China for now, if proven successful, Citroen may begin to spread its wings in other Asian countries as well.
By John Halas
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