Following the world debut three months ago in Paris, Citroën has started sales of the DS 5LS sedan in China, the first vehicle branded exclusively as a DS.
Developed for the Chinese market, the new model is the second DS produced at the Shenzhen plant, joining the DS 5 for which production has begun six months ago in China.
Citroën says the DS 5LS is designed to meet the expectations of local car buyers while offering the best of French know-how. The addition of the 5LS is expected to boost DS’ model offensive in China, where the luxury brand has a network of 56 points of sale less than two years after its launch.
“China is the largest car market in the world, but it is also the fastest-growing premium car market in the world. That is why it is the No. 1 priority in the development of DS, our premium brand,” said DS CEO Yves Bonnefont.
“More than ever, we are on the offensive in this country, with the launch of three locally manufactured models in the space of a year: the DS5 last September, the DS 5LS today, and an SUV in the second half of the year,” the executive added.
The upcoming DS SUV is expected to be inspired by the DS Wild Rubis concept unveiled last year at the Shanghai Auto Show. The production version of the SUV may debut at the Beijing Auto Show (April 20-29), as Bonnefont hinted: “Come see us next month at the Beijing Motor Show to find out more!”
By Dan Mihalascu
PHOTO GALLERY
