It’s not a secret that DS plans a flagship model that will allow it to compete with established executive sedans such as the Mercedes-Benz E-Class and BMW 5 Series, especially in China.
The premium brand’s big saloon is rumored to adopt the DS 9 nameplate and arrive in China at the end of this year and possibly in Europe from 2020. So far we haven’t seen any photos of the flagship model but a member of the Worldscoop forum has posted two images that allegedly reveal the design of the DS 9.
Also read: DS Officially Reveals its Chinese Spearhead, the New 5LS
As you can see, it looks like we’re dealing with two photographs of promotional material for China, which will be the main market for the DS flagship. The images reveal a sleek silhouette that some forum users liken to that of the China-exclusive Peugeot 508 L. Could the DS 9 be a rebadged long-wheelbase 508?
That’s certainly a possibility judging from these photos — the profile clearly matches the proportions and glasshouse of the 508 L. The DS 9 features brand-specific front and rear ends, though. The face features the same hexagonal grille seen on recent DS models and a similar LED DRL signature as the DS 3 Crossback.
The headlights and taillights are unique to the DS 9 and have an Audi vibe about them. Expect the DS 9 to feature frameless windows and a five-door fastback body style, just like the 508. The flagship DS model also appears to feature pop-out door handles, although we’re not 100 percent sure about that given the images’ low quality.
The DS 9 is expected to debut at the Guangzhou Auto Show in late November and go on sale across China shortly after. The DS 9 is also likely to arrive in Europe during 2020.
Note: A previous version of this article stated that the car’s name was DS 8; the story has been updated with the DS 9 nameplate as confirmed by recent patent photos from China
