DS 9 Fastback Uncovered In China As Rebadged, Luxed-Up Peugeot 508 L

Well, we didn’t have to wait too long to see the new DS 9 fastback with no camouflage whatsoever, did we?

Following yesterday’s sighting of the flagship model undergoing testing in Europe, the first uncensored photos surfaced in China revealing the car’s exterior design in its entirety. The patent images released by China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology also reveal the new model’s name.

Previously referred to as the DS 8, the premium model is actually called DS 9. You can see that written clearly on the tailgate, where a “45 THP” badge is also visible under the model’s name translated in Mandarin.

Also Read: Our Review Of The Euro-spec 2019 Peugeot 508 Fastback

The styling is familiar, as it was previewed in May by two leaked images that revealed a virtually identical profile with the China-exclusive Peugeot 508 L, a hexagonal grille, and sleek horizontal LED headlights and taillights.

Details include the brand-specific chrome trim under the lights, a chrome strip uniting the taillamps, and LED DRLs similar to the DS 3 Crossback. Expect the DS 9 to feature frameless windows and a five-door fastback body style, just like the Peugeot 508.

The DS 9 will be built in China by the Changan-PSA joint venture using the French automaker’s EMP2 architecture. The model is slightly bigger than the long-wheelbase 508 on which it’s based, measuring 4,933 mm (194.2 in) in length, 1,855 mm (73 in) in width, and 1,468 mm (57.8 in) in height, with a wheelbase of 2,895 mm (114 in).

The new car’s public debut will take place at the Guangzhou Auto Show in December, with the DS 9 offering two powertrains at launch: a 1.6-liter turbo four making 200 HP and a plug-in hybrid using a 1.6-liter gasoline engine and an electric motor with an unspecified output, though that powertrain is most likely the same one used by the 225 PS (223 hp) 508 L PHEV. The 45 THP petrol version has a top speed of 236 km/h (147 mph), while the E-Tense PHEV goes up to hit 240 km/h (149 mph).