- The DS 3 and DS 4 are getting a new hybrid powertrain that combines a 1.2-liter engine with a small battery and an electric motor.
- The hybrid powertrain improves efficiency by nearly 20%, enabling the models to escape government penalties.
- Pricing starts at €35,200 for the DS 3 Hybrid and €39,950 for the DS 4 Hybrid.
DS has plans to go electric-only, but the company has added a new hybrid powertrain to the 3 and 4. It’s a half step that is designed to increase efficiency, while avoiding the hassles of EV ownership.
Under the hood, there’s a 1.2-liter three-cylinder petrol engine that operates on the Miller cycle and is described as a “major evolution of the previous offering.” DS says it has been designed with hybridization in mind and features a new timing chain as well as a new variable geometry turbocharger.
More: DS Confirms Three EVs, All-New Models To Be Electric-Only Starting Next Year
All told, the engine produces 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and 170 lb-ft (230 Nm) of torque. It’s connected to a new six-speed dual-clutch transmission, which features an integrated electric motor developing 28 hp (21 kW / 28 PS) and 41 lb-ft (55 Nm) of torque. The motor is fed by a small 0.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack and it can power the vehicle at low speeds.
Thanks to this setup, the Hybrid variant is nearly 20% more efficient than the DS 3 PureTech 130 Automatic. Besides having lower emissions and fuel consumption, the model is 1.2 seconds faster as the dash from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) takes 8.4 seconds.
The numbers for the DS 4 Hybrid are similar as customers can expect up to a 16% improvement in fuel efficiency. The model is also 1.2 seconds faster than the PureTech 130 Automatic variant as it hits 62 mph (100 km/h) in 10.4 seconds.
While improved performance and increased efficiency is a winning combination, the models achieve a trifecta as they escape environmental penalties in France.
Aside from the hybrid powertrain, the models incorporate a handful of other updates including a pedestrian warning system and revised displays that show hybrid-specific information. Furthermore, since the hybrid components are fitted under the hood and floor, cargo space remains unchanged.
The DS 3 Hybrid is currently available to order and French pricing starts at €35,200. The DS 4 Hybrid begins at €39,950 and climbs to €44,250 in Étoile guise.
