Knysna-Plett Herald | Citroën DS5 sets new trends

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Citroën DS5 sets new trends
08:52 (GMT+2), Mon, 21 May 2012

The front end identifies the DS5 as a member of the DS family with an oversized air intake and a wide chrome-plated grille housing the classic chevron badge.

MOTORING NEWS - The revival of the iconic DS Line by Citroën and its positioning on models with eye-catching sophisticated and even quirky styling is playing a significant role in the revival of the famous French motor manufacturer that has been an industry trend-setter for almost a century now.

A third DS model is joining the DS3 and DS4, in the form of the larger DS5, which heralds a new phase in the development of the DS line of radical and assertive cars. The company sees the DS5 as a new take on the premium segment by combining a spacious interior with compact external dimensions. The compact design is aimed at bringing several advantages such as agility and responsiveness on the road as well as improved consumption and lower carbon emissions.

SLOGAN
Driven by the slogan "Dare to Surprise, Always Attract" the DS5 range consists of three engine variants - two turbo-charged petrol engines and a Euro V-compliant diesel. The THP 155 petrol turbo (155kW and 240Nm) and HDi 160 diesels (120kW and 340Nm) are mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the high output THP 200 (147kW of power and 275Nm of torque) is mated to the 6-speed manual gearbox. The range is then divided into two Style variants (THP 155 automatic and THP 200 manual) and two Sport derivatives (THP 200 manual and HDi 160 automatic).

In line with the Citroën credo of Creative Technologie, the DS5 features the brand's finest technology, including intelligent traction control, while a full colour heads-up display on a blade and a reverse parking camera are standard on the Sport derivatives.

Available as optional extras on all models is a second generation lane departure warning system and automatic activation of the high beam assist function depending on surrounding traffic.

The front end identifies the DS5 as a member of the DS family with an oversized air intake, a wide, chrome-plated grille housing the classic chevron badge while the car's incisive gaze is underscored by the standard LED light signature. Light is reflected by a thin chromed beading running from the tip of the headlamps to the front windows.

The car sits squarely on a wide track with diamond-effect wheels of 18 inch in diameter. Twin exhaust pipes are integrated into the bumper, with the rear view highlighted by a rear signature of six LED lights.

The DS5 is available in seven body colours and the chrome work also comes in a smoked version called Dark Chrome (optional on the Sport model with certain exterior colour options only).

SPACIOUS
The spacious interior is both welcoming and eye-catching. The driver-focused front section features a bold centrepiece, a wraparound dashboard with driver information situated conveniently and a wide central console with a small gear lever.
The main controls are grouped in the centre of the vehicle in central consoles, one lower down and one on the roof lining. The buttons, thumb wheels and special toggle switches provide an aircraft look and feel.

Besides the normal storage areas such as the glovebox and door panels the central console has a 1.5-litre double storage compartment under the armrest. The upper part features a jack and USB sockets for connecting mobile devices with Bluetooth streaming for convenience. Once plugged in the mobile devices are controlled by the audio system. A 12V power point is located behind the centre console.

The lower part, cooled and lit can hold a 1.5-litre bottle. The upper console, on the cockpit ceiling, includes two eyewear storage spaces. The transparent heads-up display is deployed to show essential information for the driver, (standard on Sport and optional on Style) while all three digital pads and the instrument cluster needles light up.

The ambient lighting creates a display of intermittent reds and whites around the driving position: red for the audio system and navigation zones and the door handles, with white for the cockpit console and air conditioning controls. The roof is another signature item, incorporating a new interpretation of the sunroof to suit a special car such as the DS5. The roof is divided into three wells of light, each one of which can be covered individually to suit the occupants.

INTERIOR
Despite the comparatively compact exterior dimensions of 4.5m in length (25cm shorter than a Citroën C5 saloon), 1.85m wide and 1.5m high there is a spacious boot of 468 litres VDA and generous interior space. The DS5 has five seats, five doors and saloon-like rear accessibility and spaciousness.

Other features include: Hands-free access and starting, hill-start assist, an electric parking brake, park assist with a reversing camera on the Sport models, speed-limiter cruise control, and fog lamps with static cornering lights.

VISIBILITY
The latter system adds an extra beam when cornering to increase visibility of the inner part of the bend or intersection up to 750 to the left or right of the car. The system operates automatically when the driver uses an indicator or the steering wheel is turned more than 60 degrees.

The powerful braking system uses the latest technology including Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), Anti-Skid Braking (ABS), an Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), while the braking system forms part of the intelligent traction control.

DETAILS AND PRICING
Those customers wanting to make their DS5 even more distinctive can specify the Club pack, which consists of "Club" leather upholstery, an audio Denon system, lane departure warning system and the automatic high beam assist. All models can be specified with optional 19" alloy wheels.

All DS5s are covered by a 3-year or 100 000km warranty and a 5-year or 100 000km service plan. The warranty coverage may be extended at extra cost to 5-years or 100 000km and buyers selecting the FreeDrive option enjoy the 5-year or 100 000km warranty and a 5-year or 100 000km maintenance plan.

The prices are: THP 155 Automatic Style R344 900; THP 200 Manual Style R374 900; THP 200 Manual Sport R395 900 and HDi 160 Sport R399 900. Club Pack Optional on the Sport model R14 000.