DS Automobiles

1.6L PureTech turbo petrol 180hp 225hp. 1.5L BlueHDi diesel 130hp. 1.6L E-Tense PHEV 225hp 300hp 360hp. 8-speed automatic EAT8 standard. FWD front-wheel drive. AWD E-Tense available. EMP2 platform PSA. 4593mm length. 2738mm wheelbase. 1680kg curb weight approximately. Five-seat SUV. DS Wings front design signature. Matrix Vision LED headlights. Pearl Top stitched dashboard. Watch strap seat design. 12-inch HD touchscreen. DS Iris System infotainment. Active Scan Suspension camera-controlled. Mulhouse France manufacturing. French luxury SUV. Premium positioning. Citroen heritage luxury evolution. Avant-garde design philosophy.

1.2L PureTech turbo 130hp. 1.6L PureTech 180hp 225hp. 1.5L BlueHDi diesel 130hp. 1.6L E-Tense PHEV 225hp. 8-speed automatic EAT8. FWD front-wheel drive. EMP2 platform. 4400mm length. 2675mm wheelbase. 1575kg curb weight. Five-seat crossover hatchback. DS Wings design front. Matrix LED Vision rotating modules. 10-inch touchscreen HD. DS Extended Head-Up Display. Alcantara Nappa leather interior. Clous de Paris detailing. Active Scan Suspension. Rüsselsheim Germany manufacturing. French luxury design. Premium compact segment. Citroen DS heritage evolution. Avant-garde styling.

1.2L PureTech turbo 100hp 130hp 155hp. 1.5L BlueHDi diesel 100hp 130hp. Electric E-Tense 136hp. 50kWh battery electric. 320km WLTP range electric. 100kW DC fast charging. 8-speed automatic EAT8 petrol diesel. Single-speed electric. FWD front-wheel drive. CMP platform PSA. 4118mm length. 2558mm wheelbase. 1532kg curb weight electric. Five-seat compact SUV. DS Wings signature front. Flush door handles electric. Matrix LED headlights. 10.3-inch touchscreen. DS Smart Touch controls. Clous de Paris trim. Poissy France manufacturing. French compact luxury. Premium small SUV. Accessible DS entry point.

The high-performance turbocharged engine that established DS as a serious performance brand. This 1,598cc turbocharged inline-four featured a dual overhead camshaft design with variable valve timing and direct injection. Developed in partnership with BMW as part of the Prince engine family, it employed a twin-scroll turbocharger with electronic wastegate control producing 18.0 psi of boost. The fuel system used direct injection at 2,175 psi pressure, while ignition used individual coil-on-plug units. The valvetrain used timing chain-driven dual overhead cams operating 16 valves via roller finger followers. With 9.5:1 compression and turbocharger assistance, it produced 207 hp at 6,000 RPM and 203 lb-ft from 2,000-4,500 RPM in DS3 Racing trim. This engine's responsive character and strong performance demonstrated that DS could compete with established premium hot hatches while maintaining French sophistication.

The refined four-cylinder engines that powered DS's first standalone models. These 1,598cc inline-fours featured the Prince architecture in both naturally-aspirated VTi and turbocharged THP configurations. The engines employed Valvetronic variable valve lift technology on the intake side, providing infinite adjustment of valve lift and duration. The fuel system used direct injection in THP versions, while ignition used individual coil-on-plug units. The valvetrain used timing chain-driven dual overhead camshafts operating 16 valves via roller finger followers. With 11.0:1 compression in naturally-aspirated form, the VTi produced 120 hp at 6,000 RPM, while the THP produced 156 hp at 6,000 RPM with 177 lb-ft from 1,400-4,000 RPM. These engines represented DS's commitment to refined, efficient powertrains that prioritized smooth operation over outright performance.

The sophisticated diesel-electric hybrid system that showcased DS's technological ambition. This system combined a 1,997cc turbo-diesel inline-four with a 27 kW electric motor on the rear axle. The diesel engine employed sequential twin turbochargers with variable geometry, producing 163 hp alone. The electric motor added 37 hp for total system output of 200 hp. The diesel engine featured common rail direct injection at 1,800 bar pressure, while the hybrid system used a 0.6 kWh nickel-metal hydride battery. The system could operate in front-wheel drive, rear-wheel drive, or all-wheel drive modes, with the electric motor providing silent urban operation. This complex system demonstrated DS's willingness to pursue innovative solutions, even if the execution was ultimately too complex for mass-market success.

The award-winning three-cylinder engine that became DS's volume powertrain. This 1,199cc turbocharged inline-three featured a dual overhead camshaft design with variable valve timing and timing belt in oil. The engine employed a single turbocharger with electronic wastegate control and 21.7 psi of boost. The fuel system used direct injection at 2,175 psi pressure, while ignition used individual coil-on-plug units. The valvetrain used belt-in-oil driven dual overhead cams operating 12 valves via roller finger followers. With 10.5:1 compression and turbocharger assistance, it produced 130 hp at 5,500 RPM and 170 lb-ft at 1,750 RPM. This engine's compact dimensions, smooth operation, and excellent efficiency made it perfect for DS's luxury compact models, providing adequate performance with exceptional refinement.

The plug-in hybrid system that powers DS's flagship sedan and defines their current electrification strategy. This system combines a 1,598cc turbocharged inline-four with an 81.2 kW electric motor. The combustion engine produces 197 hp alone, while the electric motor adds 109 hp for total system output of 225 hp. The battery system uses an 11.9 kWh lithium-ion pack providing 34 miles of electric range. The transmission is an eight-speed automatic with integrated electric motor, allowing pure electric operation up to 84 mph. The system prioritizes smooth, seamless power delivery that complements DS's Advanced Comfort program, with specific attention to noise isolation and vibration damping. This powertrain represents DS's approach to electrification—focusing on refinement and luxury rather than outright performance.

The all-electric powertrain that began DS's transition to full electrification. This system features a single permanent magnet synchronous motor producing 100 kW (134 hp) and 192 lb-ft of torque. The motor uses hairpin winding technology with direct oil cooling, achieving 95% efficiency. The battery system uses a 50 kWh lithium-ion pack with active thermal management, providing 200 miles of range. The power electronics use IGBT technology with 97% efficiency and support 100 kW DC fast charging. The complete powertrain is tuned for refinement rather than performance, with progressive throttle response and minimal regenerative braking intrusion. This electric powertrain demonstrates DS's commitment to making electric mobility luxurious and accessible while maintaining their distinctive French character.

The updated plug-in hybrid system for DS's compact premium hatchback. This system combines a 1,598cc turbocharged inline-four with a 81.2 kW electric motor and 12.4 kWh battery pack. The combustion engine features the latest PureTech evolution with reduced friction and improved thermal efficiency. The electric system provides 109 hp alone, with combined system output of 225 hp. The transmission is a new e-EAT8 eight-speed automatic specifically designed for hybrid operation. The system offers multiple driving modes including Pure (electric only), Hybrid, and Sport, with electric range of 35 miles. This powertrain represents the evolution of DS's hybrid strategy, with improved efficiency and refinement over earlier systems while maintaining their focus on luxury rather than performance.

The enhanced plug-in hybrid system for DS's refreshed premium SUV. This updated system combines the 1.6L PureTech engine with a more powerful 80 kW front electric motor and a new 81.2 kW rear electric motor for all-wheel drive capability. Total system output reaches 300 hp with 332 lb-ft of torque. The battery capacity increases to 14.2 kWh, providing 39 miles of electric range. The system features four driving modes including all-electric 4WD mode for low-grip conditions. The powertrain management has been refined for even smoother transitions between power sources, with specific attention to noise and vibration refinement. This system represents DS's most sophisticated hybrid application to date, combining efficiency with luxury and capability.

DS's future electric strategy based on Stellantis' STLA Medium platform. These systems will feature single and dual motor configurations with power outputs from 150-250 kW, prioritizing refinement and range over outright performance. The motors will use permanent magnet technology with hairpin winding and direct oil cooling. Battery packs will range from 87-104 kWh using NMC chemistry, providing 400-440 miles of range. DS's specific calibration will focus on silent operation, smooth power delivery, and minimal regenerative braking intrusion to maximize comfort. The platforms will support 400V and 800V charging capability with DC fast charging up to 160 kW. These platforms represent DS's vision for electric luxury—emphasizing refinement, comfort, and artistic design rather than chasing performance specifications.

The all-electric powertrain developed for DS's Formula E racing program. This system features a DS E-TENSE FE23 powertrain with maximum power of 250 kW (335 hp) in qualification mode. The motor-generator unit uses advanced magnesium casing and carbon fiber cooling to achieve exceptional power density. The energy recovery system can harvest up to 600 kJ per lap under braking. The battery system uses a standard 52 kWh lithium-ion pack supplied by the championship, with DS focusing on power electronics and motor development. This racing program provides valuable development experience for DS's road car electric powertrains, particularly in thermal management, efficiency, and power delivery control. The success of DS in Formula E—winning multiple championships—demonstrates their technical capabilities in electric powertrain development.

DS's unique approach to powertrain refinement and noise isolation. Every DS engine undergoes extensive acoustic engineering to ensure it meets the brand's luxury standards. This includes specific attention to reducing high-frequency mechanical noises, optimizing intake and exhaust sound character, and isolating vibrations from the passenger cabin. Hybrid and electric powertrains feature specific sound designs that create a distinctive but refined acoustic signature. The DS ACTIVE SCAN SUSPENSION even uses camera data to prepare the powertrain for upcoming road conditions, adjusting throttle response and transmission behavior preemptively. This comprehensive approach to refinement demonstrates that DS views powertrains as holistic sensory experiences rather than mere mechanical components.

How DS's powertrains embody their 'Art of Travel' brand philosophy. Rather than focusing on outright performance metrics, DS engineers powertrains to deliver a specific sensory experience—smooth, effortless progress that emphasizes comfort and refinement. Throttle response is calibrated for linearity rather than aggression. Transmission programming prioritizes seamless shifts over rapid gear changes. Hybrid systems are tuned for imperceptible mode transitions. Even performance-oriented models like the DS3 Racing maintain a level of refinement that distinguishes them from German competitors. This philosophy extends to electric powertrains, which are calibrated for progressive power delivery rather than neck-snapping acceleration. For DS, the quality of the journey matters more than the speed of arrival.

DS's approach to combining luxury with environmental responsibility. All DS powertrains are developed with sustainability considerations, from the use of recycled materials in construction to efficient manufacturing processes. The brand has committed to full electrification by 2024, with every new model featuring an electrified powertrain. However, DS's approach to electrification maintains their luxury focus—battery electric vehicles prioritize range and refinement over absolute performance, while plug-in hybrids offer electric urban mobility without range anxiety. This strategy demonstrates that DS believes luxury and sustainability are complementary rather than contradictory values, with electrification enabling new levels of refinement rather than being merely a compliance strategy.

The extreme electric powertrain featured in DS's vision for future luxury. This concept features a 500 kW (670 hp) electric powertrain with all-wheel drive and torque vectoring. The system uses next-generation solid-state battery technology providing 400+ miles of range. The power electronics feature gallium nitride technology with 99.8% efficiency. Most notably, the powertrain is integrated with DS's visionary design language, with artistic elements throughout the motor and battery enclosure. The concept demonstrates how DS envisions maintaining their artistic identity in an electric future, with powertrains becoming canvases for design expression rather than merely functional components. This represents the ultimate expression of DS's philosophy—that technology should serve artistry, not the other way around.

How modern DS powertrains draw inspiration from the original Citroën DS. While using completely modern technology, DS powertrains aim to recreate the magical, effortless quality that defined the original DS's driving experience. The focus on smooth, silent operation echoes the original DS's legendary refinement. The seamless power delivery of modern hybrid systems recalls the smooth progression of the original DS's hydraulic systems. Even the distinctive sound character of DS powertrains is carefully crafted to evoke the unique personality of the original. This connection to heritage demonstrates that while DS uses cutting-edge technology, their philosophical approach to powertrain development is deeply rooted in French automotive tradition—prioritizing comfort, innovation, and distinctive character over conventional performance metrics.

The sophisticated 8-speed automatic transmission co-developed with Aisin that forms the backbone of DS's conventional powertrain strategy. This electronically controlled transmission features a wide 7.0:1 ratio spread with closely spaced gears for seamless acceleration and optimal fuel efficiency. The torque converter includes an extended slip function for smoother low-speed operation and improved launch characteristics. Weighing 86kg, it handles up to 450 Nm of torque while providing the buttery-smooth shift quality expected in a luxury vehicle. The transmission programming includes specific DS calibration with emphasis on imperceptible gear changes and intelligent adaptation to driving style, perfectly complementing the brand's focus on refined comfort and sophisticated progress.

The advanced plug-in hybrid transmission that combines electric efficiency with refined performance. This system integrates an 81.2 kW electric motor within the EAT8 automatic transmission housing, providing seamless transition between electric and hybrid operation. The transmission can operate in pure electric mode up to 84 mph, with the electric motor providing either propulsion or regeneration as needed. The sophisticated control system coordinates between the 1.6L turbocharged engine and electric motor to deliver total system outputs up to 360 hp. The transmission programming prioritizes smooth mode transitions and intelligent energy management, maintaining DS's signature refinement while delivering up to 39 miles of electric-only range and exceptional efficiency.

The compact and efficient single-speed transmission for DS's first all-electric model. This reduction gear system features helical gears with 9.65:1 ratio, perfectly matched to the 100 kW permanent magnet synchronous motor's characteristics. The aluminum housing integrates the reduction gears, differential, and motor power electronics in a single compact unit weighing just 31kg. The transmission is specifically calibrated for progressive, refined power delivery rather than aggressive acceleration, maintaining the DS brand's luxury character while providing instant electric torque. The system enables 136 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque with complete silence and zero emissions, perfectly suited to urban luxury mobility while delivering up to 200 miles of range.

The revolutionary transmission control system that works with DS's camera-based suspension. This system uses forward-facing cameras to read the road ahead and pre-emptively adjust transmission behavior. When approaching bumps or rough surfaces, the transmission will hold gears longer to avoid shift disturbances. When detecting curves ahead, it prepares for optimal gear selection to maintain smooth progress. The system can even detect speed bumps and prepare for gentle acceleration afterward. This integration transforms the transmission from a reactive component to a predictive system that enhances overall ride comfort, demonstrating DS's innovative approach to luxury through technological integration rather than mere mechanical refinement.

The sport-oriented transmission programming available across the DS range. This calibration features quicker shift times (reduced by up to 55% compared to normal mode), more aggressive downshift logic, and sportier shift mapping that holds gears longer during acceleration. The system includes specific programming for mountain roads with enhanced engine braking and more responsive kick-down. In hybrid models, PERFORMANCE Line prioritizes combined power delivery for maximum acceleration while maintaining the refined character expected of DS. This demonstrates that even in sportier applications, DS maintains its focus on sophistication rather than raw aggression, with transmission behavior that enhances engagement without compromising comfort.

The latest evolution of DS's hybrid transmission technology in the compact premium segment. This system features an updated 1.6L turbocharged engine paired with a more powerful electric motor and larger 12.4 kWh battery. The transmission includes enhanced energy recovery programming that can harvest up to 0.3g of deceleration force during braking. The system offers multiple driving modes including a 'ZERO' pure electric mode for urban driving, 'HYBRID' for balanced efficiency, and 'SPORT' for maximum performance. The transmission coordination between thermal and electric power sources is so seamless that drivers often cannot detect the transition points, maintaining the magical, effortless progress that defines the DS brand character.

The racing-derived transmission technology from DS's successful Formula E program. The DS E-TENSE FE23 powertrain features a compact, ultra-efficient transmission designed for maximum power delivery within strict energy constraints. While production transmissions don't use the same extreme components, they benefit from the thermal management strategies, efficiency optimization, and power delivery calibration developed through racing. The understanding of electric motor characteristics and battery energy management gained from Formula E directly influences how DS calibrates its production electric and hybrid transmissions, particularly in balancing performance with efficiency—a crucial consideration in both racing and real-world electric vehicle operation.

The sophisticated all-wheel drive hybrid system introduced in the updated DS 7. This system adds a second 81.2 kW electric motor on the rear axle to the existing front hybrid setup, creating an advanced through-the-road AWD capability. The front transmission remains the EAT8-based hybrid unit, while the rear features a compact single-speed reduction gear. The system can provide pure electric all-wheel drive for low-grip conditions, rear-wheel drive for efficiency, or combined operation for maximum performance. The coordination between front and rear transmissions is seamless, with torque distribution managed electronically to maintain DS's signature refinement while enhancing traction and stability in all conditions.

The extensive measures taken to ensure transmission operation contributes to DS's premium acoustic environment. Even in conventional automatic transmissions, DS implements specific noise-reduction measures including helical gear teeth with optimized profiles, hydraulic damper systems to absorb shift shocks, and specific lubrication formulations that minimize mechanical noise. In hybrid and electric applications, the motor whine is carefully tuned to be both pleasant and unobtrusive. The transmission mounting systems use hydraulic bushings to isolate vibrations, while the shift programming avoids abrupt torque changes that could create driveline shunt. This comprehensive approach ensures that the transmission enhances rather than detracts from the serene, luxurious cabin environment.

The next-generation electric transmission system for DS's future electric vehicles on Stellantis platforms. These systems will feature single-speed reduction gears optimized for both efficiency and refinement, with specific DS calibration that prioritizes smooth, progressive power delivery over aggressive acceleration. The transmissions will be fully integrated with the electric motor and power electronics in compact, lightweight units. DS-specific tuning will focus on creating a distinctive driving character that maintains the brand's luxury values while delivering the instant torque and silent operation of electric propulsion. These future systems represent the evolution of DS's transmission philosophy—where technical sophistication serves artistic expression and sensory refinement.

The overarching philosophy that guides all DS transmission development and calibration. Rather than focusing on technical specifications or performance metrics, DS engineers transmissions to enhance the 'Art of Travel'—the sensory and emotional experience of movement. This means shift quality is prioritized over shift speed, smoothness over aggression, and refinement over raw response. The transmission programming learns driver behavior and adapts to create a personalized, always-comfortable experience. Whether in a conventional automatic, hybrid, or electric vehicle, the transmission's role is to make progress feel effortless and luxurious, transforming the functional act of gear changing into part of DS's distinctive French luxury proposition.

Created in 2014 to honor Citroën DS heritage—the revolutionary 1955 original earning 'Goddess' nickname through pioneering hydraulic suspension that made it France's presidential car—DS became a standalone brand through PSA's decision to pursue premium market positioning as a French luxury alternative to German marques. The avant-garde design philosophy channels Citroën's creativity heritage and technical innovation tradition from Paris design studio, showcasing French savoir-faire craftsmanship through watch strap seat inspiration, Clous de Paris detailing, and pearl stitching dashboards where art meets technology. Under 2021 Stellantis ownership, global expansion plans emphasize Chinese market focus with electric future commitment through E-Tense electrification, pursuing French luxury renaissance by blending heritage with innovation through design differentiation strategy. DS demonstrates PSA's strategy to compete in premium segments by creating standalone brands rather than elevating mainstream marques—separating the DS nameplate from Citroën allowed positioning as legitimate luxury alternative without budget-brand baggage, proving that sometimes the best path to premium positioning requires cutting ties to volume roots even when heritage provides foundation. The brand validates that French luxury can differentiate through design creativity and craftsmanship details rather than copying German engineering focus, and that sometimes embracing national design character proves more authentic than pursuing universal luxury language that erases cultural identity in pursuit of global appeal.