If Ain't Broke, Don't Fix It | New DS Performance

Apart from looking to be perfect, the DS 5 may be close to perfection. At this time (after half of the production cycle) most of the face-lifts are suggesting that a particular model has to be trimmed in order to get rid of the small defects. The DS 5 has no visual signs of any extensive design upgrades whatsoever. Neither has the technical or comfort part got any better either. This may mean that the company is satisfied with what they have. Which is a good message to the customers. Could this mean the DS 5 is perfect? No. But close to it. Very close. At least visually. After all that is exactly why we fell in love with it in the first place.        

DS Performance, synonymous with the FIA Formula E Championship, is the creative force behind a new trim level – ‘DS Performance Line’ that will be available across the DS Automobiles range from October. Officially revealed for the first time today, the DS Performance Line combines the spirit of the GT with refinement and the latest DS brand technologies.

For DS Automobiles, the last year has been all about performance. DS Virgin Racing reached the podium in its first Formula E season by winning the Buenos Aires E-prix and repeatedly finishing in the points or starting at the front of the grid throughout the 2015/2016 campaign. DS E-TENSE was revealed at the Geneva Motor Show as a unique, high-performance electric car showcasing future DS technology and styling, and New DS 3 Performance and New DS 3 Cabrio Performance were recently launched as two models proudly expressing their dynamic credentials.

Now, with the introduction of the DS Performance Line, the brand’s engineers and designers – along with the DS Performance motor sport division – have utilised their know-how to create this new offering.

"The ‘DS Performance Line’ offers all the fundamental ingredients of a Grand Tourer, namely style and driving pleasure," said Éric Apode, DS Automobiles’ Vice President for Products and Business Development.

PERFORMANCE APPARENT FROM THE VERY FIRST GLANCE

Be it a New DS 3, New DS 3 Cabrio, New DS 4 or DS 5, a Performance Line model is instantly recognisable.  Each body style is specified with a contrasting black roof, combined with a specific palette of body colours (seven for New DS 3, six for New DS 4, and five for DS 5). The new large gloss black alloy wheels feature the DS logo set against a Carmine Red background on the centre caps to add exclusivity to all DS Performance Line models.

The signature colours of DS Performance (Carmine Red, White and Gold) are seen on key components of the vehicle, such as the door mirrors and the rear spoiler. In addition, the front doors and bonnet are adorned with special new ‘DS Performance Line’ badges.

REFINEMENT AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL TO COMPLIMENT THE DYNAMIC STYLE

Refinement and attention to detail are two fundamental values for DS Automobiles. The DS Performance Line pays tribute to these brand values with a number of specific features including a new style of upholstery with black Dinamica cloth, or a choice of two grades of leather trim. The overstitching on the seats reflects the colours of DS Performance. The special stitching also adorns the door panels, the gear lever gaiter and the leather steering wheel.In addition, the front seats are embroidered with a ‘DS Performance Line’ emblem.

The quality of the leather, and the other materials used, enhances the refinement of each interior. A choice of either grained or Nappa leather is available across the entire range. There is metallic detailing within the cabin, including chrome inserts on the steering wheel and door sill protectors to further enhance the meticulous style of the interior. Finally, New DS 3, New DS 4 and DS 5 offer LED lighting to illuminate the cabin.

On the outside, the DS grille is accentuated by the DS LED Vision light signature – a technology that takes distinction to a new level.

FROM ENGINES TO CONNECTIVITY: THE MOST EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGIES

The DS Performance Line features a broad range of efficient engines with outstanding torque, ultra-low CO2emissions and fuel consumption. All these engines feature Stop & Start technology.

The Performance Line also features the DS brand’s latest technological developments including a 7-inch touchscreen, Satellite Navigation, Mirror Screen (MirrorLink® and Apple CarPlay™), and DS connected services via the DS Connect Box.

With its dynamic look, the DS Performance Line is dedicated to drivers seeking GT-inspired styling, combined with a choice of refined and efficient engines.

The DS Performance Line will go ‘on sale’ in the UK on 1 October, 2016.

DS PERFORMANCE LINE	BODY COLOURS	ENGINES & TRANSMISSIONS
New DS 3 & DS 3 Cabrio	Shark Grey, Polar White, Arctic Steel, Perla Nera Black, Pearl White, Sport Yellow, Ruby Red	PureTech 110 S&S manual or EAT6, PureTech 130 S&S 6-speed manual, BlueHDi 100 S&S manual, BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual (not available on DS 3 Cabrio)
New DS 4	Platinum Grey, Cumulus Grey, Perla Nera Black, Polar White, Pearl White, Ultimate Red	PureTech 130 S&S 6-speed manual, THP 165 S&S EAT6, THP 210 S&S 6-speed manual, BlueHDi 120 S&S 6-speed manual or EAT6, BlueHDi 150 S&S 6-speed manual, BlueHDi 180 S&S EAT6
DS 5	Platinum Grey, Cumulus Grey, Perla Nera Black, Pearl White, Hurricane Grey	THP 165 S&S EAT6, THP 210 S&S 6-speed manual, BlueHDi 150 S&S 6-speed manual, BlueHDi 180 S&S EAT6