DS 5 – a concept car for the road

ITS maker’s own description of the DS 5 as ‘a concept car for the road’ hits the nail on the head.

As the brand’s flagship vehicle since last year’s separation from Citroen, the 5 looks every inch a supermodel with an avant garde design that really catches the eye.

Aggressive, swoopy and almost shark-like at the front with slash-back headlights and alloy wheels in the Japanese Shuriken throwing star style, it oozes character.

DS believes that the front end is the key feature on all premium cars and with its badge adorning the centre of the honeycomb grille the car is an equal for any hatchback on the road.

That cutting edge attitude extends to the car’s interior too – it’s beautifully kitted out with plenty of gizmos and soft leather upholstery.

Here though is where things become more a matter of personal taste. To me the cabin is too fussy with bits of alloy-look plastic adorning the dials, switches, gearshift, door handles, kickplates and on the grips of the flat-bottomed steering wheel.

A spoiler restricts visibility from the rear view mirror and I don’t appreciate the splitter between the glass sunroofs – even if it does reference an aircraft cockpit.

As for space, there’s plenty up front and an adequate amount for two back seat passengers – three at a push. And to be fair, the centre rear position is comfortable rather than rock hard and perched.

A wide, deep boot ensures ample space for large items and buyers also get a decent size stowage area in the centre armrest.

While a choice of petrol and diesel engines is up for grabs, the most efficient are the BlueHDi oil-burners, of which the tested 180PS variant has the potential to return an average 64.2mpg.

Mated to a six-speed automatic transmission incorporating manual mode it ensures plenty of mid-range wallop and a keenly damped feel at speed.

There’s little in the way of noise intrusion, the steering is well balanced and the Start/Stop set-up cuts in and out without any annoying delay.

Overall the driving experience is relaxed and comfortable – and while there’s no shortage of standard kit plus 10 safety systems, opting for the top grade Prestige trim brings in stuff like a rear-view camera and watchstrap leather upholstery.

Prices are from £26,350 for the DS 5 Elegance BlueHDi 150 with six-speed manual gearbox, rising to £35,370 for the Prestige Hybrid 4×4 200.