N°4 E-Tense
Alternatives: Kia EV4, BYD Atto 3 Evo, Ford Capri, Peugeot e-408, Volkswagen ID.3 Neo, Hyundai IONIQ 3
Overview
The DS N°4 represents the French premium brand's transition to offer an electric hatchback, aiming to disrupt the premium compact segment dominated by German and South Korean rivals like the Volkswagen ID.3 Neo and Hyundai IONIQ 3. Positioning itself as a stylish alternative to the conventional premium hatchbacks, it blends a raised crossover-like stance with sleek, sharp lines to capture buyers looking for a distinct visual identity combined.
Design
Embodying a classic French luxury design language, the exterior features a striking silhouette characterized by sharp lines, flush-fitting door handles, and a commanding road presence. The front is dominated by the signature DS Matrix LED Vision headlights, complemented by vertical daytime running lights that draw the eye downward. Muscular geometric lines along the sides give the vehicle a sculpted appearance, while large alloy wheels fill the arches comfortably, bridging the gap between a traditional hatchback and a compact crossover.
Interior
Stepping inside, the focus is firmly on high-end craftsmanship and technology. The cabin uses premium materials such as optional Nappa leather with the brand's signature watchstrap stitching and forged carbon fibre accents. Ergonomics are heavily tech-focused, centered around the HD touchscreen and DS Smart Touch gesture control pad on the center console. Physical buttons are minimized, integrated instead into elegant jewel-like switches that further compliment the premium, high-fashion aesthetic.
Performance & Powertrains
Built on the advanced STLA Medium platform, this model features a front-mounted electric motor producing 156bhp. It delivers a refined power delivery, ideal for urban navigating and smooth motorway cruising. Efficiency is a strong point, yielding a range of up to 279 miles from a 58kWh battery. When it comes to replenishing the battery, 100kW DC rapid charging allows a 10% to 80% top-up in approximately 30 minutes, while an 11 kW onboard AC charger handles overnight charging effortlessly.
Practicality
Despite the sleek, tapering roofline, passenger space remains competitive for the class, offering decent headroom and legroom for adults in both the front and rear seats. Storage throughout the cabin is well thought out, featuring a deep central cubby and generous door bins. The boot provides a flat, usable loading lip with a capacity of 390 litres, which expands significantly when the rear seats are folded down, making it fully capable of handling weekly shopping trips or holiday luggage.
Buying
Pricing for the premium hatchback starts at £39,295, rising to £41,995 for the top-tier Étoile variant, positioning it directly alongside competitors like the Volvo EX30 and the Kia EV5. Trim levels follow the established line-up, moving from the well-equipped PALLAS+ up to the luxurious Étoile specification. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the PALLAS+ trim, which strikes the ultimate balance of value and luxury by coming standard with an efficiency-increasing heat pump, Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go and keeping the longest available range without reaching the price premium of the absolute top spec.