Well, it seems yes. The DS3, the first of several models to be produced in the halo of the French carmaker's 1950s icon to advanced automotive technology, has reached the 100,000 mark in sales across Europe.
Since launch, one DS3 has been sold for every three of the C3 supermini on which it is based. That's a vindication figure on its own. OK, in Ireland the equivalent number has been closer to one DS3 for every nine C3s, but we're a different, and much smaller market. That said, it is likely that each DS3 buyer has been attracted from another niche model, maybe a Mini or a Fiat 500 or an Audi A1, and each is therefore very worthwhile as a conquest.
Now, on the European stage, Citroen is hoping to do something similar with the DS4, based on the same platform as the C4 compact hatch which was launched late last year in a much improved new generation.
We drove it recently outside London, prior to the official launch in these islands on July 4. And found there are subtle—and some not so—differences from the standard C4 that make this one a credible rival to such as the Alfa Giulietta, VW's Scirocco, and Audi's A3 Sportback. These are the targets.
So too are Nissan's Qashqai crossover in 5-seat guise, which you might find odd, and the Mini Countryman. But that's because the DS4 shares with these a highish driving position.
Let's get the basics clear. The DS4's platform and running gear are tried, tested, and very competent. A solid sense of build quality. A more than adequate set of ride and handling characteristics. Engines and transmissions which are of star quality in the mass market. If you have driven any combination of these in the latest C4 you know exactly what I mean.
The DS4 adds to the offer some more sporty detailing, with significant differences in styling elements including a stronger presence front and rear. There's a promise of power in the strong wheel arches, especially the character line in the metal over the back ones. The look of a coupe is encouraged by the hidden rear door handles a la various Alfa models. But there's no actual compromise in rear passenger space. From the back, it is strong and sexy. The distinctive DS logo is my current favourite automotive graphic.
Inside, as in the DS3, there is a perceptible sense of upgrade. It depends, of course, on the specification chosen—but all will be an enhancement over the already decently presented C4. A well-crafted one piece dashboard has personality. The unambiguous instruments come with my favourite blue ambience. There's a real individual style about the centre stack audio and climate controls, but without hindering comprehension.
The panoramic windscreen which we first saw in the C4 Picasso and later in the C3 has also made an appearance in the DS4. I've never been sure of this—plane-spotting or bird-watching on the move is not conducive to safe driving.
In the launch cars we had leather wherever it should be, but even the basic one will have half-leather seats. The gear shifter lifts above the basic knob in these things. There are options such as a 'massaging' seat that might not be a luxury for someone doing regular long-distance driving.
If a family is doing that, there's a double-decker boot to handle the necessary luggage.
On the launch trip, we drove 160hp 2.0 diesel and 200hp 1.6 turbocharged petrol versions, that latter developed in conjunction with BMW.
Both provided a real good mix of comfort and engagement, on a variety of town and country roads. The top-end 19-inch alloys made going a little on the hard side in ride terms off the motorways, but these will be minority choice over here.
The key engine in Ireland will be the 1.6 110hp diesel, already a proven winner in the Citroen and Peugeot lineups. With 6-speed manual or automated transmissions, these will be the most popular sellers here, in the mid-range DStyle grade. The lower grade is DSign, the one above is DSport. CO2 tax levels across the engines range are A-C.
Citroen Ireland expect only 5 percent of buyers will go for the petrol option.
The price range is €23,995-€29,895, on the road. Just for comparison, the premium over an equivalent-specification C4 at the expected most popular level will be less than €1,000.
That alone should encourage extra interest. More when we get to drive the car here at home.
