Zippy, Luxe Coupé-SUV: DS N°8 - A French Masterpiece on the Road
Luxury Glider Journey in France - Initial Voyage on DS No 8
By Patrick Broich, Geneva
DS Automobiles, while a niche player in Germany, ought not to be underestimated based on its limited presence and recognition. The brand's quality offerings have simply been eclipsed by a lack of awareness and a limited dealer network. The brand treads a fine line, catering to a diverse audience - aesthetes, artists, connoisseurs, or just those seeking a more captivating ride than the Volkswagen ID.7.
Enter the DS N°8, a stylish sedan-SUV hybrid that dares to stand out. Its electric heart beats with 400 volts and a whopping 97.2 kWh net battery, delivering a WLTP range of 750 kilometers - impressive to say the least! And despite its capabilities, the N°8 can surpass the Volkswagen's range with 600 kilometers when driving on the hilly, winding sections of the Franco-Swiss Jura region.
DS N°8: Long-Range Master
The impressive range of the DS N°8 remains its crown jewel, yet its charging performance does not quite live up to state-of-the-art expectations given its 400 volt system. Yet, the luxury mid-range segment is still dominated by slower charging even among premium automakers, though the DS team's strategy is undeniably clever.
And once you've taken the wheel, there's no denying the N°8's charm. From the brushed aluminum dashboard to the Nappa leather armchairs with optional neck warmer and the distinctive X-shaped steering wheel, the N°8's refined interior captivates. Though the design has its flaws - the storage compartments in the center console could be more luxurious, and the console itself lacks the premium touch - there are thoughtful details that elevate the experience, such as an extended part of the dashboard serving as a solid aluminum piece to pull the doors shut effortlessly.
Two Rows, Two Worlds of Comfort
Taking the back seat myself, I can attest to ample legroom for taller passengers, thanks to a height of 1.58 meters and a wheelbase of 2.90 meters. The first row grants a level of comfort that's only surpassed by the front passenger seat - quite simply, the finest spot in the house for the 245-horsepower electric car's smooth and girder-like suspension. The rear-wheel drive model propels the 4.82-meter, 2.2-tonne vehicle with a futuristic touch, while the intelligent damping system ensures a gentle ride even over rough cross joints.
Double the power with all-wheel drive, and the thrill only intensifies. The 350-horsepower model takes only 5.4 seconds to hit 100 km/h, an impressive feat that would still be admirable for a sports car.
Pricing starts at 57,700 euros, but for this base model, only 74 kWh of battery capacity is included. The powerful top model, starting at 75,000 euros, delivers smoother driving, but with a slight compromise in efficiency.
The DS N°8 is set to debut in September, and while its visibility on our roads remains uncertain, its striking appearance and emphasis on comfort have already cemented its place in the luxury electric SUV landscape. And with battery cells produced in France and assembly in the Italian town of Melfi, the French brand's dedication to local production is commendable - a point worth noting for those who advocate for domestic industries.
Source: ntv.de
- Electromobility
- Luxury Electrics
- Electric Cars
- Sports Cars
- French Car Manufacturers
- Polestar 2 and 4
- Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron
- Tesla Model Y
- BMW iX2
- Cupra Tavascan
[1] Enrichment Data: Lifestyle trends indicate growing interest in eco-conscious, luxury car options, making the DS N°8 an attractive choice for environmentally-conscious consumers seeking premium driving experiences. Given its impressive range and sleek design, the N°8 serves as a strong competitor in this emerging market.
- The impressive range of the DS N°8, combined with its stylish design, positions it as an attractive choice for consumers seeking eco-conscious, luxury electric vehicles in the market.
- The refined interior of the DS N°8, featuring elements like brushed aluminum dashboard, Nappa leather armchairs, and an X-shaped steering wheel, offers a captivating lifestyle experience for its drivers.
- The DS N°8's futuristic touch, displayed in its smooth suspension and powerful electric motor options, makes it a strong competitor in the emerging market of luxury electric sports cars.
