The DS 9 1.6 PureTech (360 Hp) E-TENSE 4×4 EAT8 is a plug-in hybrid executive sedan produced by the French manufacturer DS Automobiles, beginning in November 2020. Representing the flagship model for the DS brand, the DS 9 aims to compete with established German luxury sedans like the Audi A6 and BMW 5 Series. This particular variant, combining a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric powertrain and all-wheel drive, positions itself as a high-performance, technologically advanced offering within the DS 9 lineup. It’s built on the EMP2 platform, shared with other PSA Group (now Stellantis) vehicles like the Peugeot 508 and Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, but significantly upgraded in terms of refinement and features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DS |
| Model | 9 |
| Generation | 9 |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 PureTech (360 Hp) E-TENSE 4×4 EAT8 |
| Start of production | November, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.8 l/100 km (130.7 US mpg, 156.9 UK mpg, 55.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 41 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.3 kg/Hp, 188.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.7 kg/Nm, 272.4 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 11.9 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 51 km (31.69 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 15.5 kWh/100 km (24.94 kWh/100 mi, 135 MPGe, 6.5 km/kWh, 4 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Electric motor power (1) | 110 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (1) | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (1) | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor power (2) | 113 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque (2) | 166 Nm (122.44 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location (2) | Rear axle, Transverse |
| System power | 360 Hp |
| System torque | 520 Nm (383.53 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 6000 rpm (125.2 Hp/l) |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | DGS EP6FADTXHPR |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1909 kg (4208.62 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2395 kg (5280.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 486 kg (1071.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 42 l (11.1 US gal | 9.24 UK gal) |
| Length | 4934 mm (194.25 in.) |
| Width | 1855 mm (73.03 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1932 mm (76.06 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2079 mm (81.85 in.) |
| Height | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2895 mm (113.98 in.) |
| Front track | 1584 mm (62.36 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1566 mm (61.65 in.) |
| Front overhang | 973 mm (38.31 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1066 mm (41.97 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11 m (36.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels, electric motors drive front and rear wheels. |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission EAT |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 380×32 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 290×12 mm |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the DS 9 E-TENSE 4×4 lies a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated EP6FADTXHPR. This engine, part of the PureTech family developed by the PSA Group, produces 200 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. It features direct fuel injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger for improved responsiveness. The engine is paired with two electric motors – one 110 hp motor integrated with the front axle and another 113 hp motor driving the rear axle. These motors draw power from an 11.9 kWh lithium-ion battery pack located under the rear seats. The combined system output is a substantial 360 horsepower and 520 Nm (383 lb-ft) of torque. The EAT8 (Efficient Automatic Transmission 8) is an eight-speed automatic gearbox specifically tuned to work seamlessly with the hybrid powertrain, offering smooth shifts and optimized efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The DS 9 1.6 PureTech E-TENSE 4×4 delivers a refined and powerful driving experience. The instant torque from the electric motors provides brisk acceleration, with a 0-60 mph time of around 5.3 seconds. In electric mode, the car offers a quiet and smooth ride, suitable for urban commuting. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally seamless. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. Compared to lower-powered DS 9 variants, this model offers significantly enhanced performance. While the EAT8 transmission is generally responsive, some reviewers have noted that it can occasionally feel hesitant during downshifts. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling, though it remains composed in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 9 1.6 PureTech E-TENSE 4×4 typically comes well-equipped as a flagship model. Standard features often include leather upholstery, a panoramic sunroof, a premium sound system, a head-up display, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. The interior boasts a high level of craftsmanship with attention to detail. Optional extras could include massaging seats, a more powerful audio system, and unique exterior styling elements. The dashboard features a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 9 utilizes an independent suspension setup at both the front and rear. The front employs a McPherson strut design with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, while the rear features a multi-link setup with a stabilizer bar. This configuration aims to balance comfort and handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front (380x32mm) and solid discs at the rear (290x12mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and emergency brake assist. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 9 1.6 PureTech E-TENSE 4×4 has received mixed reviews. Critics generally praise its luxurious interior, comfortable ride, and strong performance. However, some have criticized its infotainment system for being complex and occasionally laggy. Fuel economy is a strong point, with the plug-in hybrid powertrain achieving impressive figures in real-world driving. Compared to other DS 9 trims, this variant offers a significant performance upgrade, but also comes at a higher price point. Against its German rivals, the DS 9 aims to offer a more distinctive and luxurious alternative, though it may not match their brand recognition or established reputation.
Legacy
The DS 9 E-TENSE 4×4 represents DS Automobiles’ ambition to establish itself as a premium automotive brand. While long-term reliability data is still emerging, the PureTech engine has generally proven to be durable, although some earlier versions experienced issues with timing chain wear. The hybrid powertrain components are expected to have a long lifespan, but regular maintenance is crucial. On the used car market, the DS 9 E-TENSE 4×4 is likely to appeal to buyers seeking a stylish, comfortable, and technologically advanced executive sedan with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
