The DS N°4 II (facelift 2025) 1.6 (225 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid eDCT represents a significant evolution of the DS N°4 crossover, launched in June 2025. Positioned as a premium offering within the DS Automobiles lineup, this variant combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor and a 17.2 kWh battery pack, delivering both enhanced performance and improved fuel efficiency. The N°4 II facelift builds upon the original N°4, refining its styling, interior appointments, and technological features. It competes directly with other premium compact crossovers offering plug-in hybrid powertrains, such as the Volvo XC40 Recharge and the Mercedes-Benz GLA 250e.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DS |
| Model | N°4 |
| Generation | N°4 II (facelift 2025) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (225 Hp) Plug-in Hybrid eDCT |
| Start of production | June, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 6.9 l/100 km (34.1 US mpg, 40.9 UK mpg, 14.5 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 3.0-3.1 l/100 km (78.4 – 75.9 US mpg, 94.2 – 91.1 UK mpg, 33.3 – 32.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 60-61 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 233 km/h (144.78 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC-FCM |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 132.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 212.6 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 17.2 kWh |
| Net (usable) battery capacity | 14.6 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the trunk |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 76-77 km (47.22 – 47.85 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 13.2-13.3 kWh/100 km (21.24 – 21.4 kWh/100 mi, 159 – 157 MPGe, 7.6 – 7.5 km/kWh, 4.7 – 4.7 mi/kWh) |
| Electric motor power | 125 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| Electric motor type | Synchronous |
| System power | 225 Hp |
| System torque | 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5G11 |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1693 kg (3732.43 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2200 kg (4850.17 lbs.) |
| Max load | 507 kg (1117.74 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 360 l (12.71 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1220 l (43.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 40 l (10.57 US gal | 8.8 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Length | 4400 mm (173.23 in.) |
| Width | 1830 mm (72.05 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1866 mm (73.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2061 mm (81.14 in.) |
| Height | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2675 mm (105.31 in.) |
| Front track | 1600 mm (62.99 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1605 mm (63.19 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 800 mm (31.5 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 189 mm (7.44 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive. PHEV. ICE and electric motor drive front wheels. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission eDCT |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/55 R19; 245/40 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the DS N°4 II 1.6 PHEV lies the 5G11 engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is paired with a turbocharger and intercooler to produce 181 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine is coupled with a 125 hp electric motor, positioned between the engine and the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (eDCT). The eDCT provides quick and smooth gear changes, optimizing both performance and efficiency. The combined system output is 225 horsepower and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. The 17.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, located under the trunk floor, provides an all-electric range of 76-77 km (47.22 – 47.85 miles) according to WLTP testing. The battery supports fast charging, allowing for a relatively quick recharge time when connected to a compatible charging station.
Driving Characteristics
The DS N°4 II 1.6 PHEV offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. In electric mode, the vehicle operates silently and provides instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration around town. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is seamless, and the combined power output delivers strong performance for highway merging and overtaking. The eDCT transmission contributes to responsive acceleration and efficient power delivery. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the N°4 II prioritizes comfort and ease of driving. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and provide a smooth ride, and the steering is light and precise. The weight of the battery pack does impact handling slightly, but the overall driving experience is well-balanced and enjoyable.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS N°4 II 1.6 PHEV typically comes well-equipped as standard. Features include a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery is typically a combination of cloth and leather, with options for full leather available. Higher trim levels offer additional features such as a premium sound system, panoramic sunroof, and heated/ventilated front seats. Exterior styling elements, such as unique alloy wheel designs and chrome accents, also differentiate the various trim levels.
Chassis & Braking
The DS N°4 II utilizes a front-wheel-drive layout. The front suspension consists of MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The braking system features ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The steering system is an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS N°4 II 1.6 PHEV has been generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praise its stylish design, comfortable interior, and efficient powertrain. The all-electric range is competitive within its segment, and the combined fuel economy is impressive. Compared to the non-hybrid versions of the N°4, the PHEV variant offers significantly improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. However, some critics note that the price is higher than comparable gasoline-powered models. Compared to rivals like the Volvo XC40 Recharge, the DS N°4 II offers a more luxurious interior and a more refined driving experience, while the Volvo provides slightly more performance.
Legacy
The DS N°4 II 1.6 PHEV represents DS Automobiles’ commitment to electrification and sustainable mobility. The powertrain, while relatively new, is expected to be reliable, benefiting from the established technology of both the gasoline engine and the electric motor components. The long-term durability of the battery pack will be a key factor in the vehicle’s overall reliability. On the used car market, the N°4 II 1.6 PHEV is likely to hold its value well, particularly as demand for plug-in hybrid vehicles continues to grow. Its combination of style, comfort, and efficiency makes it an attractive option for buyers seeking a premium compact crossover.
