Motors
DS Automobiles split range into two distinctive models
By Gerry Murphy
Last year the IM Group took over the distribution of Citroen and DS cars in Ireland at a time when the French car maker decided to divide the two brands. DS Automobiles is the fancy brand of the two, with an emphasis on premium cars, while the Citroen name will continue to promote the more traditional lines.
Now the DS4 joins the smaller DS3 and the flagship model DS5 in the range. They have split this car into two distinctive models, the DS4 and the DS4 Crossback. It is positioned as a rival for the Audi A3, the Alfa Giulietta and the BMW 1 Series among others with a similar price point that starts at €26,995 for the DS4 petrol and €30,495 for the entry level Crossback. Diesel versions start at €28,995 for the DS4 and €30,495 for the Crossback.
DS 4 is a dynamic and elegant five-door hatchback for customers seeking sleek styling and driving pleasure, whilst the New DS 4 Crossback – a new version in the range – is a car with ‘go-anywhere’ looks and a higher driving position.
With this twofold attack, DS Automobiles say that they are addressing the expectations of customers in the premium compact vehicle segment. DS 4 is a refined premium hatchback and DS 4 Crossback takes the form of a stylish adventurer thanks to its 30mm higher ride height, specific features and styling.
DS 4 is launched in Ireland with four engines emitting between 100 and 120g/km of CO2. One PureTech and three BlueHDi power units are available in the full range. New DS 4 Crossback launches with a choice of two engines: one petrol PureTech 130 S&S 6-speed manual and one diesel, a BlueHDi 120 S&S, with either a 6-speed manual or an EAT6 auto transmission. Overall, engine outputs range from 120hp to 180hp, with torque of between 230Nm and 400Nm.
On a brief drive in Wicklow this week, it is clear that DS Automobiles have a really unique car in it line-up. Full of gadgets that you would expect from a premium car, the ambience in the cabin reflects the traditions of the brand and while it has some drawbacks, the target market will be tickled by what it offers. DS 4 also gains a major new feature as the first DS – and the first vehicle in the PSA Group – to offer Apple CarPlay.
Space is adequate and feels better for the inclusion of their panoramic windscreen which floods the cabin with addition light. One strange feature though is the rear doors having fixed windows, which is a drawback for rear seat passengers.
A key characteristic of today’s DS models is personalisation. Initiated on DS 3 in 2010, New DS 4 introduces a two-tone offering with a choice of four colours for the roof and rear spoiler, the door mirrors and hub caps. The optional Perla Nera Black, Whisper Purple, Virtual Blue or Tourmaline Orange finish on the roof mean that up to 38 colour combinations are possible.
There are nine body colours, including three new colours: tourmaline orange, artense grey and platinum grey. This ‘bi-tone’ option is unique in the premium compact segment and allows customers to adapt their car to their personality and lifestyle.
Recent registration figures released at the end of last month show that the Volkswagen’s ID.4 is the best-selling electric car in Ireland. Since it arrived in 2021 there has been nearly 6,000 registered and it now leads the charge to electrification here making it officially Ireland’s number one electric EV.
Even more exciting for the brand is the arrival of their new ID.7, the brand’s first global electric model for the upper mid-size class. It was launched globally last month, and Volkswagen chiefs are promising a battery range of 700km. This is massive step up for Volkswagen and will be a game changer for the brand.
Volkswagen Ireland are saying that it will arrive here later this year, and prices will be announced closer to that Irish launch date.
“With the ID.7 we are taking the next step in our electric offensive,” said Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars.
“The saloon offers a high level of comfort and long ranges. Already by 2026, we will offer the widest electric range of all manufacturers in Europe. Our goal is to achieve an electric car share of 80% in Europe by 2030. As from 2033, Volkswagen will produce only electric vehicles in Europe.”
Galway Volkswagen dealers, Western Motors are holding an electric vehicles information event on Thursday May 25 where they will have information on hand for potential buyers of any of the Volkswagen EV range.
The Western Motors sales team and service team will be able to provide information on along with additional information on the grants available and application for same and electrician to talk about the EV Charging Boxes and so forth.
For more information, call Western Motors on (091) 709970.
Following the success of the Hyundai IONIQ 5, we now have the IONIQ 6, a completely different kettle of fish with the same running gear but a completely different design.
Both have been lauded at world level as the IONIQ 6 follows the 5 by winning the 2023 World Car of the Year title.
Not only did it pick up this gong, but it also won the 2023 World Electric Vehicle as well as the 2023 World Car Design of the Year awards.
This is the second consecutive triple win for the Hyundai Motor Group – the Hyundai IONIQ 5 was last year’s winner in the same three categories. A jury of 100 international automotive journalists from 32 countries selected the winners by secret ballot based on their evaluation of each eligible vehicle as part of their on-going professional work.
Up to now, the majority of electric vehicles have been SUVs. It’s the most popular shape of our times as buyers go for taller features and practical family characteristics. It might be strange that Hyundai would bring out the IONIQ 6 which is more like a coupe styled sedan with a lower, striking silhouette that they describe as a ‘streamliner’.
It certainly looks pretty special and while it uses the same battery, motors and platform. There are indications however that it is somewhat offers better range than the IONIQ 5. It is lower to the ground and has a lower drag co efficiency meaning reduced resistance and hence, better distance from a charge.
Under WLPT measurement the car has been tested to return 614km on a full charge. And, it can be charged at a much faster speed than other cars on the market; 315km in just 15 minutes.
There’s also a host of clever technology on board. Of course, a lot of what’s on offer these day are just toys and are not needed for everyday driving but, it is what the customer wants and he/she is always right! You can even opt to have the door mirrors on screens inside the car with cameras outside taking the pictures.
Prices for the Signature version with a 53kW battery starts at €48,295 rising toe €71,250 for the top-of-the-range Finesse all-wheel drive model with a 77kW battery.
By Gerry Murphy
There is always a flutter of expectancy when a car company like Alfa Romeo brings out a completely new car. Since the heady days of the Alfa 156, the fortunes of the manufacturer have been slowly eroding and they now need their new Tonale to be loved more than ever.
Launched a couple of weeks ago, the Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 is truly a landmark for the Italian brand. In what they call the Alfa Romeo’s “zero to zero” process, which will take it from being a 0% electrified brand at the start of 2022 to being a zero-emissions, 100% electric brand by 2027 it will start off a complete conversion in just five years.
Indeed Alfa Romeo has positioned itself to be one of the fastest automotive brands to reach carbon neutrality.
Alfa bosses tell us that the Tonale Plug-In Hybrid Q4 combines maximum efficiency and Italian sportiness; the all-electric range (AER) is 56km, up to 80km all-electric range city, 600km in the total cycle and emissions reduced from 29g/km.
I have had the pleasure of taking the new Tonale for an extended test drive on the day of its official launch recently. The best compliment that I can give the car is that it is a ‘proper’ Alfa. Those who have history with the brand will fully understand what that means and why it is important that it lives up to its heritage.
The interior especially wraps itself around the driver just as in the days of old. It is a wonderful place to be, and you are completely at one with the vehicle. The quality is right up the in the premier league; dark and moody with clever details and the right amount of new technology.
For more, read this week’s Connacht Tribune.
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