The upcoming French flagship model will use STLA Medium architecture and have a range of 435 miles
- The DS8 will be launched later this year as the brand’s flagship model.
- Our spy photographers recently captured a prototype with an exposed front end.
- This model is built on the STLA Medium platform and is equipped with a dual-motor electric powertrain.
The folks at DS Automobiles at Stellantis seem to have done a poor job of disguising the prototype. Take the upcoming flagship DS8, for example, which was recently spotted with its front end exposed, giving us a (perhaps unintentional) glimpse of the future.
The front of the DS8 is extremely aggressive, with slim LED headlights and chiseled daytime running lights integrated into the front bumper. While the large grille is mostly covered, black trim connects it to the lower bumper air intakes. Other notable design elements include flush door handles, charging ports on the rear fenders, and angular LED taillights that blend effortlessly into the mix.
More: DS commemorates 10th anniversary and pays tribute to SM concept
According to our spy photographers (who apparently did a field trip on this one), the exposed front bumper could be the result of previous damage. Maybe they ran out of tape? Or, more likely, DS just couldn’t be bothered to disguise the whole thing for these late development tests. After all, who cares about keeping it a secret as the official debut approaches?
Overall, the production model’s styling is noticeably toned down compared to the 2020 DS Aero Sport Lounge concept. Additionally, the five-spoke wheels on this particular prototype appear to be undersized for the body, suggesting it could be an entry-level trim.
SH professionals
Early spy photos reveal the interior of the DS8, showing a four-spoke steering wheel, a high-tech center console and a blue premium interior. DS promises that the new model will offer “extraordinary technology and refinement” thanks to Stellantis’ parts bin.
The DS8 will adopt a crossover-style fastback body style, somewhat reminiscent of the Peugeot 408 and Citroën C5 X. However, although these models are based on the EMP2 platform, the DS8 will be built on the newer STLA Medium architecture and be powered by an all-electric engine. transmission system. Stellantis previously confirmed that the 98 kWh battery will have a WLTP range of more than 435 miles (700 kilometers).
More: Electric Peugeot E-408 is a stylish French fastback with a disappointing 282-mile range
DS has promised to launch only electric cars from 2024, but given the current challenging market conditions, we can’t help but wonder if they will reconsider their strategy for the DS8. After all, the STLA platform is versatile, supporting mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid setups – something we’ve already seen on the Peugeot 3008/5008 and Opel Grandland, which share its underpinnings.
The new DS8 is expected to be launched in late 2024 or early 2025, replacing the DS9 and joining the DS3, DS4 and DS7 series. DS Automobiles has confirmed that they will reveal the SM Tribute concept car at the 2024 Paris Motor Show. Can the mass-produced DS8 make a surprise appearance together with it? This is possible but not confirmed yet.
Leave a Reply Cancel reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.