Sedans are still a big deal in China, and an upstart luxury brand like PSA’s DS Automobiles cannot afford
to miss opportunities in the world’s largest car market. Earlier this year we brought you
two images that revealed the design of the upcoming DS 8 premium fastback sedan
and now we can show you the first spy shots of the new model taken in Europe. Spied undergoing hot weather
testing in southern Spain, the DS 8 is fully wrapped in camouflage, yet does
not seem to feature any padding to disguise its shape. This means we’re dealing
with the final production bodywork, and the same goes for the finalized
headlights and taillights.
Furthermore, the design of the lights and the
hexagonal shape of the grille are consistent with the images that came from
China earlier this year. While there’s little doubt regarding this model’s
identity, we can only make assumptions regarding its presence in Europe. DS Automobiles has not confirmed
yet that the flagship sedan will be offered in Europe, but the fact that
testing takes place in the region suggests the DS 8 will become available for
European customers following its debut in China.
The DS 8 is built on PSA’s EMP2 platform that also
underpins the Peugeot 508 — including the 508 L long-wheelbase version.
Speaking of the 508 L, the DS 8 is expected to share the same 2,848 mm wheelbase with the China-only model, offering generous legroom and knee room
for rear passengers.
DS’ flagship sedan will therefore measure around 4.9
meters in length, making it similar to other long-wheelbase
premium sedans sold in China by European carmakers: the Audi A4 L, BMW 3 Series
Li, Jaguar XE L, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class L. This means the DS 8 will not go
against executive saloons such as the Audi A6 L, BMW 5 Series Li, Jaguar XF L,
and the Mercedes-Benz E-Class L.
The DS 8 will first launch in China (where it will
also be built) later this year, with a likely European debut expected in 2020.
European-spec models should offer a range of gasoline and diesel engines, as
well as a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
