Citroen DS5 2017 Review

In recent years, the competition in Malaysia's D-Segment market has become increasingly intense. Consumers not only pursue practicality in terms of space but also have higher demands for luxurious configurations. Launched in 2017, the Citroen DS5 1.6 THP 156 enters the market with its unique design language and a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty. This review will provide a comprehensive analysis from static details to dynamic performance, to determine whether it meets the needs of modern family users.

Starting with the exterior design, the DS5 adopts a futuristic overall style. The front features Citroen's family-style chrome grille, paired with sharp xenon headlights on both sides, giving it high recognition. The body lines are smooth, with the waistline extending from the front fender to the rear, enhancing the three-dimensional impression. The 17-inch wheel design adds a sporty touch. At the rear, the LED taillights use a surround design, creating a striking effect when lit. The chrome trim on the lower rear bumper adds a sense of refinement. The overall exterior design is relatively unique within the same class and is likely to attract the attention of younger consumers.

Inside the car, the material quality of the interior is commendable. The dashboard is covered with large areas of soft-touch materials, paired with chrome trim and piano black panels to create a certain level of luxury ambiance. The multifunction steering wheel feels comfortable to hold, with the left buttons controlling the audio and Bluetooth phone, while the right buttons manage the trip computer and cruise control system. One highlight is the HUD heads-up digital display, which can show information such as speed and navigation, improving driving convenience. The center console is equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen, which has a fairly standard response time and supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The front seats are electrically adjustable, featuring memory functions and lumbar support for sustained comfort on long drives. The rear seats can be folded in a 4/6 split, further extending the storage space.

In terms of space, the DS5's dimensions are 4530mm×1871mm×1538mm, with a wheelbase of 2727mm. Both the front and rear seats provide ample space, with about two fists worth of legroom available for a 175cm tall passenger in the rear seat. The storage capacity is also satisfactory, as the front door pockets can hold two bottles of water, the center armrest console offers moderate space, and the trunk has a standard capacity of 468L, which can be expanded to 1195L when the rear seats are folded down. This is sufficient to meet the daily needs of a family or for long-distance trips. Additionally, the rear seats are equipped with independent air conditioning vents and power outlets, enhancing passenger comfort in the back.

As for performance, the DS5 is equipped with a 1.6THP turbocharged engine, delivering a maximum power output of 158PS and maximum torque of 240N·m, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. In actual driving, the power response during startup is quick, acceleration is smooth, and the transmission shift logic is clear. When the accelerator is pressed hard, a noticeable sense of thrust can be felt. The official 0-100km/h acceleration time is 9.6 seconds, and the top speed is 202km/h. The power performance meets the needs of daily commuting and highway driving. As for fuel consumption, the actual fuel consumption measured under mixed road conditions is 7.8L/100km, which is slightly higher than the official figure of 7.3L/100km but is still within a reasonable range compared to other models in the same class.

The DS5's handling and chassis performance feature a front MacPherson independent suspension and a rear torsion beam non-independent suspension, tuned for comfort. When dealing with bumpy roads, the suspension effectively absorbs vibrations, providing good ride comfort; when cornering, the body roll is kept within a reasonable range, the steering wheel is precise, and the overall driving experience is stable. The braking performance is excellent, with a 100km/h-0 braking distance of 38.5 meters. Even after multiple tests, the braking performance remained stable without significant heat fade.

In terms of ride comfort, the DS5 demonstrates good noise control, with minimal wind and tire noise during high-speed driving, maintaining a quiet cabin. The seats offer good support and cushioning, reducing driver fatigue during long journeys. Additionally, features such as rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlights enhance everyday usability.

In summary, the core strengths of the DS5 lie in its avant-garde exterior design, rich features, and comfortable driving experience. Compared to its counterparts in the same segment, its 5-year unlimited mileage warranty policy and features such as the HUD head-up display and electric seats offer a certain level of competitiveness. Its overall performance is balanced, making it suitable for family users who value cost-effectiveness and comfort, especially those who prefer unique designs and rich configurations. However, the DS5's brand influence in the Malaysian market is relatively weak, and its maintenance convenience may not match that of Japanese or German brands. Overall, the DS5 is a well-rounded model worth considering for families.