South Africans already know Citroën's DS3 and DS4... but now the larger DS5 has joined the range.

"Citroëns are known to be innovative, stylish cars and the reintroduction of the DS nomenclature symbolises the brand's ability to continuously push back the limits of the automotive experience," said Citroën South Africa MD Didier Gerard.

"DS Line cars feature an inspired and unique styling, with strong bold and creative convictions. Recently we have used the DS magic in the small and medium categories. Now we move up to the large premium segment with the DS5."

Citroën sees the DS5 as a new take on the premium segment by combining a spacious interior with compact external dimensions.

The DS5 range consists of three engine variants: two turbocharged petrol engines and a Euro V-compliant diesel. The THP 155 petrol turbo (114kW and 240Nm) and HDi 160 diesels (120kW and 340Nm) are mated to a six-speed automatic transmission, while the high output THP 200 (147kW and 275Nm) is mated to the six-speed manual gearbox.
 
The range is then divided into two Style variants (THP 155 automatic and THP 200 manual) and two Sport derivatives (THP 200 manual and HDi 160 automatic).

The front end identifies the DS5 as a member of the growing DS family with an oversized air intake, a wide, chrome-plated grille housing the chevron badge and LED daytime running lights. Light is reflected by a thin chromed beading running from the tip of the headlamps to the front windows.
 
The car sits squarely on a wide track with 18-inch diamond-effect wheels. Twin exhaust pipes are integrated into the bumper, with the rear view highlighted by a signature of six LED lights.
 
The DS5 is available in seven body colours and the chrome work also comes in a smoked version called Dark Chrome (optional on the Sport model with certain exterior colour options only).

Citroën says that the roof is signature item, incorporating a new interpretation of the sunroof. It is divided into three wells of light, each one of which can be covered individually to suit the occupants.

The DS5 measures 4.5m in length (25cm shorter than a C5 saloon), 1.85m wide and 1.5m high. The luggage compartment can hold 468 litres.

Customers seeking to make their DS5 more distinctive can specify the Club pack (although it'll cost them R14 000), which consists of Club leather upholstery, a Hi-Fi audio Denon system, lane departure warning system and automatic high beam assist. Further to this, all models can be specified with optional 19-inch alloy wheels.
 
All DS5s are covered by a three-year or 100 000km warranty and a five-year or 100 000km service plan.

Pricing:
 
THP 155 Automatic Style: R344 900
THP 200 Manual Style: R374 900
THP 200 Manual Sport: R395 900
HDi 160 Sport: R399 900