DS Automobiles has revealed its brand-new DS 4 premium hatchback, due November 2021 and rivalling the Audi A3 and BMW 1 Series.

The DS 4 is the fourth model to be offered in the standalone DS line-up

It’s the fourth model to be offered in the standalone DS line-up, alongside the DS 7 Crossback and DS 3 Crossback SUVs and the DS 9 premium saloon due later this year, and will be offered in a range of powertrains including an E-Tense Plug-in Hybrid.

Revealed just weeks after the merger of PSA and FCA completed, creating a new parent firm dubbed Stellantis, the DS 4 is the first DS Automobiles model to be built on a new version of the EMP2 platform, already used for models such as the Peugeot 3008. It measures 1.83m wide, 4.4m long and 1.47m high; slightly narrower and lower than a 1 Series. Boot space stands at 430 litres with hands-free opening and a powered tailgate.

The new premium hatch is inspired by the DS Aero Sport Lounge concept and the brand says the DS 4 is aimed at customers drawn to the new coupé-SUV bodystyle and the traditional compact hatchback.

It will be available in three distinct variants: DS 4, DS 4 Cross and DS 4 Performance Line. The DS 4 is the core model and focused on elegance, the Cross gets SUV-inspired features and the option of Advanced Traction Control while the Performance Line, as denoted by the name, gets more sporty features including black exterior detailing and alloys and a bespoke interior, including Alcantara.

Powertrains will include a 225hp E-Tense plug-in hybrid. This teams up a 180hp four-cylinder turbo petrol with 110hp electric motor and an e-EAT gearbox, with an all-electric range of over 50km (30 miles).

Other engines include PureTech 130, 180 and 225hp petrols and a 130hp diesel BlueHDi version; all with the same eight-speed automatic gearbox.

Onboard technologies include a new extended head-up display, said to mark a first step towards augmented reality and projecting info such as speed and safety warnings but also details on the current music track playing or phone call being taken. It’s part of a re-imagined 10-inch infotainment screen that also includes smart touch gesture controls – which enable the driver to access essential functions on the centre console via hand gestures.

The DS 4 also offers the option of the DS brand’s active scan suspension, already seen in the DS 7 Crossback and using a camera to scan road surfaces and adapt suspension accordingly.

Advanced driver assistance features include DS Drive Assist 2.0 active cruise control, which adapts speed and can restart in traffic jams. It also includes semi-automatic overtaking, speed adjustment for corners and anticipated speed recommendations from signposts.

The DS 4 also includes the brand’s Night Vision tech, which makes the road and its hazards more visible and the latest DS light signature, including a new version of the DS Matrix LED Vision headlights.