The premium spin-off brand from Citroen, DS Automobiles, has just launched the brand new and overtly stylish DS 4. It looks more like a compact crossover than a hatch, but compared to the old DS 4 this new generation is the difference between night and day. The vehicle shares a platform with Peugeot Citroen and Vauxhall, the so-called EMP2 Platform which cost $1bn to develop and will eventually be used by future Fiat cars. The DS 4 is hoping to take a chunk out of Mercedes GLA and BMW X2 sales and on style alone I say take my money now.

The DS 4 is deliberately designed and aimed at the coupe-SUV hatch crossover crowd. It includes a proprietary active suspension system, where AI technology continuously monitors the road ahead and adjusts the suspension by using an on-board camera. Level 2 driving assistance is also offered and Matrix LED headlights are just a few of the premium technologies on the options checklist. DS 4 will be offered with petrol and diesel engines ranging from 130PS up to 225PS in terms of power outputs.

The new car will also be available with a new 222bhp plugin-hybrid which will use a 178bhp 1.6-litre petrol engine combined with a 108bhp electric motor and 12.4kWh battery. The DS 4 will only be paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. The interior is equally as stylish as the exterior and the de-cluttered design is fully digitally enabled.

The all new DS 4 is scheduled to go on sale across Europe at the end of the year, prices will be revealed at the next DS Automobiles press release.