There are cars that mark an era. And then there are those that aspire to redefine it. With the DS N°8, the new 100% electric flagship of the French premium brand, DS Automobiles, is a demonstration of style, comfort and technology that sets the bar very high in the high-end D segment.
Born in 2014 as a brand in its own right, DS Automobiles draws its inspiration from a legend: the 1955 Citroën DS, nicknamed "the Goddess". A true UFO in its time, this sedan combined technological innovations, futuristic design and unparalleled comfort. DS is now taking up this heritage with a clear ambition: to embody the French automotive luxury.
Refined materials, bold design, cutting-edge technology, and driving comfort are the pillars of its DNA. In less than a decade, the brand has established itself as the only representative of the French premium, with a presence in more than 40 countries, a network of 450 DS Stores, and vehicles with a unique style, designed to appeal to customers looking for distinction and elegance.
From 2017, Emmanuel Macron made a remarkable entrance on the Champs-Élysées aboard a DS 7 Crossback presidential during his inauguration. The vehicle, specially fitted out for the occasion, featured a sunroof, a specific interior, and a tailor-made finish, reinforcing the image of French know-how and refined modernity.
In its new presentation, DS underlines this role with a version called “DS No. 8 Presidential”, described as a reference vehicle for a reference momentThis confirms the brand's desire to perpetuate this tradition of prestige cars used during major state events, like the original DS which already transported heads of state in the 60s.
DS 8, a strong electric identity
Barely arrived, the DS 8 hits hard: 750 km of autonomy WLTP, more than 500 km on the highway, figures that make some German benchmarks pale in comparison. During our test drive between Aix-en-Provence and the Verdon Gorges, the advertised range proved credible. The energy management algorithm is intelligent, perfectly balancing performance and efficiency.
From the first glance, the DS 8 impresses. This 100% electric SUV coupe looks great. Fluid silhouette, sloping roofline, large stylish rims, and a striking front and rear light signature: no doubt about it, we are in the high endThe style is both bold and elegant, with real personality.
Inside, it's even better. We are welcomed into a ultra-comfortable and refined universe : large screens, massaging seats, Nappa leather, ambient lighting, and even a “DS Neckwarmer” that heats the neck… A real cocoon.
And what a look! This SUV coupe, with its taut lines and perfectly balanced proportions, assumes a bold designThe sharp, almost sculptural front light signature sets the tone. At the rear, the work on the lights evokes jewelry. extended two-tone with 21-inch “Cassiopeia” rims, the style is resolutely high fashion automobile.
An electric car designed for long journeys
La DS N°8 is available in an elegant and modular range, designed to adapt to the tastes and expectations of a premium clientele. Two trim levels are offered: Star, with a strong and technological character, and Pallas, more refined and oriented towards classic elegance.
On the interior side, several ambiances are available. The Star version can be configured with a luxurious Alcantara® Eternal Blue, or even with Nappa leather, proposed in Black Basalt or Chestnut Brown. For Pallas, interiors play on textile sophistication with a DS canvas Eternal Grey-Blue ou Black Basalt, offering a unique and cozy touch.
On the outside, the DS N°8 offers a palette of sober and distinguished shades : Crystal Pearl, Noir Perla Nera, Topaz Blue, White Alabaster et Palladium Gray. The possibility of configuring the car in extended two-tone reinforces its customizable and high-end appearance. To perfect the silhouette, three rim models are available, ranging from 19 inch Borealis Aero to the spectacular 21 inch Cassiopeia Black, going through the 20 inch Lyrae.
Finally, different equipment packs allow you to orient the configuration towards technology or comfort, with offers such as Absolute Tech, Absolute Comfort or, TechComfortThis system of modular variations allows each customer to create a DS N°8 in their own image, combining innovation, refinement and character.
We enter another world. The dashboard, fluid and taut, is dominated by a central screen of 16 inches perfectly integrated. The Silence, for its part, is striking. Thanks to extremely soundproofing (double glazing, sound-absorbing materials right down to the engine), the DS N°8 creates a cocoon. Special mention for the adjustable side cushions, heated steering wheel, DS Neckwarmer (hot breath at the neck): everything is designed for the well-being on board.
Immersive technology and peaceful driving
Major new feature: the audio system HiFi Electra® 3D by Focal with 14 speakers and 690W. By activating the "live 3D" mode, you feel like you're in the middle of a concert. The sound experience is simply amazing.
On the road, the DS Active Scan Suspension reads the road ahead of time to adapt the suspension. The result: supreme road handling, especially in Comfort mode. And when the highway comes, DS DriveAssist 2.0 takes over: active lane keeping, predictive adaptive cruise control, and even semi-automatic lane changing.
A trip in “French Class”
The DS 8 is 100% electric, with an announced autonomy of up to 750 km (and more than 500 km on the highway). During our test in the Joux Valley, we were able to test its comfort, its astonishing silence, and above all its embedded intelligenceThe system reads the road to adapt the suspension, resulting in a smooth and very pleasant, almost floating ride.
It also offers highly advanced semi-autonomous driving, with lane keeping, adaptive cruise control, and automatic lane changing. In other words, it assists you without ever giving the impression of driving for you. A successful balance.
Another favorite: the Focal HiFi Electra® 3D audio system. 14 speakers, immersive sound, deep but never overwhelming bass. It really felt like we were in a concert hall. And that makes all the difference when you're traveling for a long time.
The DS 8 is not trying to be a “techno at all costs” electric car. Rather, it wants to be a large electric road car, capable of traveling far, in peace, comfort, and style. Its panoramic roof, its sound insulation, its noble materials: everything is designed for the well-being on board.
DS does not just make it a vehicle, but a travel experience. This is evidenced by the partnership with the Michelin Guide to Electric Travel, or even the special series Jules Verne – From the Earth to the Moon.
Verdict
The DS 8 is not just a technical achievement. It embodies a French vision of the automobile: refined, silent, electric and elegantIn a segment dominated by the Germans, it imposes a unique, assertive and very desirable signature.
Strong points :
✔ Distinctive and elegant design
✔ High-end comfort and exceptional silence
✔ Credible autonomy, even on the highway
✔ Advanced driver assistance technologies
✔ Unprecedented sound quality
With the DS 8, the DS brand is clearly asserting that electric can rhyme with pleasure, luxury and lifestyle Here françaiseThe DS 8 has succeeded in its gamble by offering a French premium alternative in the electric world, with style, comfort and personality.
Much more than a new electric car. It's an invitation to travel, a demonstration that France can still offer automotive luxury that makes you dream. A car that makes you want to take to the road, and never stop...
Patrick Koune
Photos and test drive
