A premium SUV inspired by Citroën's Wild Rubis concept, and called the DS 6WR, has been unveiled at the Beijing motor show.
The new DS 6WR, the latest model to be revealed under PSA’s new premium DS brand, promises a combination of “SUV versatility with DS sophistication and refinement”.
The DS 6WR will be introduced to the Chinese market by the end of the year, and although not confirmed for Europe, Citroen boss Frederic Banzet said that it was being considered – although there are fears it would clash with the upcoming Cactus.
Power for the DS brand's first SUV comes from a choice of 1.6-litre four-cylinder engines producing 160 or 200bhp, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
The new SUV represents the next step for the fledgling stand-alone premium brand. Earlier this week, PSA boss Carlos Tavares said DS would be positioned apart from both Peugeot and Citroën. DS has enjoyed success in China, although expansion into other markets is likely.
It measures 4550mm long, 1860mm wide and 1610mm tall, making it slightly longer, wider but lower than the Peugeot 5008.
Features include Grip Control, which claims to optimise the available traction for the two-wheel-drive model in poor conditions, avoiding the necessity for a four-wheel drive set-up.
The SUV is equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels, a range of chrome trims and daytime running lights which are arranged in a tuning fork layout. DS logos are embossed into the side of each light cluster.
Another locally built model is planned to be unveiled in the coming months to join the DS 6WR. DS launched the DS5 in September, and the DS 5LS in March, and the brand promises an expanding network of dealers in China’s biggest cities.
