The DS N°8 (aka DS8) is DS Automobiles’ first-ever fully electric flagship—a bold, fastback crossover that aims to challenge premium EVs. Here's a deeper dive into what reviewers and owners are saying:
The DS N°8 delivers on innovation, luxury, and efficiency, making it arguably the most refined French EV to date. Its sophisticated design, high-end materials, and extended WLTP range point to true French savoir-faire. Yet, real-world performance, reliability, pricing vs. German rivals, and long-term owner satisfaction remain open questions.
If you value French luxury, bold aesthetics, and comfort over outright speed or mass-market recognition, it's a compelling choice. But if the best modern French car means beating EV benchmarks in every category, a bit more data and post-release reviews will be needed.
Summary Comparison
Bottom line: The DS N°8 stakes a serious claim as the most luxurious and uniquely French modern EV. It’s less about best-in-class speed and more about delivering an opulent, serene EV experience with character.
Performance & Range
- Powertrains: Available in three trims:
- 230 hp FWD with 74 kWh battery (~572 km WLTP claims)
- 245 hp FWD or 350 hp AWD with 97.2 kWh battery (~750 km and ~686 km WLTP, respectively)
- Acceleration: AWD hits 0–100 km/h in ~5.4 s; single motor ~7.7–7.8 s .
- Efficiency: Excellent aerodynamics (Cd 0.24) and cabin heating innovations like neck-warmers contribute to a real-world highway range of 500+ km
- Charging: DC charging up to 160–200 kW; 20–80% in ~27 minutes; an AC charger option at 11 or 22 kW
Design & Interior
- Exterior: Striking, duotone “SUV‑coupé” silhouette with 21″ wheels, vertical LED Lightblade elements, and an illuminated grille. Design draws from Aero Sport Lounge concept
- Luxury Cabin: Nappa leather, brushed aluminum, Alcantara, 16″ panoramic touchscreen, and bold four-spoke steering wheel
- Comfort Tech: Heated/ventilated/massaging front and rear seats, neck warmers, Focal Electra 3D 690 W sound system, and Active Scan Suspension scanning the road ahead
Driving Experience & Tech
- Ride Feel: Courtesy of DS Active Scan Suspension, ride comfort is exceptional on smooth roads. Some testers noted it "precise road‑holding when cornering"
- Assisted Driving & Safety: DS Drive Assist 2.0 enables Level 2 semi-autonomy (up to ~140 km/h), plus night vision and full ADAS suite
Pricing & Appeal
- Estimated Price: UK €60–75 k; higher trims may climb to €85 k+
- Market Positioning: A refined challenger to BMW i4, Polestar 4, Audi Q6 e‑tron—offers standout design and craftsmanship—but some find it pricey relative to performance electrifying.com.
Verdict: Best Modern French Car?
The DS N°8 delivers on innovation, luxury, and efficiency, making it arguably the most refined French EV to date. Its sophisticated design, high-end materials, and extended WLTP range point to true French savoir-faire. Yet, real-world performance, reliability, pricing vs. German rivals, and long-term owner satisfaction remain open questions.
If you value French luxury, bold aesthetics, and comfort over outright speed or mass-market recognition, it's a compelling choice. But if the best modern French car means beating EV benchmarks in every category, a bit more data and post-release reviews will be needed.
Summary Comparison
| Aspect | Strengths | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Range & Efficiency | Excellent WLTP and real-world range | WLTP can be optimistic |
| Comfort & Cabin Quality | Top-tier materials, ride comfort | Price is premium |
| Design | Highly distinctive | Style may not suit all |
| Technology | Packed with high-end features | Complexity may affect reliability |