Take a look at the new Citroen DS4 Crossback

Take a look at the new Citroen DS4 Crossback

The Citroen DS4 Crossback is an extension of the popular DS range, and offers a higher ride height and more bullish looks in comparison with the standard car.

Marketed as an 'urban-off roader', the DS4 Crossback is intended as a rival to existing crossovers. Customers who would like a loftier ride-height but without compromised on-road handling characteristics are increasingly being brought into the crossover market, and this is DS's response.

Four engines are on offer  two petrol engines, mated to a six-speed manual transmission, and two diesels with automatic gearboxes. The car we drove was equipped with the BlueHDi diesel and, as mentioned, was driven by a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Thanks to the generous 400Nm of torque, the Crossback feels punchy throughout the rev range, and doesn't feel breathless at normal speeds.

Inside, the Crossback boasts a 7-inch touchscreen, along with Bluetooth handsfree and media streaming. Also equipped is satellite navigation with both traffic information and also European mapping. Half cloth and leather trim is standard, however a full-leather interior is available, complete with heated seats.

With regards to exterior styling, DS has tried to make the Crossback look as dramatic as possible, including LED 'Vision' Xenon headlamps complete with LED daytime running lights. It also features electric folding door mirrors, kerb lighting, automatic lights and windscreen wipers and an auto-dimming electrochrome rear view mirror.

Dynamically, corners are dealt with minimal fuss, and the steering wheel transmits a pleasing amount of feel back to the driver.

The Crossback proves an enticing proposition. Although the concept has already been attempted, DS executes the high-riding urban crossover design well, with a good range of engines as well as a comprehensive amount of included equipment.