Stellantis’s French division is betting big on the DS No8 – its first dedicated electric vehicle designed from the ground up to compete in the crowded premium EV market.
The No8 marks a departure from previous DS models that simply converted petrol engines to electric. This flagship model uses a platform shared with mainstream vehicles but includes extensive modifications to establish DS as a serious luxury EV contender.
The company claims a maximum range of 466 miles – positioning the No8 directly against established rivals like the Polestar 4, Tesla Model Y, BMW i4 and Audi Q4 e-tron sportback.
Design and Interior Quality
DS classifies the No8 as a D-segment SUV coupe, measuring 4.8 meters long. The width and relatively low height create more of a fastback profile than traditional SUV proportions.
The design emphasizes aerodynamics alongside aesthetics. The sharply raked roofline flows toward trihedral LED tail lights, while pointed LED running lights stretch to the car’s edges. Higher trims feature an illuminated grille with tightly packed upright “slats.”
Interior materials include blue Alcantara or optional tan Nappa leather with watchstrap detailing. The cabin features a four-spoke steering wheel, starburst center console pattern, and prominent door speaker surrounds.
Build quality shows some inconsistencies. While surface materials feel premium, harder prodding reveals firm plastics underneath. Some thin, flimsy plastics wouldn’t meet Polestar or Genesis standards.
Front seats offer heating, cooling, massage functions and plenty of adjustment space. A convertible-style neck warmer helps reduce climate system energy consumption.
Rear passengers face limited legroom despite the car’s size, with a high floor creating a knees-up seating position. The trade-off provides a massive 638-liter boot capacity.
The 16-inch widescreen infotainment display handles most functions, though physical buttons control drive modes and key features. The latest DS operating system responds quickly but requires excessive screen navigation.
Battery and Performance Options
Three powertrain configurations launch with the No8.
The entry-level setup pairs a 74kWh battery with a 227bhp front-wheel-drive motor.
The long-range model uses a 97.2kWh battery and 242bhp front motor – delivering the claimed 466-mile range. DS quotes a more realistic 310-mile motorway range, with official efficiency rated at 4.8m/kWh.
The range-topping all-wheel-drive version maintains the large battery while providing 345bhp, 377lb ft torque, and 407-mile range. All variants include a 30bhp overboost for overtaking situations.
The AWD model accelerates 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds – respectable but not matching the Polestar 4 or dual-motor Model Y. Both throttle and brake pedals feel spongy, while steering calibration favors comfortable cruising over sporty driving.
Multiple drive modes adjust throttle response, with three regenerative braking levels controlled via steering wheel paddles. One-pedal driving activates separately.
Higher-grade models feature DS’s road-scanning suspension that primes dampers for upcoming surface irregularities. This system delivers comfort levels reminiscent of classic Citroën models, while standard suspension still provides smooth, well-isolated ride quality.
All No8 variants support peak DC charging of 160kW. DS claims superior real-world charging performance compared to competitors, with 20-80% charging completed in 27 minutes.
Pricing and Specifications
Pricing starts at £50,790 and reaches £63,290 across two trim levels and three powertrains.
Entry-level Pallas offers both front-wheel-drive options, while Etoile trim adds the all-wheel-drive choice. Etoile pricing begins at £54,790 for standard-range FWD and peaks at £63,290 for the AWD configuration.
Standard equipment includes heated front seats and steering wheel, two-zone climate control, powered tailgate, 16-inch touchscreen with wireless phone mirroring, head-up display, heat pump, and adaptive cruise control.
All models come with 20-inch wheels – buyers wanting the full 466-mile range must specify optional 19-inch wheels.
Etoile specification adds active scan suspension, Pixelvision adaptive headlights, active lane change assistance, 360-degree parking camera, and neck-warming seats.
Optional packages provide features like panoramic sunroof and Focal 14-speaker audio system.
The DS No8 delivers individual styling, comfortable driving dynamics, and genuine long-distance capability through its 400-mile+ range. Interior quality issues and cramped rear accommodation present drawbacks in the premium segment.
French brands historically struggle with large car sales in the UK market – a challenge that persists when buyers can choose the Polestar 4 or BMW iX3 for similar pricing.
DS No8 Etoile AWD Long Range Specifications:
- Price: £63,290 (£69,190 as tested)
- Powertrain: Dual-motor all-wheel-drive
- Battery: 97.2kWh
- Power: 345bhp
- Torque: 377lb ft
- Top speed: 118mph
- 0-62mph: 5.4 seconds
- Range: 407 miles
- Consumption: 4.4m/kWh
- Charging: Up to 160kW
Key Alternatives:
- Polestar 4 – Strong performance and refined styling, though infotainment system needs improvement
- BMW iX3 – Similar pricing with extended range and high-tech luxury interior
- Tesla Model Y – Solid EV capabilities at lower cost but lacks DS character and style
