Citroen DS5 Hybrid in 2011

Citroen DS5 Hybrid diesel electric to launch in 2011

But news has reached us that the range of DS cars will be a fair bit more interesting than we expected. Citroen has confirmed that they are to launch the Citroen DS5 Hybrid in 2011. The DS5 will be Audi A6-ish in size, and by the looks of it it will be pretty good looking. This does, on the face of it, deserve to carry the DS badge.

But although the exterior is pretty impressive, and a convincing modern interpretation of the iconic DS range, it is under the bonnet that things get interesting. The Citroen DS5 will use diesel hybrid technology, pairing an HDI diesel engine and an electric motor to drive the rear wheels.

The DS5 will feature a new transmission and probably 4WD. In terms of economy and emissions, Citroen reckons that their new Hybrid diesel will reduce emissions by around 35%, with a price premium over the equivalent diesel of around £2,000.

Citroen say that this will be the first passenger diesel Hybrid car in the world when it launches in 2011.

Perhaps the new DS range will be more interesting than we first thought.

Update: The Citroen DS5 is now a reality, so we’ve posted a photo gallery for you to enjoy:

(38 photos – click any thumbnail for full gallery)

By Cars UK