If a perfume bottle and an aerodynamic marvel had a baby, the DS No 8 would be it. This is not just another EV; it’s a French lesson in luxury and ingenuity wrapped in a fastback profile that defies easy categorization.
Whether it’s an SUV, a coupe, or an avant-garde hatchback is up for debate, but one thing’s clear: DS Automobiles has crafted a flagship designed to turn heads and make a statement.
The Numbers Speak for Themselves
Let’s dive into the specs because, let’s face it, that’s what we’re here for. The range is impressive, with up to 466 miles WLTP thanks to the 97.2 kWh battery. For real-world motorway cruising, you’re looking at a solid 310 miles at 75 mph.
Charging is equally robust, taking just 27 minutes to go from 20% to 80% with 160 kW fast charging. Performance comes in three powertrain options, with the top-tier dual-motor AWD system delivering 350 hp, accelerating to 62 mph in 5.4 seconds, and maxing out at 118 mph.
Efficiency is another standout, with a drag coefficient of 0.24 and a CdA of 0.63, making it one of the most aerodynamic EVs on the market.
These numbers are impressive on paper, but what really sets the No 8 apart is how it achieves them. Aerodynamics aren’t just a buzzword here; they’re the cornerstone of the design. From its lowered roofline to sharp bodywork inspired by endurance race cars, the No 8 is engineered for efficiency without compromising style.
Form Meets Function
The No 8’s aesthetic might remind you of the DS Aero Sport Lounge concept, and that’s no accident. With sharp LED lighting, a blanked-off grille that doubles as a design statement, and a two-tone color scheme featuring DS’s innovative Paintjet technology, this EV doesn’t whisper its presence—it announces it.
Inside, the artistry continues. Recycled Alcantara, olive-leaf-tanned leather, and angular design elements create a space that’s both eco-conscious and luxurious. The standout feature is the funky, X-patterned steering wheel.
Ergonomics may have taken a back seat to aesthetics here, but it’s undeniably French in its flair. Rear passengers get their share of luxury too, with reclining, heated, and cooled seats that redefine what it means to ride in comfort.
Tech That Elevates the Experience
This isn’t just about driving; it’s about the experience. The DS No 8 offers advanced technology to enhance every journey. Night Vision, powered by infrared cameras, helps spot hazards in the dark, while an Augmented Reality HUD transforms your windshield into a high-tech navigation system.
The Focal Electra 3D Sound system provides a premium audio experience, perfectly complementing the luxurious feel of the car.
Practical? Yes. Affordable? Not So Much
Starting at just under €60,000 and climbing to €85,000 for the Etoile trim, the DS No 8 is not for the faint of wallet. It’s priced to compete with the Polestar 4 and Mercedes-Benz EQE, aiming squarely at buyers who value style as much as substance.
Charge Complete
The DS No 8 is a testament to what happens when style, technology, and performance collide in a distinctly French package. It’s luxurious, it’s quirky, and it’s unapologetically DS.
While its price and avant-garde design might not appeal to everyone, for those who crave something different in the EV world, the DS No 8 delivers in spades. This isn’t just an electric car; it’s a declaration of French sophistication on wheels.
