Launched in 2011, the upgraded model will now be offrered in two versions, the standard hatchback plus a new Crossback version that brings a 30mm higher driving position and more beefy styling, including large black wheels, wheel arch trims and roof bars.

DS Automobiles said the twofold offering would address the expectations of customers in the premium compact vehicle segment as crossover take-up continues to rise – it added that such vehicles now make up 30% of the premium compact hatchback market.

Yves Bonnefont, CEO, DS Automobiles, said: “DS embodies the spirit of avant-garde. In the case of New DS 4, the brand's spirit is expressed through an offering made up of two body styles: a new premium hatchback and an unprecedented new offer: DS 4 Crossback, with elegant go-anywhere style. With such complementary vehicles, the DS brand is clearly stating its ambition, and its ability, to meet customer expectations.”

Under the changes, the DS4 gains a new front end already seen on the DS5 and inspired by the Numéro 9 concept car. This includes a vertical grille with the DS monogramme and the ‘DS Wings’ signature to pay homage to the original DS, as well as new DS LED Vision headlamps, as seen on the DS3 and DS5.

Increased personalisation options are offered, with the new model bringing a two-tone offering with a choice of four colours for the roof and rear spoiler, the door mirrors and hub caps as well as nine body colours, giving up to 38 colour combinations. 

Meanwhile the new DS4 Crossback, which is aimed at customers looking for 'urban and extra-urban adventure’, brings a bespoke front end with black trim.

The new DS4 becomes the first vehicle in the PSA Group to offer CarPlay compatibility and also offers a new 7-inch colour touch screen. Both models are also available with DS Connect Box, which includes the SOS & Assistance pack, monitoring pack, mapping pack and tracking pack. In addition, a reversing camera and keyless entry and start are now available, alongside blind spot monitoring for greater convenience and safety.

The DS4 will be launched in Europe from October with six engines: one PureTech, two THP and three BlueHDi. The DS4 Crossback will offer a choice of four engines: two petrol and two diesel. Emissions start at 97g/km for the BlueHDi 120 entry-level diesel with the S&S six-speed manual gearbox with official combined fuel consumption of 3.7l per 100km.

Tim Urquhart, senior analyst, IHS Automotive, said of the new DS4: “PSA will be hoping that the Crossback variant will attract customers which may be looking for a vehicle which has stronger crossover or SUV tendencies, and boost overall DS sales numbers in Europe. However, IHS Automotive does not expect a significant improvement in sales numbers with the launch of these updates, anticipating that 2016 sales in Western and Central Europe will hold firm at around 17,000 units, but well below the 30,000 units recorded during 2012. It is also not expected to be boosted until its replacement in 2020.”