SECTOR: Compact Executive   PRICE: €29,550–€47,500   FUEL: 3.8–5.9/100km   CO2: 100–136g/km

With its own website and the beginnings of a dealer network, DS Automobiles has been taking steady steps away from Citroën for just over a year. But it’s the flagship DS 5 that’s leading the French premium brand’s separation, and the first European model not to feature the double-chevron badge.

So this is DS staking its claim on the executive segment, and putting the 5 up against some formidable rivals – A4, 3 Series and C-Class among them – in a market where others have tried, failed or spent decades trying to get to the top.

The DS 5 makes no attempt to look or feel like a German. Part sports tourer, part coupe, part hatchback in profile, it’s different enough not to blend in, but still just about conservative enough not to be challenging. The new DS grille and jewel-like LED-lined headlights haven’t blunted its unique sense of style.

But its key strength has always been the cabin. Wrapped around the driver like an aircraft cockpit – something alluded to by the horizon line on the digital dials – and offered with a smorgasbord of leathers, milled aluminium and seat finishes, it’s an environment which delights on small details.

The downside is, function has followed form. It’s comfortable up front but there’s limited rear headroom, no grab handles, the cup holders are poorly positioned and the split A-pillars create huge blind spots at junctions. A smaller, more dished, steering wheel would also be welcome.

Trim levels vary by market, but it’s the top versions which benefit the most from the recent refresh, getting the new wheels and headlamps, leather upholstery and the very useful reversing camera.

Selected markets also get specific versions aimed at fleets, offered in a high and low grade but with both versions including equipment such as navigation and cruise control, ideal for long-distance drivers, as well as a wider choice of engines and the option to retain the 17-inch wheels to maximise fuel economy.

It’s reckoned that the 2.0-litre BlueHDI 150 diesel engine will be the biggest seller. Offered with a manual gearbox and in all trim levels, this consumes 4.0l/100km and emits as little as 103g/km CO2, which is competitive in this class. Acceleration is smooth, though it’s a little gruff under load, and the convenience of an automatic gearbox is the only real benefit of the BlueHDI 180.

But it’s the 1.6-litre BlueHDI 120 which feels best tuned to the car. It feels more eager off the mark than the larger engines and, as it’s only available on the smaller wheels, the ride quality is sublime. For that alone, it’s worth downsizing and cherry-picking a few options from higher models.

The DS 5 is an executive car built as only the French would build one. It isn’t perfect, nor is it as practical or good to drive as the segment-defining Germans, but it’s a choice which hinges on aesthetic appeal. Buy into its modern interpretation of well-heeled 1950s automotive chic, and you’ll find it’s a characterful alternative to the obvious choices.

Verdict:

Luxurious, generously equipped and with a competitive engine range, the DS 5 is a leftfield choice which doesn’t fall down in the real world. Desirable and different.