The 2025 DS 8 FWD Long Range arrives as a chic and sophisticated electric SUV, aiming to blend French luxury with impressive electric performance. This front-wheel-drive variant prioritizes extended cruising capabilities and efficiency, making it a compelling option in the premium EV space. Key highlights include its avant-garde styling, a tech-rich interior, and a substantial battery promising excellent range. With an anticipated new price of around €63,200 in the EU, it’s positioned to attract buyers seeking a distinctive and capable family EV that doesn't skimp on panache.
The DS 8 is an entirely new nameplate for 2025, marking DS Automobiles' ambitious stride into the larger electric SUV market. This FWD Long Range trim is a launch highlight, showcasing the brand's latest advancements in electric drivetrain technology, built on Stellantis' modern STLA Medium platform. Expect DS's signature blend of high-fashion design cues, innovative technology like advanced driver aids, and a focus on refined comfort, all packaged into this fresh electric offering. It's all-new from the ground up, promising a cutting-edge experience for European customers.
The DS 8 FWD Long Range commands attention with its striking, typically French avant-garde design. Expect sharp, sculptural lines, a prominent grille, and sophisticated DS Light Veil signature daytime running lights. Measuring 4834 mm in length, 1920 mm in width (excluding mirrors), and 1574 mm in height, it boasts a confident stance. This specific trim will likely feature unique alloy wheel designs and subtle badging to denote its long-range, front-wheel-drive character, ensuring it looks every bit the premium contender on the road.
Step inside the DS 8 FWD Long Range, and you're greeted by an opulent cabin brimming with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, synonymous with DS. Passenger comfort for five is paramount, enhanced by a spacious feel from its 2905 mm wheelbase. It offers a generous 620 litres of boot space. Details on maximum capacity with seats folded are yet to be confirmed, and information on a front 'frunk' isn't currently available. A large central infotainment screen with seamless smartphone integration (Apple CarPlay & Android Auto) will be standard, alongside a digital driver's display.
The DS 8 FWD Long Range delivers a brisk 0-100 km/h sprint in 7.8 seconds. It’s a Front-Wheel Drive model, uniquely equipped with two Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors – one at the front axle and another at the rear. These combine to produce a healthy 206 kW (276 hp) of power and 345 Nm of torque, offering smooth and responsive acceleration up to a top speed of 190 km/h. Expect a serene and comfortable ride, prioritizing cruising refinement with multiple regenerative braking modes to enhance efficiency.
This long-legged DS 8 boasts a substantial 97.2 kWh usable battery capacity (101 kWh nominal), delivering an impressive Green Cars Compare calculated 'real-world' range of 638 km. Efficiency is rated at a solid 6.56 km/kWh. For charging, it features a CCS Type 2 port. Standard AC charging is handled by an 11 kW on-board unit (0-100% in approx. 9 hours), with a 22 kW optional upgrade available. DC fast charging maxes out at a speedy 200 kW, allowing for significant range recovery in around 30 minutes (10-80%).
While official Euro NCAP ratings for the new DS 8 are pending, it's engineered to target top scores, typical of Stellantis' latest platforms. The FWD Long Range trim is expected to come well-equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Standard features will likely include autonomous emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and traffic sign recognition, while options such as adaptive cruise control with stop & go, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system will further enhance safety and convenience for European drivers.
Owners of the 2025 DS 8 FWD Long Range in Europe can typically expect a comprehensive manufacturer warranty, often around 2 years with unlimited kilometres for the vehicle. The crucial high-voltage battery is likely to be covered for 8 years or 160,000 km, guaranteeing at least 70% of its original capacity. Details on powertrain warranty specifics and any complimentary maintenance packages will be confirmed closer to market launch. As a new model on a proven platform, reliability should align with modern EV standards.
