The DS No.8: A Comfort Car with a Twist
I've been driving the DS No.8 for a while now, and one thing that immediately stands out is its unique blend of comfort and performance. In my opinion, this car is a prime example of how manufacturers are trying to strike a balance between luxury and practicality, but it's not quite there yet.
The DS No.8 is marketed as a comfort car, and it certainly delivers on that front. Its smooth ride and leisurely demeanor make it a pleasure to drive on the highway. However, when you take it off the beaten path and onto the UK's pothole-ridden roads, the ride quality takes a hit. The road-scanning system, while adequate, doesn't quite live up to the standards set by its competitors, and the car's tendency to understeer at higher speeds is a bit surprising, especially given the advancements in adjustable suspension.
What makes this car particularly fascinating is its efficiency. The hotter weather has seen an improvement in the average range to 3.5mi/kWh, which is good news for electric vehicle owners. However, the real-world range remains the same at 320-330 miles, which is a bit of a mystery. I haven't seen the dramatic drop-off in range associated with lower temperatures, but I also haven't magically gained more range in the warmer months. It's an interesting phenomenon that warrants further investigation.
One thing that many people don't realize is that the DS No.8's range is more than sufficient for most daily commutes. I've been able to complete my most-used journeys, including a 288-mile round trip to Gatwick Airport, without any issues. The car's reliability and real-world range make it a viable option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint.
However, the DS No.8 is not without its quirks. The car has flagged that it's approaching its first service at 8,000 miles, and the service schedule is a bit underwhelming. The initial operation service doesn't provide much insight into what's going on under the hood, and the subsequent service consists mainly of replacing the passenger compartment filter and brake fluid. It's a bit concerning that there's not more in-depth maintenance involved.
I've also encountered some minor gremlins, such as inconsistent switches and issues with the electric memory seats and heated windscreen. The drive mode selector and haptic bar underneath the big screen also have a mind of their own, which can be frustrating. It's clear that the DS No.8 has some areas where it excels, but others where it falls short.
In conclusion, the DS No.8 is a comfort car with a twist. It delivers on its promise of a smooth ride and efficient range, but it's not without its quirks and shortcomings. Personally, I think it's a car that shows promise, but it needs some fine-tuning to live up to its full potential. From my perspective, it's a car that's worth considering for those looking for a luxury electric vehicle, but it's not quite there yet.
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