DS Automobiles is preparing for a dramatic departure from conventional hatchback design with its next-generation No4 model, aiming for a “revolutionary” and “completely different” approach, according to design chief Thierry Métroz. The brand, which recently refreshed the DS 4 with styling cues borrowed from its flagship No8, is now focusing on a future iteration that could shake up the family car segment.
Reinventing the Hatchback
The next No4, slated for release towards the end of the decade, will not simply be an evolution of the current model. Métroz emphasized that the design team, working alongside Stellantis’s new head of group design Gilles Vidal, intends to “reinvent everything.” This ambition includes exploring entirely new forms and a unique design language.
The shift comes as automakers face pressure to stand out in increasingly crowded markets. The No4’s redesign is not merely about aesthetics; it’s about establishing a distinct identity for DS within the Stellantis portfolio and challenging traditional notions of what a family hatchback should look like.
Beyond Conventional Silhouettes
While the No4 will remain within the same segment, the team is actively experimenting with “different proportions” and “silhouettes.” Métroz explicitly ruled out both traditional SUV and sedan configurations, suggesting a departure towards a more aerodynamic and unconventional shape.
“It will not be an SUV, and definitely not a regular sedan… We are looking at very different proportions to express a different, brand new concept.”
This suggests DS may pursue a lower, wider, and more streamlined profile, prioritizing efficiency and visual impact over traditional practicality. The move reflects a broader trend in automotive design, where brands are increasingly willing to take risks with form to differentiate themselves.
A Bold Bet on Innovation
DS’s commitment to radical design is a calculated gamble. The No4’s success will depend on whether consumers embrace its unconventional approach. However, the brand’s willingness to challenge established norms could pay off by positioning DS as a forward-thinking and innovative force in the premium car market.
The next-generation DS No4 is poised to be a defining moment for the brand, testing the boundaries of automotive design and potentially reshaping expectations for the family hatchback segment.
