DS Automobiles has unveiled its highly anticipated flagship model, the No8, an electric fastback with crossover design elements. Deliveries of this technologically advanced vehicle are expected to begin in the latter half of 2025. The No8 represents a significant step for the brand, embodying considerable ambition, though its pricing strategy positions it intriguingly within the DS lineup, stopping short of claiming the highest price tag.
In the French market, the DS No8's pricing structure starts at €59,200 for the base Pallas FWD model. The price ascends to €74,600 for the top-tier Etoile AWD Long Range variant. This Etoile edition is distinguished by its dual-motor powertrain, generating an impressive 370 horsepower. It is exclusively paired with a larger 97.2 kWh battery pack, enabling a remarkable WLTP-rated range of 686 kilometers.
DS Automobiles has strategically positioned the No8 against formidable competitors, even explicitly mentioning Audi and BMW during its official launch presentation. However, a closer look at the pricing reveals an interesting dynamic. The No8's starting price exceeds that of the Audi Q4 Sportback e-tron (€46,990) and the BMW i4 Gran Coupe (€57,600). When considering the fully equipped, top-of-the-line DS No8, it finds itself competing with larger, more established premium electric vehicles. These include the Audi A6 Sportback e-tron (€66,420), the Mercedes-Benz EQE Sedan (€70,050), and the BMW i5 (€76,250). This competitive landscape suggests that DS is aiming to capture a share of the premium EV market by offering a compelling combination of technology, design, and performance.
The showcased DS No8 Etoile, representing the top-tier configuration, boasts a Crystal Pearl exterior finish (€1,000), complemented by a black roof (€400) and 21-inch Cassiopeia alloy wheels (€1,100). The illuminated grille and DS Pixel Vision headlights are standard features on the Etoile trim level, further enhancing its visual appeal.
The interior of the featured No8 Etoile is adorned with Chestnut Brown Nappa Leather upholstery (€2,350), creating a luxurious and inviting atmosphere. A laminated panoramic roof (€800) adds to the sense of spaciousness and openness. The vehicle is also equipped with both the Absolute Comfort Pack (€2,500) and the Absolute Tech Pack (€1,350), which incorporate advanced features such as the DS Night Vision system, enhancing safety and driver assistance capabilities. Additional options selected for this configuration include the 22kW three-phase onboard charger (€900) for faster charging and the tool-free removable tow bar (€990) for added versatility.
With all these optional features included, the total price for the fully-loaded DS No8 reaches €85,990. This price point represents a substantial investment for an electric vehicle from a relatively young brand like DS. However, it is worth noting that it remains less expensive than the now discontinued DS9 Opera sedan. DS Automobiles has recently articulated its long-term ambition to move "beyond premium," aiming to establish itself within the upper echelons of the luxury automotive market. This strategic direction suggests that we can anticipate even more premium and potentially higher-priced models from the Stellantis-owned brand in the future, possibly including special editions or even more luxurious versions of the DS No8. The brand's commitment to pushing boundaries in design, technology, and luxury suggests an exciting future for DS Automobiles.