Citroën DS5 LS saloon makes European debut at Geneva
Citroën’s DS5 LS, previously intended for China, appeared at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, raising questions about a possible European launch for the long-wheelbase saloon.
Citroën brought its DS5 LS saloon to the 2014 Geneva Motor Show, marking the first time the China-built model appeared in Europe. Originally revealed at a Paris event in December 2013, the DS5 LS was developed for the Chinese market and is produced at the Shenzhen plant operated with Chang’an Automobile Group. Its presence in Geneva signalled Citroën’s interest in gauging European demand for the long-wheelbase luxury saloon segment.
China-built DS5 LS targets premium segment
The DS5 LS was conceived for Chinese buyers who favour spacious rear seating and upmarket features. Its 2,710 mm wheelbase and 4,700 mm overall length put it well above the standard DS5 hatch, offering more legroom and a conventional three-box saloon profile. The car’s front end takes cues from the Wild Rubis concept, with a prominent grille and chrome detailing, while the rear design is more restrained.
Inside, the DS5 LS focuses on comfort and perceived luxury, with Citroën aiming to attract Chinese customers seeking European prestige. The car is built exclusively at the Shenzhen facility, alongside the regular DS5, underlining the brand’s commitment to local production for China’s growing premium segment.
Engine options and technical details
Citroën offers three petrol engines for the DS5 LS. The range starts with a naturally aspirated 1.8-litre VTi producing 132 bhp. The familiar 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, co-developed with BMW, is available in two outputs: 158 bhp and 197 bhp. All engines drive the front wheels. No diesel or hybrid variants were announced for the Chinese market at launch.
| Length | 4,700 mm |
|---|---|
| Width | 1,840 mm |
| Height | 1,500 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,710 mm |
| Engine options | 1.8 VTi 132 bhp, 1.6 THP 158/197 bhp |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Production | Shenzhen, China |
Potential for European sales?
Citroën’s decision to display the DS5 LS in Geneva hinted at possible ambitions beyond China. While the model was not officially confirmed for Europe at the show, its size and specification position it as a rival to established premium saloons. European buyers, however, tend to expect more dynamic styling and a wider choice of engines, including diesel options.
By building the DS5 LS in China and focusing on local tastes, Citroën is following a pattern seen with other manufacturers targeting the world’s largest car market. For European customers, the DS5 LS’s Geneva appearance served mainly as a statement of intent rather than a product launch. The brand’s stand also featured the C5 Cross Tourer, which was confirmed for Europe at the same event. For more on Citroën’s Geneva show presence, seeCitroën C5 Cross Tourer debuts at 2014 Geneva Motor Show.
