AS part of the ongoing evolution of Peugeot Citroen's DS brand all vehicles are now being branded as DS Automobiles rather than anything Citroen-related.

The newest addition is a revised version of the DS 4, probably the most overlooked member of the DS family in that it doesn't quite have the quirkiness of either the DS 3 or DS 5.

More of a conventional hatchback this mid-life makeover model has plenty that's new though.

New versions of the DS 4 and DS 4 Crossback feature the stylish ‘DS Wings' front end, new DS branding, new personalisation options, new trim levels and new engines.

They also become the first vehicles in the PSA Group to offer Apple CarPlay.

It's one thing announcing that you're launching a dedicated premium brand or sub-brand and another thing altogether to deliver it.

It's fair to say PSA have upped their game considerably with the new DS 4 and created something that looks more than capable of competing on merit alone in the premium segment.

From an exterior perspective that new front end does look classy and helps give the DS 4 real presence.

To be fair it was a good looking car anyway but it's certainly been noticeably enhanced.

Little touches like clever and subtle use of chrome give it added appeal and enhance its upmarket flavour.

On the inside the DS 4 really does feel like a big step up, suggesting PSA really has gone the extra mile to make it something special.

The leather-trimmed dashboard is a stand-out feature but pretty much everything - from the leather-trimmed gearstick and steering wheel to the top-notch instrumentation and switchgear - set new standards of opulence.

I also love the watch-strap seats. Their crisscross pattern not only looks good but they also feel exceptionally comfortable too.

In terms of trim levels the previous DSign, DStyle and DSport options have been scaled down to two - Elegance and Prestige.

This Prestige range-topping diesel certainly seemed to have pretty much every bell and whistle one could wish for.

Although the diesel engine in this model has been carried over it continues to be a more than capable performer, which PSA say offers more torque than any of its main competitors.

There are six engine options in total, including the addition of the commendable three-cylinder turbo petrol PureTech 130 which replaces the old 1.6-litre petrol unit.

A new high-performance THP 210 petrol engine is also exclusively available in the DS 4 though it won't be offered for the Crossback.

The diesel options encompass three Euro 6 BlueHDi diesel engines ranging from 118-178bhp.

Both driving dynamics and ride quality seem to have been enhanced in the new model too and the blend of agility and comfort is a good one.