WITH its dynamic styling, array of classy on-board technology features and great handling capabilities, the DS 4 is a car that seems to have drifted slightly under the radar.

The DS Automobiles brand became independent when it moved away from its Citroen identity back in June 2014, but there are still plenty of puzzled looks when you explain the car is a ‘DS'.

One such encounter happened to me at the supermarket when a young gentleman asked me what the car was. I explained it was a DS and from the expression on his face, I just knew he was unaware what/who DS was. And so the usual explanation followed and he left a little wiser ⦠hopefully.

New DS models are very upmarket and well worth exploring.

Long gone are the Citroen chevrons and badging and in their place is the neat DS emblem sitting proudly on the black 3D-effect grille. There are dark tined windows, sweeping light clusters with LED daytime running lights and 18-inch alloys. Personally, I think by losing the chevrons the car looks far more premium than previous models did and that stylish design is certainly carried through to the interior where the car is packed with techno treats.

This car featured a seven-inch colour touchscreen with sat nav, dual zone air conditioning, multimedia connectivity via MirrorLink and CarPlay, a DAB digital radio, a chunky gear stick, flat-bottomed steering wheel, premium cloth upholstery and sports pedals.

Priced at £23,745 the car was powered by a 2.0-litre 150bhp diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. It could reach 62mph from a standing start in 10.9 seconds and topped out at 117mph.

According to official figures the DS 4 can deliver combined fuel economy of 72.4mpg with carbon emissions of 103g/km.

Comfort levels within the car are very high. It has a premium feel to it with lots of soft touch materials and all the instrumentation is modern in its design.

Space within the cabin is generous too and a couple of adults can stretch out in the back seats. The boot has a capacity of 385 litres which, whilst not the biggest in its segment, is practical enough to carry suitcases etc.

When it comes to performance the DS 4 is a delight to drive. In and around town the car weaves its way through the crowds and parking is made easier thanks to the rear parking sensors. The manoeuvrability is good and the driver benefits from good all-round visibility.

On the faster lanes and motorways, the car really is great fun to drive. The acceleration is good and the road-holding nice and confident. The cabin remains beautifully hushed from road, engine and wind noise even when the car is pushed hard and the comfort levels are so good that even after a long time behind the wheel there are no aches or pains.

DS has ensured the car is packed with safety features such as electronic stability control, electronic brake force distribution, cruise control with speed limiter along with numerous airbags and a great Thatcham alarm system to keep any unwanted attention at bay.

All in all the DS 4 is a fabulous car that is very competitively priced, packed with technology and full of premium styling cues.