FRENCH luxury brand DS has revealed details of its new medium-sized model months before it is due for release later next year.

The new DS 4 will feature an array of new technology including a ‘smart' interface that allows users to control functions without having to touch anything inside the car.

The gesture operated system is one of a number of breakthroughs DS is deploying on the new model which will also be available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Other features include Active Scan Suspension which uses sensors to prepare the car for what lies ahead in the road and an extended head up display which appears to project information onto the highway.

DS says the new E-Tense plug-in hybrid version will have a zero emission range of up to30 miles on a full charge but details of other engines which will be available on the new DS 4 are sketchy at the moment.

The new DS 4 will sit on a new platform from parent group PSA which allows for electrification and the company says the DS 4 E-Tense will have a 180 hp four-cylinder petrol engine paired to a 110hp electric motor for a combined 225hp.

The company has developed what it is calling an Iris System and Smart Touch technology which is available via a screen on the centre console, which the driver and passengers can control with their fingertips - gesturing towards one of a number of pre-entered functions.

The eight-inch screen can also identify normal movements to zoom in and out, and features handwriting recognition.

To ensure the system and its mapping are operating at the highest level, software updates will be delivered automatically and instantly via the cloud.

A voice control system is also fitted and the new DS 4 will also have a night vision system and Matrix headlight technology which uses an LED system for optimum vision at all times.

Other features include a Level 2 autonomous driving system which is the highest level of automated assistance allowed at the moment.

DS says the new DS 4 is due for release towards the end of 2021.