DS DS5 I facelift (M32) (2015 – 2018)

Reliability score : 6.8/10

The DS 5 (phase 2, type M32) marks the emancipation of the DS Automobiles brand, permanently abandoning the Citroën chevrons on its grille in favor of the DS logo ('DS Wings'). This 2015 facelift brings a technological update (touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto) and, above all, new shock absorbers (PLV technology) intended to correct the major flaw of phase 1: an excessively stiff suspension. A true automotive UFO halfway between a shooting brake and a compact sedan, the DS 5 shines with its airplane 'cockpit' style interior and premium finish (watchstrap leather). Mechanically, it generalizes the latest generation BlueHDi and THP blocks. Overall score: 6.8/10.

✅ Strengths

Spectacular and timeless exterior design
Unique interior atmosphere (cockpit roof with 3 skylights)
Quality of materials (semi-aniline watchstrap style leather)
Excellent mechanical reliability of the 2.0 BlueHDi block (excluding emissions control)
Smooth and reliable EAT6 (Aisin) automatic gearbox

⚠️ Weaknesses

Suspension comfort still too firm despite the 2015 improvements
Highly problematic AdBlue emissions control system (BlueHDi)
Disappointing rear roominess and trunk volume for the size
Dated ergonomics (many buttons) and poor rear visibility
ETG6 gearbox on the Hybrid4 completely outdated in terms of drivability

🎯 Verdict

The facelifted DS 5 (2015-2018) is a passion purchase for lovers of design and atypical interiors. If you are targeting a diesel, the 2.0 BlueHDi 180 EAT6 is by far the best choice: it offers the necessary torque to move this heavy sedan while enjoying an excellent automatic gearbox. However, buying a BlueHDi model (1.6 or 2.0) must be done with extreme vigilance regarding the AdBlue system: favor an example whose tank has already been replaced with an invoice. Avoid the Hybrid4 version, whose automated gearbox completely ruins the premium driving experience. Finally, make sure the critical Takata airbags recall has been carried out.

Common issues

Défaillance du système AdBlue (SCR) High

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 800 – 1 800 €

Vérifier l'historique d'entretien AdBlue; utiliser un additif préventif.

Encrassement ou défaillance de la vanne EGR Medium

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 400 – 800 €

Privilégier les longs trajets; un nettoyage préventif peut aider.

Usure ou défaillance du volant moteur bi-masse (M32) High

🔧 100 000 – 180 000 km

💶 1 200 – 2 000 €

Écouter les bruits anormaux au ralenti; vérifier l'historique d'embrayage.

Encrassement du filtre à particules (FAP) Medium

🔧 100 000 – 200 000 km

💶 600 – 1 500 €

Effectuer régulièrement des trajets autoroutiers pour la régénération.

Usure des composants de suspension avant (rotules, silentblocs) Low

🔧 80 000 – 140 000 km

💶 300 – 700 €

Tester la suspension sur routes dégradées; vérifier l'alignement.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£80 – 150
Timing belt	£650 – 1 200
Clutch	£950 – 1 700
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

Indicative estimates (independent garage, UK market). Prices vary by region and year.