DS DS5 I facelift (M32) (2015 – 2018)

Reliability score : 6.8/10

The DS 5 (Generation I facelift, code M32) marks a historic turning point: introduced in 2011 under the Citroën badge, it lost its chevrons during its 2015 facelift to inaugurate the "DS Wings" grille and officially launch DS Automobiles as an independent premium brand in Europe. Based on the older PF2 platform (Peugeot 3008 I), it retains its avant-garde "shooting brake" design and aeronautics-inspired cabin. Although the facelift brought new shock absorbers (PLV technology) to mitigate the excessive firmness of early models and updated the engines to Euro 6 standards, the DS 5 remains a car with a firm ride and complex ergonomics. It is aimed at buyers looking for an atypical alternative to traditional German sedans.

✅ Strengths

Atypical and charismatic exterior design that ages very well
Spectacular cabin (aircraft cockpit, glass roof with 3 skylights)
Improved material quality on this facelifted version
Careful soundproofing
Driving experience of the EAT6 automatic gearbox (on THP 165 and BlueHDi 120/180)
Very high-performing and economical 2.0 BlueHDi engines

⚠️ Weaknesses

Suspension comfort still too firm (despite the PLV shock absorbers from the facelift)
Disappointing rear roominess and trunk volume for its size
Almost non-existent rear visibility (reversing camera essential)
Complex ergonomics (many buttons, slow touchscreen multimedia system)
Older platform (PF2) limiting modern driving aids
High weight penalizing agility and fuel consumption (especially on Hybrid4)

🎯 Verdict

The facelifted DS 5 (2015-2018) is a "passion purchase". It is aimed at those who prioritize style, originality, and interior ambiance over pure comfort and practicality. In terms of reliability, the 1.6 THP 165/210 petrol engines of this era (Euro 6) are significantly more recommendable than the older generations, although they require rigorous maintenance. The best compromise remains the 2.0 BlueHDi 180 EAT6, which is powerful and mechanically reliable, provided you ensure that the chronic AdBlue tank issue has already been addressed or budget for its replacement (around €1,000 to €1,500). Avoid the Hybrid4 version, whose automated gearbox driving experience and excessive weight ruin the experience.

Common issues

Usure/détérioration de la chaîne de distribution (moteur 1.6 THP) High

🔧 80 000 – 150 000 km

💶 800 – 1 500 €

Écouter les bruits anormaux au démarrage à froid; vérifier l'historique d'entretien.

Encrassement des soupapes d'admission (moteur 1.6 THP) Medium

🔧 60 000 – 120 000 km

💶 300 – 700 €

Un décalaminage préventif peut être envisagé; utiliser du carburant de qualité.

Défaillance de la pompe haute pression (HPFP) (moteur 1.6 THP) Medium

🔧 70 000 – 130 000 km

💶 500 – 900 €

Attention aux démarrages difficiles, pertes de puissance ou voyant moteur.

Fuites de la pompe à eau (moteur 1.6 THP) Medium

🔧 80 000 – 140 000 km

💶 300 – 600 €

Surveiller régulièrement le niveau de liquide de refroidissement et les traces sous le véhicule.

Estimated maintenance costs

Oil change	£70 – 130
Timing chain	£750 – 1 400
Clutch	£850 – 1 500
Complete brakes	£280 – 550
Estimated annual budget	£650 – 1 300

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