Currently reading: Hot Citroen DS 5LS R gets Beijing debut
Citroën reveals performance-inspired 300bhp version of its DS 5LS saloon

Citroën's new DS 5LS R concept car has made its world debut at the Beijing motor show.

Based on the firm's standard DS 5LS, the firm's flagship Chinese model revealed late last year, the R version features a more muscular design with new carbonfibre trim.

Finished in special anodised paint, the R model comes with a wide side stripe finished in matt grey, as well as R badging and new 20-inch alloy wheels.

The model also features Citroën's 'DS Wings' grille, finished in dark chrome, as well as a chassis that has been lowered by 15mm over the standard car.

Powering the DS 5LS R is a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine with 300bhp and 221lb ft of torque, connected to a sequential paddle-shift transmission.

Citroën says the car's powertrain is a nod to its World Rally Championship programme. The DS 5LS is the latest car in Citroën's performance car range, following on from the DS3 Cabrio Racing and the DS 4 Racing.

Inside, the new concept features a leather and Alcantara-trimmed cabin with new upholstery and embossed DS logos. New carbonfibre inserts also feature on the steering wheel, as well as the door handles and panels.

Like the standard DS 5LS, the R is only likely to be sold in the Chinese market if it makes production. The DS brand exists as a seperate entity from Citroën in the country, with a total of five models sold through a network of 50 'DS Stores'. 

Citroën was one of the first western marques to establish itself in China, and plans to launch a new DS SUV based on the Wild Rubis concept later this year.

There are also plans to launch a new DS luxury saloon based on the Numero 9 concept car in 2015. The company has set targets of selling 200,000 DS cars annually in the country by the end of next year.

Read more Beijing motor show news.

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Moparman 21 April 2014

A secret joint-venture?

I haven't heard of Citroen working with Ford but this car bears more than a passing resemblance to the current Ford Taurus. That is not a good thing.
Andrew Lee 6 April 2014

Humming noise?

It's the sound of Andre Citroen, not turning but in his grave on spin cycle.
Ali_ 4 April 2014

Vomit inducingly awful.

This car sums up everything that's wrong with modern car design. Dumpy, lumpy, brash, over styled pig of a car. Absolutely hideous.