know all cars

Spy photos show Citroën is preparing a minor facelift for the DS5 premium hatchback.

The stylish DS5 came out in 2011 when it was unveiled in China at Auto Shanghai and it seems it will receive a minor nip and tuck to keep the model fresh. Spotted testing in southern Europe, the prototype was probably a China-spec model judging by the lettering on the tailgate while all the camouflage was on the front fascia. It's either an early prototype not carrying all forthcoming cosmetic changes or the visual tweaks will be limited to a new front bumper, grille and air intakes.

Despite the DS5 moniker, the model isn't based on the C5 as it actually uses PSA's PF2 platform which has also underpinned the DS4. While the C5 has an independent multi-link rear suspension, the DS5 comes with a torsion beam configuration on all versions except for the Hybrid4 which gets the multi-link rear axle.

Engine options will likely carry over so expect a THP 200 gasoline motor along with several turbodiesels such as the e-HDi 115, BlueHDi 120, HDi 160 and BlueHDi 180. Depending on engine choice, the DS5 can be had with a 6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic or an ETG6 gearbox. There's also the aforementioned Hybrid4 range-topping hybrid diesel version combining a 163 PS 2.0-liter diesel with a 37 PS electric motor that powers the rear axle and grants a 200 PS four-wheel drive setup.

An official launch of the Citroën DS5 facelift could occur in March 2015 at the Geneva Motor Show.