Our first drive within the 100% electrical model of the trendy five-door DS 3 compact SUV
Initially launched because the DS 3 Crossback in 2019, this stylish crossover was initially out there with a selection of petrol and diesel engines (a 100% electrical variant following a 12 months later).
Quick ahead to 2023 and never solely has the automotive dropped its “Crossback” monicker and obtained a facelift and different updates, however it’s now a straight selection between petrol or electrical energy.
We’ve by no means pushed the EV model (marketed because the DS 3 E-Tense), so right here’s the way it shapes up. However first, a little bit of background.
DS Cars break up from Citroen to turn out to be an progressive premium model method again in 2014. Since then, the 2 manufacturers have turn out to be a part of the large Stellantis Group, which additionally contains Peugeot, Jeep, Alfa Romeo and Fiat.
DS’s competitors division, DS Efficiency, has competed in Method E since 2015, clinching the primary group/drivers’ double world title in 2019.
DS Cars is now one of many premium arms of Stellantis with a fast-expanding vary, and the brand new DS 3 E-Tense battles it out in a aggressive compact SUV EV section, although it’s arguably essentially the most upmarket providing.
Not solely is it up towards its Stellantis cousins – the Peugeot e-2008, Vauxhall Mokka and upcoming Jeep Avenger – but additionally the MG ZS EV, Hyundai Kona Electrical and Kia Soul EV.
On a technical degree, the massive change for 2023 is a bigger 54kWh battery (up from 50kWh) and extra energy. Consequently, the small electrical SUV now provides a spread of as much as 250 miles (beforehand 212 miles).
Visually the DS 3 E-Tense’s refined facelift delivers additional kerb attraction and improves aerodynamic effectivity.
The redesigned entrance finish options new LED headlights and daytime working lights, plus a barely bigger diamond grille and new spoiler.
“DS Cars” is written throughout the boot, whereas the profile is as distinctive as ever with its shark’s fin rear window design and flush door handles. There are additionally new wheel designs and a complete of seven physique colors with contrasting roofs.
Inside, essentially the most vital change is the up to date infotainment system, which is less complicated to make use of than the earlier model and it’s additionally extra responsive.
There’s a 7.0-inch digital driver’s instrument show and 10.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity.
Elsewhere, the supplies used have an upmarket really feel. The watchstrap leather-based seats look particularly cool and are very comfy, however among the quirky performance does take some getting used to.
As an example, the switches to open the home windows flank both aspect of the gear selector, whereas touch-sensitive short-cut buttons for the touchscreen, plus different necessities corresponding to audio quantity and heated seats, are all dotted across the central air vents.
For the document, there are 4 trim ranges out there – Efficiency Line, Efficiency Line+, Rivoli and Opera.
The DS Security Pack can also be fitted as commonplace, and this contains autonomous emergency braking (AEB), lane-keep help and velocity restrict recognition – all serving to to offer the DS 3 a most five-star security score from Euro NCAP.
Area up entrance is sweet, however it’s lower than spectacular behind the place there’s solely simply room for adults and visibility is compromised, particularly for babies, due to the fins on the rear doorways, excessive waistline and thick B pillars.
The boot is 350 litres, or 1,050 litres, with the rear seats folded. Not class-leading, however sufficient for the purchasing or a modest quantity of bags.
With mild steering and a trip that’s arrange for consolation, the DS 3 E-Tense drives properly.
Naturally, there’s loads of torque, however it’s not gut-wrenching like another EVs.
The one electrical motor that drives the entrance wheels produces 154bhp and 192lb ft of torque, taking 9 seconds to hit 62mph (most velocity 93mph).
The sleek energy supply leads to a refined cabin atmosphere that matches the automotive’s stylish character properly.
You may have enjoyable within the DS 3 E-Tense as a result of it’s nimble and responsive, however you’ll expertise physique lean in quicker, tougher corners, so greatest to not get carried away.
Traction is sweet general, although it’s doable to spin the entrance wheels on looser or moist surfaces for those who plant your foot from a standing begin.
Traction is sweet general, although it’s doable to spin the entrance wheels on looser or moist surfaces for those who plant your proper foot from a standing begin.
There are three drive modes – Eco, Regular and Sport. As ever, Regular is simply effective as a result of Eco dulls the driving expertise, and although Sport livens issues up slightly, it does sap the battery vary.
We’d estimate real-world driving vary might be nearer to 200 than 250, which actually makes it a sensible proposition for many drivers.
The DS 3 can take as much as 100 kW DC charging, which permits a 0-80% replenishing of its battery in half-hour. Plug it at residence through a 11 kW AC wallbox and a 0-100% cost will take 5 hours, 45 minutes.
Maybe the largest problem for the DS 3 E-Tense is its value. Beginning at £37,200 and rising to £41,700, it’s a comparatively costly small EV.
Verdict: If you happen to’re in search of a 100% electrical compact SUV and also you recognize high quality and elegance, then take into account the DS 3 E-Tense. It’s not with out a few frustrations and compromises, however it’s simple and enjoyable to drive – and crucially – stands out from the gang.
DS Cars
