New DS 3 Crossback compact crossover unveiled
Ahead of a debut at the Paris Motor Show, the new DS 3 Crossback will be available with petrol, diesel or electric power
DS, the luxury arm of the French PSA Group, has revealed its second all-new model since the brand split from Citroen in 2014. The DS 3 Crossback will sit underneath the DS 7 Crossback and is offered as a compact SUV with a choice of petrol, diesel or all-electric power.
The 3 Crossback replaces the supermini-sized 3 in DS’s lineup, and the beefy SUV body brings a lot more practicality. The Crossback gains a set of rear doors – something the DS 3 never had – and offers a chunky silhouette. There are still shades of the old car, though – notably in the DS corporate grille, the characteristically angular alloy wheel designs and a ‘shark fin’ design panel on the rear doors.
Two-tone paintwork and chunky chrome detailing also features, especially around the grille and as a full-width bar connecting the taillights.
As with any DS model, personalisation will be a key selling feature. A total of 10 body colours and three roof colours are available, plus 10 different alloy wheels. A range of ‘Inspirations’ are also offered – trim levels to you and me – named Montmartre, Bastille, Performance Line, Rivoli, Opera and La Premiere.
Inside, the DS 3 Crossback receives an evolution of the signature ‘diamond’ motif for the switchgear, air vents and dashboard.
Under the skin, the DS 3 will join the Volvo XC40 in promising petrol, diesel and all-electric powertrains on a compact crossover platform. Three-cylinder ‘PureTech’ petrol units will sit alongside a 1.5-litre diesel, with power outputs ranging from 99bhp to 154bhp. Around six months after launch, DS will also introduce an E-Tense model.
The E-Tense will use a 136bhp electric motor mated to a 50kWh battery pack, giving a theoretical range of 186 miles and a 0-60mph sprint of 8.5 seconds.
The DS 3 Crossback is set to compete with the likes of the Audi Q2, Mini Countryman and Volvo XC40 when it launches next Spring. Expect prices to kick off just over £20,000.
