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This is the DS 3 Crossback and for those with a refined sense of aesthetics, look away now. This is, to put it mildly, a challenging design for a small SUV, that tried to mix and match styling elements from the small DS 3 hatchback and the big DS 7 Crossback SUV. Has it done so successfully? We'll let you judge, but one thing is certain; this is a car which will get you noticed.
It will also be one of the first DS models to come with an electric powertrain. Initially, the DS 3 Crossback will come with a choice of 1.2-litre petrol PureTech engines, or a 1.5 BlueHDI diesel, borrowed from the rest of the PSA Peugeot Citroen Opel lineup. By the end of next year, though, it will also come as an electric car; the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense. That will use a combination of a 136hp electric motor, fed power from a 50kWh battery. DS claims that it will be able to go for 300km between charges, have a 0-100km/h time of 8.7 seconds, and the usual 80 per cent battery charge in 30 minutes from a fast-charging station.
"DS 3 Crossback offers a new and unique automobile experience, as DS 7 Crossback. It meets all the criteria for attracting and retaining a demanding clientele that is not prepared to trade features for size and compactness. Lovers of beautiful objects will be charmed by its sculptural design, the creativity of its interiors and the care taken with even the smallest details. Avant-garde technologies give customers a driving experience characterised by comfort, well-being, peace of mind and pleasure, over all types of journey and for all types of use, whether they choose a standard internal-combustion engine or a completely electric model. DS 3 Crossback is the essence of the DS: sophistication and technology, in a more compact frame. It marks a decisive stage in our deployment and growth as a brand" said Eric Apode, Senior Vice President for Products, at DS Automobiles.
While it borrows its internal combustion engines from existing models, the DS 3 Crossback actually rides on an all-new platform underneath - the CMP platform which PSA will eventually use to build almost all Peugeot, Citroen, DS, Opel, and Vauxhall models. At just over four metres long, the Crossback is a rival to the likes of the Audi Q2 and MINI Countryman, and effectively replaces the DS 3 hatchback, although that will continue on sale for a little while yet.
DS wants the car to be 'an icon of high-tech style' and while the look - with that awkward 'sharks fin' atop the rear door, and the big grille - might be hard to swallow, there is some impressive tech on board. That includes full LED lighting with Matrix beam technology, and the new DS Drive Assist, which can keep the car within its lane on the motorway, and a safe distance from the car in front, as well as creeping along in traffic jams.
There's also an automated parking system, smartphone-based 'smart key' system for unlocking and ignition, active city braking, and a heads-up display.
Inside, there's a 10.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, with the usual smartphone connections, and the option of a 515-watt Focal sound system (the tweeters for which are located in the 'sharks fin' things on the tops of the doors, so they do at least have a point.)
It should also be a very refined car - DS says that "particular emphasis was placed on acoustics in development. Vehicle soundproofing has been taken to a higher level with a thicker specification of metal for the door panels, a carefully designed air extraction zone, thicker glass windows and an acoustic windscreen."
On the outside, the door handles sit flush to the bodywork, popping out, Range Rover Velar-style, when needed. Ten alloy wheels and ten exterior colour choices are available, and the trim levels have some... interesting names, ranging from DS Montmarte, to DS Bastille, DS Performance Line, DS Rivoli, and DS Opera.