DS 3 Crossback E-Tense

The electric model, called the E-Tense, will have all the same options as the fossil fuel cars: it will offer colors, trim options and all the customization that you’ll find elsewhere. Essentially, it’s not going to ask you to compromise. However , there will be some differences in the interior presentation of information and some switch gear, but much of the car remains the same.

Some of this comes down the new CMP — common modular platform — of which there is an electric version (e-CMP) that underpins this new model and will be the platform for other group models in the future.

The battery is integrated into the floor and under the back seat of the car; under the bonnet is the electric motor and other elements, like the charging controller unit and heat pump for cabin and battery conditioning.

About the only adjustment needed to accommodate the electric version of this car is a slightly different rear suspension set-up. The boot space remains close to that of the ICE (internal combustion engine version) at around 350 litres.

DS 3 Crossback E-Tense range, battery and 0–62 time

The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense has a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery with a cited range of 300 km or 186 miles (450 km/280 miles)There’s support for fast charging of the battery up to 100 kW, so the E-Tense can be charged to 80 per cent in around 30 minutes .

Charging from an 11 kW wall box at home would take about 5 hours, as well as offering charging from a conventional three pin plug, which will take a lot longer.As you’d expect, there’s a regenerative braking system to charge the battery as you drive, as you’ll find on other electric or hybrid vehicles.

There’s a 100 kW motor which will give you 136 hp, with a 0–62 mph time of 8.7 seconds. That might not set the world alright, but the 0–30 time of 3.3 seconds is perhaps more important. Like most electric cars, you’ll get huge dump of torque from the electric motor to give you nippy off-the-line pace, perfect for city driving.

There’s a heat pump in the E-Tense that will be used for battery conditioning — cooling or heating — to ensure that optimum conditions are maintained, and also allowing for pre-conditioning of the cabin while still connected to the power.

Styling and interior

The Crossback name really means that DS Automobiles has put the DS 3 on steroids, moving it from hatchback to mini SUV in style, for a chunkier appearance, with greater on-the-road presence. Much of the DS identity remains, with those vertical daytime running lights and a larger headlight cluster that’s exquisite, offering smart LED matrix lights.

From the side the Crossback has the shark-fin detailing around the b pillar, behind the front doors, which separates front from back, like the old DS 3. This means there’s still something recognizable. That DS design has become rather iconic, as there are a lot of DS 3 on the road.

But the shift to SUV styling does make the bottom of this car look a little heavier than the top — and with options to vary the roof colour, there’s the opportunity to create an interesting pairing for a unique style.

There are quality details that you might not expect on this level of car, like the hidden door handles that pop-out to let you open the doors. It’s not quite the effect you get from Tesla or the Range Rover Velar, but it’s a nice touch none the less and comes as standard on all models.

Unique styling is what really defines the interior of the DS 3 Crossback, which is where things get really interesting. It’s potentially an interior that will divide opinion, but it goes places that Audi or VW won’t.you’ll find unique stitching techniques and leather details that are inspired by luxury brands, not just a flat and safe appearance. For some that will give this car character over the flat, black, soft touch plastics that inhabit most cars in this segment. Some others might just find it a bit odd.

Interior technology and connectivity

Continuing a partnership with Focal, the DS 3 Crossback was designed to house a 12-speaker Focal system offering 515 watts. The cabin, DS Automobiles tells us, is a naturally quiet place and well insulated against noise, so that Focal system should have a great space to show off its talents. The E-Tense will have the added advantage of not having the combustion engine noise.

The interior is 100 per cent digital, with a driver display that’s digital and a central 10.3-inch display. DS Drive Assist will add some safety features to the car, letting you automatically regulate the speed and position in the lane. It’s a step on the path to autonomous driving, basically using adaptive cruise control and lane assist to keep you in the right place on the road; DS Park Pilot will also be able to park the car for you, using radar and cameras, like Drive Assist, to position the car accurately.

There will also be enhanced connectivity options through the MyDS app and the DS Smart Access function. This will let you use an app to remotely unlock and start your car, it can grant access to someone else for a limited time period — for ride sharing or because some forgot their keys.