The smallest SUV from DS gets a makeover, a new name and an array of tech tweaks On sale Now Price from £25,900
Max Adams Max.Adams@haymarket.com
HAVING A MID-LIFE makeover is a chance to start again, and that’s as true for cars as it is for humans. In its previous guise as the DS 3 Crossback, this upmarket small SUV was undoubtedly eye-catching and well equipped, but it was shown up by cheaper, more well-rounded rivals. Now, having shed its Crossback surname, the DS 3 has a second chance at glory.
Minor cosmetic surgery has moved the DS 3’s daytime running lights farther apart to make the front of the car look wider, the trim levels have been cut down to four, and the diesel engine has been dropped and the petrol range slimmed down. The biggest upgrades have been reserved for the electric E-Tense, which packs more punch than before (up from 134bhp to 153bhp) and has a larger battery with a 50.8kWh usable capacity (previously 45kWh) for a longer official range (up from 232 to 246 miles).
Despite the power increase, the E-Tense is slightly slower than before, because the larger battery adds weight. It’ll still get up to motorway speeds swiftly enough, but electric rivals such as the Kia Niro EV are noticeably perkier, as are non-electric small SUVs such as the Audi Q2 and Ford Puma, especially at higher speeds.
The 1.2-litre petrol engines are unchanged, and we’d avoid the entry-level Puretech 100, which feels underpowered, but the Puretech 130 is smooth and gutsy. It’s just a shame that the standard eight-speed automatic gearbox is slow to respond for quick bursts of acceleration. That’s not a problem in the single-speed electric E-Tense, of course.
As before, the DS 3’s soft suspension is intended to provide a comfortable ride rather than sharp handling. However, it isn’t quite controlled enough to absorb potholes as competently as the Q2 does. The DS 3 also leans over far more than the Q2 and Puma in corners if you try to drive it vigorously, and grip levels are lower. Still, the steering is nicely weighted and pleasant enough when threading the DS 3 down a winding road.
The driving position is comfortable, with our fully loaded Opera test car getting electric seat adjustment, adjustable lumbar support and a massage function. Unfortunately, visibility from the driver’s seat is hampered by thick pillars all around.
The new 10.3in high-definition infotainment touchscreen responds swiftly enough to inputs
