Introducing the brand new DS 3 - a car that’s had a hefty makeover to get it ready for big things in 2023.
First things first, some explanation is in order here to get you up to speed with the DS 3 range.
Back in 2020, the old DS 3 hatchback was replaced by the DS 3 Crossback - a car that had a raised height and a much more SUV-like profile compared with the vehicle it replaced.
Now, however, that ‘Crossback’ title has been ditched - and we’re once again left with a car that’s simply called ‘DS 3’. So, we’re back where we started!
As with the outgoing ‘Crossback’, the new DS 3 keeps the same SUV-crossover silhouette that’s proving so popular with lease customers.
As before, the DS 3 is available with both a traditional petrol engine or with an electric powertrain. The fully-electric DS 3 is known as ‘E-TENSE’.
And it’s with this DS 3 E-TENSE variant that you’ll find some of the most headline-grabbing changes.
The old DS 3 Crossback E-TENSE made use of a 50 kWh battery that translated to power of around 138 PS and a range of up to 200 miles.
Now, however, the new and improved DS 3 E-TENSE has been given a larger 54 kWh unit that takes the power up to 157 PS and increases the range between charges to 249 miles.
As standard, the onboard charger takes 100 kW in direct current and means a 10-80% battery replenish in 30 minutes. A comparable home wallbox charge will take around 5 hours and 45 minutes.
When it comes to the petrol drivetrains, there’s a ‘PureTech 100’ with a 6-speed manual gearbox, or a more powerful ‘PureTech 130’ mill with 8-speed automatic gearbox.
As for how the new DS 3 looks, the French manufacturer describes it as ‘seductive’. Well, we are approaching Valentine’s Day after all…
There’s a completely redesigned new front end, fresh rear, and a greater choice of colours.
A DS spokesperson adds:
“The profile maintains its distinctive signatures, balancing between daring design and technical expertise with the distinctive DS 3 shark’s fin, flush fitting door handles and invisible exterior window seals.”
Step inside the cabin and you’ll find an interior ‘inspired by the biggest names in French luxury’. In that respect, DS interiors tend to be a cut above rivals, so you can bet your bottom dollar it’ll be a pleasant place to spend time on the road.
There’s new upholstery, a new steering wheel, new 10.3 inch touch screen as standard, and plush, figure-hugging new seats.
There are four trim levels to choose from - the entry-level ‘Performance Line’, followed by ‘Performance Line +’, ‘Rivoli’ and ‘Opera’.
Those range-topping ‘Opera’ models feature an eye-catching black Nappa leather interior with watch-strap seats.
Meanwhile the DS 3 comes generously equipped as standard, no matter which variant you choose to lease. Every DS 3 comes with goodies such as LED headlamps, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition, and an active safety brake.
As for rivals, look no further than other vehicles in the Stellantis group, including the Vauxhall Mokka Electric and the new Jeep Avenger.
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