DS has taken the wraps off the facelifted DS 7 Crossback, which gains modern styling features, more technology, and a new variant developed by DS Performance with a more powerful plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The DS 7 Crossback remains instantly recognizable, retaining its status as the most premium of the Stellantis SUV siblings (Peugeot 3008, Citroen C5 Aircross, Opel Grandland). The most noticeable change compared to its predecessor is the new LED DRLs called “DS Light Veil” which take up more space on the front bumper similar to the DS 4.
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The front end also benefits from the new matrix LED headlights featuring the DS Pixel LED Vision 3.0 technology but losing the rotating elements. Finally, the revised grille has grown larger with a more angular shape and a new mesh pattern, while the foglights and side bumper intakes are gone.
The profile looks identical with the exception of new alloy wheels ranging from 18- to 21-inches depending on the trim level. Moving over at the back, the tailgate is redesigned with more elongated LED taillights retaining the signature X-shaped pattern, an extra dynamic line above the license plate holder, and a new DS Automobiles lettering on the decorative strip. The rear bumper retains the diffuser-style element with faux tailpipes finished in chrome.
More powerful PHEV With 355 Hp
In terms of powertrains, the DS 7 Crossback remains available with Puretech petrol, BlueHDi diesel, and E-Tense PHEV flavors, although the ICE-only petrol is exclusively available outside Europe due to the stricter emission regulations
The big news is the addition of the DS 7 E-Tense 4×4 360 variant developed by DS Performance. The system comprises a turbocharged 1.6-liter petrol engine producing 197 hp (147 kW / 200 PS), a front-mounted electric motor producing 108 hp (81 kW / 110 PS), and a rear-mounted electric motor producing 110 hp (82 kW / 112 PS). Together, they are good for a combined 355 hp (265 kW / 360 PS) transmitted to all four wheels through an eight-speed automatic gearbox and allowing a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 5.6 seconds.
The most powerful model is visually distinguished by a set of exclusive 21-inch Brooklyn wheels, the DS Performance badges, and gloss black exterior accents. Besides the more potent powertrain, it features a number of chassis tweaks for improved handling. The suspension has been lowered by 15 mm (0.6 inches), the tracks are wider by 24 mm (0.9 inches) at the front and by 10 mm (0.4 inches) at the rear, while the brakes are larger measuring 380 mm (15 inches) in diameter.
Besides the flagship DS 7 E-Tense 4×4 360, the DS 7 Crossback range retains the known plug-in hybrid versions with 222 hp (166 kW / 225 PS) in FWD flavor and with 296 hp (220 kW / 300 PS) in AWD flavor. All plug-in hybrid models benefit from a new 14.2 kWh battery allowing up to 65 km (40 miles) of EV-only range in the WLTP mixed cycle, or up to 81 km (50 miles) in urban driving. The battery can be fully charged in two hours using a 7.4 kW charger.
Non-electrified options include the 1.5 BlueHDi diesel with 128 hp (96 kW / 130 PS), the 1.2 Puretech petrol with the same output, or the 1.6 Puretech petrol with 212 hp (158 kW / 215 PS) or 222 hp (166 kW / 225 PS).
More Tech Inside the Cabin
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Inside, the model gains the new DS Iris infotainment with revised graphics, a 12-inch central touchscreen, and a new 12-inch digital instrument cluster. The DS 7 is also equipped with the DS Active Scan Suspension system, with a camera scanning the road ahead for imperfections and adjusting damping on each wheel independently.
Safety-wise, the SUV gets the DS Drive Assist offering Level 2 autonomous driving. The package includes the DS Driver Attention Monitoring system, using two cameras to keep track of the driver’s face and eyelid movement, and the DS Night Vision showing the feed from an infrared camera on the instrument cluster.
DS is one of the premium brands of Stellantis, so it is offering plenty of personalization and high-quality upholstery options inside the cabin. Depending on the variant, the DS 7 Crossback can be had with Nappa leather, Claudia leather, or Alcantara upholstery, pearl stitching, and more.
The DS 7 Crossback will be available to order starting from July 11 in France, with the first examples expected to reach DS Stores in September. The SUV will be produced in Mulhouse, France, and in Shenzen, China for the local market.
