DS unveiled the updated DS 3 compact SUV, which drops the Crossback name while gaining modern styling cues, a new infotainment system, and a revised powertrain lineup. More importantly, the fully electric DS 3 E-Tense brings increased power and range figures, effectively previewing the new or updated Stellantis sibling EVs in the small segment.
Revised Range With A Focus On The E-Tense
Just like its predecessor that was unveiled back in 2018, the facelifted DS 3 is available in petrol, diesel, and EV variants. Setting aside the familiar 1.2-liter PureTech 100 petrol with a six-speed manual, the 1.2-liter Puretech 130 petrol, and the 1.5-liter BlueHDi diesel with an eight-speed automatic, the highlight is the improved specs of the EV. More specifically, the DS 3 E-Tense is upgraded with a new 400-Volt electric motor, reduction gear, and 54 kWh battery, all made in France.
As a result, the facelifted DS 3 E-Tense now offers 154 hp (115 kW / 156 PS) and 260 Nm (191.8 lb-ft) of torque, an increase of 20 hp (15 kW / 20 PS) over its predecessor. The slightly larger battery (54 kWh from 50 kWh) alongside small improvements in efficiency and aerodynamics result in an increased range of 402 km (250 miles). Through a 100 kW charger, the battery can go from 0 to 80 percent in 25 minutes, with a full charge completed in five hours through an 11 kW wallbox.
Subtle Styling Changes And A New Infotainment
Visual changes are focused on the front bumper, with the DS 3 gaining the signature “DS Wings” LED DRLs, a feature introduced by the DS 4 and adapted to the facelifted DS 7. Other changes at the front include the more modern and standard LED headlight graphics (optional DS Matrix LED Vision), the slightly revised grille with less chrome around it, and the sharper aerofoils highlighting the bumper intakes. At the back, the only change is the new lacquered black strip around the taillights.
The profile looks identical, with the exception of new wheel designs measuring 17 inches or 18 inches in diameter. The color palette has also been revised with the addition of two new colors – Diva Red, and Lacquered Grey, joining the Crystal Pearl, Platinum Grey, Artense Grey, Perla Nera Black, and Polar White shades. All of them can be combined with Perla Black or Carat Grey roof, for those who want a bi-tone look.
See Also: Facelifted DS 7 E-Tense Detailed In Massive Gallery, Tops Out At €78,400 In France
Inside, changes are focused on the new DS IRIS infotainment, with twelve square widgets in the 10.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone mirroring, and advanced voice recognition supporting no less than 40 languages. The new display is combined with a configurable 7-inch digital instrument cluster and head-up display. From the MyDS app, the owner gets remote control features. The optional 515 Watt Focal Electra sound system has twelve speakers including a subwoofer and TNF tweeters, for a premium audio experience.
DS designers added a new steering wheel with a different setup for the integrated controls. Depending on the variant, the upholstery options include Silicium Grey Peruzzi Cloth, Alcantara, Basalt Black grained leather, Pebble Grey, or Basalt Black Nappa leather, while the front seats can be heated, electric, and massaging.
Also Read: DS 9 Is A Quirky French Luxury Car For Committed 5-Series Haters
Standard safety kit includes the Lane Keeping Assist, Traffic Sign Recognition, and Active Safety Brake, while optional features like the Visio Park 2 (360-degree camera), the Extended Traffic Sign Recognition, and the DS Drive Assist (combining the adaptive cruise control and lane keeping assist) contribute to level 2 autonomy.
DS opted for a simplified trim structure similar to the larger DS 7, including the entry-level Bastille, the sporty Performance Line and Performance Line+, the mid-spec Rivoli, and the flagship Opera. The company will start taking orders in France starting on September 27. Pricing starts from €30,100 ($29,091) for the petrol, from €34,700 ($33,535) for the diesel, and from €41,700 ($40,300) for the E-Tense. The SUV will be produced at the Poissy plant in Paris, France.
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