DS3 Crossback debuts with all-electric E-Tense model

Following an impromptu reveal recently, the DS3 Crossback has finally made its official debut, and we now have a lot more information about the compact SUV. Built on the Common Modular Platform (CMP), the DS3 Crossback represents a blend of funky French styling, technology, and can be had with a choice of powertrains.

Starting with what’s under the bonnet, the DS3 Crossback’s internal combustion engine line-up includes both petrol and diesel powerplants. The former includes a 1.2 litre PureTech three-cylinder engine with outputs of 100 PS, 130 PS and 155 PS, while oil burners are 1.5 litre BlueHDi mills in 130 PS and 100 PS outputs. Transmission options are an eight-speed EAT8 automatic and a six-speed manual, with all-wheel drive available.

The zero-emissions route is represented by the DS3 Crossback E-Tense, which will be available from the second half of 2019. The setup consists of a 136 PS (100 kW)/260 Nm electric motor that draws its power from a 50-kWh lithium-ion battery under the floor.

Recharging the battery is possible via the car’s regenerative braking and deceleration system, or with a range of charging solutions – home plug, wallbox or even a fast charger. According to DS, a full charge is achieved in five hours when the vehicle is plugged into a dedicated 11-kW AC wallbox (Type 2). Meanwhile, plugging the vehicle into a 100-kW public DC fast charger (CCS) for 30 minutes will see the battery hit an 80% state of charge (9 km/per minute).

With a full charge, an all-electric of more than 300 km is claimed under the WLTP, or 450 km following the NEDC. In terms of performance, the DS3 Crossback E-Tense will accelerate from 0-50 km/h in 3.3 seconds and from 0-100 km/h in 8.7 seconds.

Styling-wise, there’s plenty to attract the eyeballs, starting with the curiously-shaped headlamp clusters that house the DS Matrix LED Vision system, which is made up of four LED modules. The familiar DS grille is also flanked by vertical LED daytime running lights that end at a thin chrome strip separating the lower apron.

Along the sides, you’ll find strong creases, flush door handles and a “fin” near the B-pillars as seen on the regular DS3. There are ten wheel types, ten body colours, three roof colours and six DS Inspiration themes to choose from, with options for the last bit being Montmartre, Bastille, Performance Line, Rivoli, Opera and the limited launch edition, La Première.

As for the rear, a pair of slim taillights connected by more chrome trim resemble the approach on the DS7 Crossback. Faux outlets in the bumper corners invoke a sense of width, with other items being a roof spoiler and chrome surrounds for the reflectors/fog lamps. For those curious about the dimensions of the compact SUV, it measures 4,118 mm long, 1,791 mm wide and 1,534 mm tall, with a wheelbase spanning 2,558 mm.

Moving inside, the theatrics continue with a bevy of diamond-shaped cues, including on the dash inlay, door panels, seat side bolsters, centre air-con vents and even the switchgear for the infotainment system and climate control system. The centre console, is similar to that in the DS7 Crossback, right down to the gear selector lever and accompanying switches.

That big screen in the centre of the dash is a 10.3-inch display that comes with the usual navigation and smartphone connectivity functions. A digital display instrument cluster is also present and configurable, as well as a heads-up display that projects driving information in full colour onto a transparent panel in front of the driver.

Available equipment for the DS3 Crossback include a Level 2 autonomous driving system called DS Drive Assist, DS Park Pilot, and wireless telematics through the MyDS app. There’s also a range of safety features like eight airbags, lane keeping assist and Active Safety Brake – essentially an autonomous braking system.

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