Meet the new DS 3 Crossback E-Tense
Meet the new DS 3 Crossback E-Tense
DS joins the electric evolution with their first all-electric vehicle, the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense. This is the first premium electric SUV to enter the competitive and crowded compact SUV segment, but what does that mean for drivers?
The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense has been designed to be a dedicated electric car, which is great news for drivers who don’t want to compromise on space when trying to be more environmentally friendly. Boot space of 350 litres and a spacious interior is standard across the DS 3 range.
At a quick glance, the new exterior is striking, stylish and unique, with shark fins on either rear side, a series of sharp creases and flush-fitting door handles that give it a sleek and sporty look.
You’ll also notice a stylish diamond theme throughout the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense. The bold diamond grille and the pattern of diamond switches on the centre console echo the brand’s logo and offer a feeling of luxury. Get behind the wheel and the cabin feels like you’re in a lavish lounge, and if you go for the top trim, the dashboard comes draped in Nappa leather.
The interior features have been designed with the driver in mind, including an easily accessible infotainment system with a 7-inch touchscreen on entry level models, which can be upgraded to a 12-inch screen. DS has also cleverly added GPS that suggests routes with charge points along the way.
For anyone looking to buy an electric car, charge time and range are two of the most important considerations, so how does it fare? The E-Tense is kitted out with a 100kW electric motor and 50kWh battery, so in terms of range, you get roughly 200 miles when the car’s fully charged.
As with all electric cars, charge time depends on the power source. The quickest charge time of 30 minutes is from a 100kW supply which will give you 80% charge. If you’re recharging the battery to 100% via a 7kW home wallbox, it will take seven hours and 30 minutes.
This car is quick to start and the instant delivery of power will give drivers an intense feeling when putting their foot down. The E-Tense is capable of 0-62 miles in 8.7 seconds and has a top speed of 93mph. As well as being quick off the mark, it’s also a quiet and comfortable drive, thanks to an acoustic windscreen which helps reduce noise.
Part of the DS style philosophy is the art of personalisation, and the new DS 3 Crossback E-Tense definitely delivers. There are a huge range of options that give drivers the freedom to style the car to their taste, including ten body colours and wheel styles and three roof colours.
If you need some design inspiration, there are also five interior packs to choose from that give you the option to customise the seat fabric, dashboard trim and colour of the headlining. The most lavish of the packs is the DS Inspiration Opera which comes with Nappa leather and ‘watch strap’ seats.
