The plan of DS, and indeed the whole of PSA, is to offer electrified versions of each of its cars, rather than have bespoke electric models. Engines include 99bhp, 128bhp and a new 153bhp variant of the three-cylinder 1.2-litre Puretech petrol unit, with an eight-speed automatic gearbox offered.A four-cylinder 99bhp 1.5-litre diesel will also feature.
The EV uses a 50kWh lithium ion battery powered by a 134bhp electric motor (0-62mph in 8.7sec, with a top speed of 93mph) to provide a range of more than 186 miles on the WLTP test cycle (an exact figure has yet to be confirmed). On the now-outdated NEDC cycle, the range was 280 miles. An 80% recharge of battery capacity is possible within half an hour through 100kW rapid chargers. The batteries are stored in place of the fuel tank, under seats or within the centre tunnel to ensure cabin and luggage space is identical to the fossil-fuel versions.
The car’s styling was inspired by the DS 7 Crossback, while the shark-fin side pillars are a nod to the DS 3. DS design chief Thierry Métroz says that the 4118mm-long, 1791mm-wide and 1534mm-high DS 3 Crossback’s design has been optimised around the new CMP architecture. DS designers were involved in its gestation to give the car the best possible chance of design leadership in such a style-led segment. To that end, DS is hopeful of challenging at the top of the sector in terms of sales
The DS 3 Crossback is being pitched as a technology-rich model in its segment, with features such as flush-fitting door handles, matrix LED headlights and, unusually for any car let alone one of this size, no visible rubber between the side windows and bodywork. Much of the technology used, such as the active safety systems, is borrowed from the larger DS 7 Crossback. It includes an emergency braking system that can detect pedestrians at night. Premium features that have also made their way from the DS 7 Crossback include nappa leather and Alcantara interior trim options.
The aforementioned combustion engines will almost inevitably account for the bulk of 3 Crossback sales, but the launch of an electric model – DS’s first – will set the premium French brand on a path laid out by its parent company to become a builder of only electrified cars from 2025. The 3 Crossback EV will therefore be a pivotal model in the brand’s future growth plans.
Peugeot has demonstrated the effectiveness of launching SUV models; its strong sales growth represented more than two-thirds of PSA’s 2017 sales. DS’s more expensive products mean it is unlikely to challenge for the top spot, but executives will be hoping the 3 Crossback can turn the company’s recent sales downturn on its head.
Demand for DS models declined by a significant 38.5% last year, largely due to a heavy decrease in sales in the Chinese market.
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