The new DS7 Crossback is being launched in the UK as
the first new-generation model developed by DS Automobiles. The French company
wants a slice of the premium SUV market and the DS7 Crossback certainly looks
hungry enough to make it happen.
DS Automobiles’ first try in the SUV segment comes
packed with many impressive features, including a comfort-oriented active
suspension that uses a camera to scan the road ahead and adjust itself, a
semi-autonomous system, a premium interior with a pair of 12-inch widescreen
displays and a wide range of engine options topped off by a 300 PS plug-in
hybrid powertrain.
The cabin can be configured through a choice of four
interior ambiences, Bastille, Rivoli, Opera and Performance Line. DS says that
they were inspired by the world of Haute Couture when they chose the materials
and the little details of the interior of the DS7 Crossback and frankly, it
shows.
The engine range consists of three petrol engines
(130 PS 1.2-liter, 180 PS 1.6-liter and 225 PS 1.6-liter) and two diesel (130 PS
1.5-liter and 180 PS 2.0-liter). A new eight-speed automatic transmission claims
to improve fuel efficiency and is fully compatible with the autonomous
functions.
The range-topping plug-in hybrid combines the 225 PS
petrol engine with two electric motors for a combined 300 PS. Paired to a 13kWh
battery pack, the plug-in hybrid DS7 E-Tense is capable of an all-electric
range of up to 37 miles (around 60 km). DS says that this version will join the
range from mid-2019.
The DS Active Scan Suspension wants to offer the
best possible ride quality and comfort. A camera that’s mounted behind the
windscreen scans the road ahead and transmits data real-time to the system’s
ECU which then adjusts each wheel independently, allowing the DS7 Crossback to
offer “comfort at all times”.
UK prices kick off at £ 28,050 for the manual 130 PS
diesel DS7 Crossback. Those interested in the plug-in hybrid range-topping
version, DS Automobiles estimates that you’ll need around £ 50,000 when it
finally arrives in the market.
