COVER DS 7 Crossback SUV
Wraps off new DS 7 Crossback, and we get first ride Premium SUV offers luxury cabin, plus range of autonomous functions
Stylish new Q5 rival unveiled, and we’ve been for a ride in it
THE covers have finally come off the new DS 7 Crossback, and Auto Express has been given a tour of the SUV ahead of its Geneva Motor Show debut. The brand has pulled out all the stops for its first SUV, which has a plug-in powertrain, unique suspension and various autonomous functions.
Since splitting from parent brand Citroen in 2015, DS has been saddled with an ageing line-up. However, with the DS 7 Crossback, the maker finally has a ‘bespoke’ model to take on premium cars such as the Audi Q5 and Range Rover Evoque.
Bosses are aware that DS can’t simply copy its rivals, though. Project director Xavier Savignon told us: “We’re not at the same level as premium rivals in terms of profile, so we have to do something different.”
As a result, it has tasked its designers and engineers with creating a model that delivers a distinctively Gallic take on luxury and refinement. Compact SUV proportions and simple surfacing both feature, with the Crossback offering a hint of Lexus in its design.
Detailing such as the chrome grille gives the car a premium appeal, while the Active LED headlamps emit a distinctive purple glow as you unlock the doors. The light show doesn’t end there, because at the rear you’ll find LEDS with a 3D pattern.
Inside, DS is once again keen to emphasise the car’s differences from more traditional models. “We want to be perfect, yet we want to be different,” said Savignon. “Comfort is also important, and we want the interior to be as relaxing as your living room.”
The Crossback gets the same ‘watchstrap’ finish and stitching for the leather seats as in the DS 3 and DS 5, along with five massage functions. Its dash includes a pair of 12-inch screens, with the layout crowned by a large analogue clock that pirouettes as the engine is fired. Buyers can choose four cabin themes, and while a sportier Performance Line version is also available, the focus will still be on comfort and refinement.
Underpinning the DS 7 Crossback is a stretched version of the EMP2 platform that has already appeared on various Peugeots and Citroens. The larger wheelbase results in good rear legroom, and while there’s no official info on capacity, the boot is well shaped and features a variable-height floor.
Also appearing in the DS 7 will be the E-TENSE plug-in hybrid system, which is slated to hit dealers in 2019. Combining a 197bhp 1.6-litre turbo with two electric motors, it’ll produce 296bhp and travel up to 37 miles in pure-electric mode. It should also emit less than 50g/km of CO2.
Until this version arrives, buyers have a choice of the familiar 128bhp 1.2-litre
“DS finally has a ‘bespoke’ model to take on premium cars such as Q5 and Evoque”
three-cylinder petrol, as well as two more powerful 1.6 THP cars. A pair of diesels will also be offered, with an eight-speed auto standard on all but the basic models.
The DS 7 doesn’t feature DS’S legendary hydro-pneumatic suspension, but the clever Active Scan system is equally innovative. Using a camera mounted in the windscreen, it reads the road and instructs the adaptive dampers to soften or stiffen depending on the conditions. Drivers can also select Sport, Normal or Comfort modes. In addition, the Crossback showcases the latest range of autonomous driving features. Its Connected Pilot system delivers adaptive cruise control and steering, while also helping navigate traffic jams without input from the driver. The DS 7 will hit UK showrooms next year.