Crossing over
PSA Group’s upmarket nameplate aims for some crossover action with the launch of the 7 Crossback model.
PSA Group’s DS 7 offers a plug-in hybrid in the guise of an SUV
The DS model line-up is really expanding … After establishing DS as the premium nameplate for the PSA Group — which also owns Citroen, Peugeot and, more recently, Opel — the French suits have decided to build a new range-topping model in the guise of an SUV.
The DS 7 Crossback joins the 3, 4 and 5 models in showrooms and has been inspired by the Divine DS and DS E-Tense concept cars in terms of design. One highlight is the 3D rear lights. Note how the wavy window line apes those on the Lexus NX and Toyota Harrier.
The 7 Crossback is built on PSA’s EMP2 platform and measures 4.57 metres in length, 1.89m in width and 1.62m in height. The five-seat 7 Crossback sits in between the BMW X3 and X1 in size.
Inside, the 7 Crossback features two 12-inch screens: one behind the steering wheel and the other on the centre fascia. The model’s upmarket intentions are underscored by fine materials and a 14-speaker sound system from Focal Electra, according to DS.
A novelty in the 7 Crossback is an active suspension system that can scan road surfaces ahead and adjust for enhanced comfort — a key asset in DS and Citroen cars of yore.
Nice. It definitely has a plug-in hybrid, right?
Yup, as semi-electric drivetrains are now on the rise. The plug-in hybrid combines a 1.6-litre petrol-turbo engine with two electric motors — one placed between the engine and transmission up front and another one at the rear axle to make it four-wheel drive — producing a combined 300hp. The lithium-ion battery pack is located beneath the rear seats and helps for a pure EV range of 50km.
This particular semi-electric drivetrain is not due until 2019. There will be four conventional engines that will be made available in right-hand-drive form with eight-speed automatic gearboxes in early 2018.
The two petrol heads use the same 1.6-litre turbo motor producing either 180hp or 225hp, while the 2.0-litre diesel-turbo units generate either 130hp or 180hp.
Could it be priced in the vicinity of the X1?
That could possibly be the strategy, if the Thai Citroen agent is interested in selling the DS 7 Crossback. By being positioned just above the 2.5-million-baht 5 model, the flagship DS could steal some attention from punters who find the Mini Countryman too pricey and a touch common (as a luxury car) on Thai roads.
However, sources are keen to point out that the major markets for the 7 Crossback would be China and Europe. The Countryman is set to go plug-in hybrid for the first time later this year.