Sparks won’t fly
DS adds electricity to the list of dull powertrains inside its stylish but uninspiring entry-level crossover
Considering that DS Automobiles is marketed as the cutting edge of French technology and luxury, it’s had precious little to show for it in the way of BEVs (battery electric vehicles) since the first bespoke DS model came along in 2017.
Now, however, that’s set to change with the introduction of the all-electric E-Tense version of the DS 3 Crossback. It’s the first step to the French manufacturer switching to an entirely BEV or PHEV range of models from 2025.
A compact crossover, the E-Tense shares its CMP platform and powertrain with the recently launched Peugeot 208 and Vauxhall Corsa superminis, as well as their electric equivalents. The group-wide PSA strategy is for every new model to have underpinnings designed from the off to cope with every powertain it will be offered with. Consequently, there’s none of the awkward practicality drawbacks we’ve often seen from earlier electric cars where the lithium-ion batteries have been shoehorned in. The chic cabin, the boot capacity and the weight distribution aren’t adversely affected. In fact, the electric car’s weight is in a better place than the internal-combustion equivalents.
Headline figures include a 100kW motor (134bhp and 192lb ft of torque) and 50kWh battery, good for 0-62mph in 9.0 seconds and a top speed of 93mph. Range, meanwhile, is 200 miles on the WLTP cycle with an 80 per cent top-up taking around 30 minutes. All respectable figures, yet they (especially the range) don’t match up to the Hyundai Kona Electric – although neither does the E-Tense’s £32,350 price.
Like the ICE versions, the E-Tense won’t win any awards for its handling ability. Weighing 300kg more than a petrol DS3 Crossback, it feels leaden and slow to respond during fast direction changes, yet on the plus side it’s easy to drive and delivers all the real-world pace you’ll ever need.
Ride comfort and refinement also impress, with the E-Tense treated to thicker glass and door panels than its petrol and diesel siblings.
First verdict
The Hyundai Kona Electric/Kia e-Niro give you more range, but the E-Tense’s style and comfort are very appealing
+++ ++