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 300PS 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 (130PS 1.2-liter, 180PS 1.6-liter and 225PS 1.6-liter) and two diesel (130PS 1.5-liter and 180PS 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 225PS petrol engine with two electric motors for a combined 300PS. 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 60km). 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 130PS 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.