DS 7 Crossback PHEV Review

What is it?

Let's get this out of the way early. From 2009 to 2015 DS effectively created luxury versions of Citroen models, but in 2015 DS was introduced as a separate brand in its own right with the goal of carving its own niche in the premium segment.

The DS 7 Crossback is a compact premium crossover, competing against the likes of the Audi Q3, BMW X1, Volvo XC40 and Jaguar E-Pace. Stiff competition.

What's engines can you get?

Our test car was the E-TENSE 225 - a plug in hybrid petrol with a combined power output of 225hp, mated to an 8 speed automatic gearbox, with a 0 to 100kmph time of 8.9 seconds, quoted fuel economy figures of 1.4 l/100km and an electric mode range of 50 to 58kms. There is also the option of a 1.5 diesel or a more powerful plug-in hybrid with 300hp and 4 wheel-drive.

Is it economical?

With the price of petrol climbing at an unforgiving rate you will want to get the most from the 13.2kWh battery. The quoted range of 50+kms is only really going to happen if you keep below 50km/h and in the milder months of the year. In my week of mixed summer driving I was getting closer to 40km, pretty typical of most plug-in hybrids. The quoted figures of 1.4l/100km are works of fiction but if you keep the battery charged and prompt it into hybrid mode when you know you are going on a longer journey you will achieve decent fuel economy figures. If you don't charge it or use the option to charge the battery from the engine scary fuel consumption will ensue.

What's it like to drive?

If I had to describe the drive in one word it would be "pleasant". Despite the healthy power figures the DS 7 never really encourages spirited driving and it really suits the car. You move off gently in electric mode, however you do notice when the petrol engine kicks in. It's not the smoothest transition. The suspension does a very good job of ironing out the rougher road surfaces, comfort is excellent. Just don't expect a sporty drive.

Steering is appropriately weighted too, you do get the choice of driving modes - sport is best avoided as it hangs on to gears a bit too long, normal is your best friend in the DS7.

What's it like inside?

The interior is the party piece of the DS7 Crossback. It is a special place to sit and the German competition feels a bit unadventurous by comparison. We had the Performance Line model on test, which included a 12 inch touchscreen, a digital dashboard and Alcantara on dash and door (a personal favourite of mine). I was not a fan of the centre mounted window switches, that caused a lot of confusion all week. Some things work for a reason, window switches on the door please. The sporty suede seats were very comfy with various electric adjustment and the DS7 had one of the quickest heating functions I've ever experienced. Ideal for a cold Irish morning. Space in the back is more than adequate and the boot measures in at 555 litres.

What does it cost?

The 1.5 diesel DS7 Crossback Performance Line starts at roughly €48,000 and climbs all the way to €66,000 for the E-TENSE 4x4 300. For comparison an entry level Audi Q3 starts at about €46,000. Given the level of competition in this market segment the DS7 is unlikely to be a big seller. At the end of July 2022 there were 56 sold here in Ireland. But if you like something a bit different with a flair that the German competitors can't match give the DS7 a look. We need more variety in the world.