DS Automobiles will accelerate its model shift towards SUVs and EVs with the introduction of the new DS 3 Crossback, which will offer an electrified E-Tense drivetrain in mid-2019.

Built on the PSA Group’s ‘Common Modular Platform’ (CMP), and officially unveiled today, the new model will offer customers the choice of petrol, diesel or EV drivetrains without the need to compromise interior space.

Putting DS back at the head of the queue in terms of adopting the latest PSA Group technology, the range’s newcomer will also feature Matrix LED headlights and DS Park Assist and Drive Pilot, which introduce new levels of semi-autonomous driving into the range.

The DS 3 Crossback’s EV drivetrain combines a 50kW battery and 100kW (136PS) motor to deliver a claimed 186-mile range under the new WLTP vehicle test regime (280 miles in NEDC).

The Lithium Ion batteries can be charged to 80% of capacity in 30 minutes thanks to a 100kW fast-charge capability and charging will take five hours for a full charge via an 11kW ‘wallbox’ home charge point. 

DS claims that the zero-emission compact SUV will be capable of accelerating to 62mph in 8.7 seconds.

The other drivetrain options at launch will be a 155PS PureTech petrol engine mated to a new eight-speed automatic gearbox, along with a choice of 130PS or 100PS petrol engines

Completing the engine line-up will be a 1.5-litre BlueHDi 100PS diesel engine.

At 4.12m the DS 3 Crossback is shorter even than an Audi Q2 and will feature a number of style-led features to lure younger customers.

Flush-fitting door handles emerge from the four doors when the car senses the approaching keyless entry fob or is unlocked via a smartphone app, for example, while the colour scheme sticks to the familiar contrasting roof and body hues pioneered by the DS 3 hatchback.

Personalisation will also continue to be a theme of the DS brand’s offering, with a choice of 10 wheel themes and body colours to choose from and three roof colours.

‘DS Inspiration’ trims, meanwhile, will offer DS Matmartre, DS Bastille, DS Performance Line, DS Rivoli and DS Opera choices and, initially, the option of a La Première limited edition.