The new DS 3 gets refreshed looks and tech, plus a revamped fully-electric model with a 250-mile range
- Improved 250-mile electric range
- Larger infotainment touchscreen
- On sale in France from €30,100
A new facelifted version of the DS 3 crossover has been announced. This new model is set to ditch the ‘Crossback’ suffix in favour of a refreshed exterior design, an upgraded infotainment system and an improved fully-electric ‘E-Tense’ variant.
UK pricing for the updated DS 3 is yet to be announced, but the facelifted car is now on sale in France from €30,100 (£27,829). DS split from Citroen in 2015 to become a standalone premium brand. The DS 3 is the French marque’s smallest model and is designed to compete with the likes of other small, premium SUVs and crossovers such as the Audi Q2, MINI Countryman and Lexus UX.
Perhaps the easiest way to identify a facelifted DS 3 is its revised front-end design; the new car gets a slightly larger mesh grille than before, as well as a different set of LED running lights – similar to those seen on the DS 4 and DS 7 Crossback.
The updated car also gets new alloy wheel designs, which are available in sizes measuring 17 and 18 inches in diameter. Buyers can specify the facelifted car in one of seven different colours, including the triple-layer Diva Red, which is making its debut on the new DS 3.
On the inside, the overall design of the cockpit is unchanged, however the new DS 3 boasts a larger 10.3-inch touchscreen. This is bolstered by another seven-inch driver information display behind the steering wheel and can be customised to the owner’s preferences via an array of widgets on the home screen.
As before, the DS 3 is available with two different petrol engines – the diesel model was recently discontinued. However, the big news is that the fully-electric variant, dubbed the E-Tense, has now received a larger 54kWh battery, as well as a more-powerful 154bhp electric motor. A heat pump is also fitted as standard, improving performance in colder climates.
Because of this, the electric DS 3 now has a range of around 250 miles – 38 miles more than the outgoing car. Charging speeds have improved too; the compact crossover now comes as standard with 100kW fast charging capability, allowing for a 10-80% top up in just 25 minutes when connected to a compatible public rapid charger.
DS remains tight-lipped regarding when the updated car will go on sale in the UK. However, the brand has stated that the new DS 3 will feature a streamlined trim level structure to “make customer understanding easier” – or, perhaps more likely, to take the strain off production as manufacturers continue to struggle with the semiconductor shortage.
Keyword: Facelifted DS 3 E-Tense SUV gets 250-mile range