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The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is a striking example of French automotive innovation, blending luxury, cutting-edge technology, and environmental consciousness. As the fully electric variant of the DS 3 Crossback, the E-Tense represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the DS brand, which has its roots in Citroën—a company renowned for its pioneering spirit and revolutionary designs. Since its inception in 1955 with the launch of the original Citroën DS, known for its futuristic body and advanced engineering, DS has been synonymous with avant-garde design and technology. In 2014, Citroën spun off DS as a standalone premium brand, aiming to combine French luxury with innovative technology.
The DS 3 has always been a symbol of style and sophistication, initially launched as a compact hatchback and quickly gaining popularity for its distinctive design and premium features. The introduction of the DS 3 Crossback transformed it into a compact SUV with a bold and modern aesthetic. The transition to the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is a significant leap towards sustainable mobility, boasting a 100% electric powertrain with up to 248 miles of range, advanced regenerative braking, and numerous innovative technologies for enhanced driving comfort and efficiency. The exterior and interior updates, including the lighting signature, grille design, and infotainment system, further refine its appeal.
The Exterior Design
The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense boasts a front fascia that is nothing short of breathtaking. The bold, sculpted lines of the hood converge seamlessly into the distinctive DS Wings grille, which is adorned with a mesh pattern and flanked by sleek, narrow LED headlights that resemble a pair of high-tech eyes. The intricate details of the grille, combined with the chrome accents, create an impression of elegance and sophistication. The lower bumper features a prominent air intake and stylish fog lights, enhancing the car’s dynamic and confident stance. This striking front end not only commands attention but also sets the tone for the rest of the vehicle’s design.
The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense impresses with its fluid and aerodynamic silhouette along the sides. Sculpted body panels and distinctive character lines create a sense of motion, even when stationary. Flush door handles add modernity and sophistication, popping out when needed. Pronounced wheel arches house large, intricately designed alloy wheels, emphasizing its sporty and upscale appearance. At the rear, the design remains consistent with a sleek, well-proportioned tail end. Taillights featuring a 3D effect wrap around the sides, creating a visual connection with the side profile. Chrome accents and a stylish diffuser subtly integrate into the rear bumper, completing the look with refinement and class. The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense harmoniously blends elegance, innovation, and modernity, making it a standout in the compact SUV segment.
Interior Design & Build Quality
The interior of the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is a testament to French luxury and innovation, though it does come with its quirks. The front cabin is adorned with plush materials, including nappa leather and Alcantara, which create an upscale atmosphere. The dashboard features a unique diamond-pattern design, with touch-sensitive buttons that, while visually striking, can be less intuitive to use2. The 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system is central to the cabin, offering a range of functionalities, though some users find the interface a bit confusing and slow. The seats are comfortable and supportive, with ample adjustments for the driver and front passenger, ensuring a pleasant driving experience1. However, the placement of certain controls, like the window switches on the center console, might take some getting used to.
When you move to the rear of the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense, you notice its compact size limits practicality. Rear-seat passengers might find the space tight, especially taller people who struggle with headroom due to the sloping roofline. The dark headlining in some trims can also make the rear cabin feel cramped. Despite these drawbacks, the boot remains practical, offering 350 liters of storage, similar to other compact SUVs. You can fold down the rear seats to expand the cargo area. Overall, while the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense excels in style and front-seat comfort, its rear passenger space and some design choices might not appeal to everyone.
Performance & Range
The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense offers a balanced performance that caters to both urban and highway driving. Equipped with a 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor, it delivers a 0-62 mph time of around 9 seconds. While this may not match the blistering acceleration of a Tesla Model 3 Performance, which boasts a 0-60 mph time of just 2.9 seconds, the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense provides a smooth and quiet ride, ideal for city commutes. The handling is generally composed, though some reviewers have noted that the ride can be a bit firm over rough surfaces. Compared to the BYD Sealion 7, which offers a more dynamic driving experience with its powerful motor and advanced suspension, the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense focuses more on comfort and refinement.
When it comes to charging and range, the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense features a 54 kWh battery, providing a WLTP range of up to 250 miles. However, real-world driving conditions may see this range drop to around 220 miles. Charging the battery from 0 to 100% using a 7 kW home wallbox takes approximately 7 hours, while a 100 kW rapid charger can top up the battery from 10% to 80% in just 30 minutes. In contrast, Most Chinese cars these days come with a larger battery, offering a longer range. The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is hoping to strike a good balance between range and charging convenience, making it a practical choice for daily use but not a touring car.
Is the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense Practical for Morocco?
The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is a luxurious and well-crafted vehicle, but its practicality in the Moroccan market remains questionable. The country’s electric vehicle infrastructure is still in its infancy, with limited charging stations available outside of major urban centers. This makes range a critical issue, especially for those who may need to travel longer distances between cities.
Additionally, designers primarily intended the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense for urban driving; with its 320 km range and smaller size, it’s more suitable for city dwellers rather than those looking for a versatile, long-range vehicle for road trips. Moroccan consumers may also be looking for something more robust that can handle the varied terrains outside of the country’s major cities—an area where petrol and diesel SUVs continue to dominate.
Conclusion: A Stylish Luxury EV, But Not for Everyone
In conclusion, the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense is a stylish and luxurious compact SUV that offers a unique blend of French elegance and modern electric mobility. Its design, both inside and out, is a testament to DS’s commitment to craftsmanship and innovation. However, when it comes to performance and practicality, the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense falls short in some areas. The range, while adequate for daily commutes, is lower compared to competitors like the Tesla Model 3 and the BYD Sealion 7 offering more miles on a single charge. Additionally, the high price tag of the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense may deter city dwellers who are looking for a more affordable and practical electric vehicle.
For urban environments, the Renault 5 E-Tech presents a compelling alternative. With its lower price point and impressive range, the Renault 5 is better suited for city driving and offers a more practical solution for those who need a reliable and efficient electric vehicle4. While the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense excels in style and luxury, it may not be the best choice for those prioritizing range and affordability. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preferences and priorities, but it’s clear that the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense has some stiff competition in the ever-evolving electric vehicle market.
