We drove: DS 7 Crossback // French Prestige

It is important to know that Citroen took a different path for the new brand vehicles when they founded the DS brand. But then they meant, first of all, a more prestigious brand, not so different in design. However, the design principles for Citroen have changed significantly in recent years, so it is logical that they have changed even more for the DS brand.

If the French hunted with the first DS models a little more (well, in fact, the first DS, the C3, which for many is the best DS, is a striking exception), now they seem to have found the right amount of design extravagance. , prestige and technological innovation. What's more, with the DS 7 Crossback, they offer something more that will be especially appreciated by those buyers who do not want to drive conventional cars.

Ideas like this, such as creating a new brand, were actively pursued by many brands prior to Citroen. Mostly quite successful, so the idea seems reasonable, but recently, some attempts have not yet reached an understanding. They are still waiting for a breakthrough in Ford, a global brand known in Europe as a German brand, whose more expensive cars (which, by the way, also have a new brand, or at least a more prestigious sign). not as successful as you wanted with the parent brand.

Well, if Ford has too much similarity between regular models and models that are supposed to be shared under its own brand, then, as already mentioned, we cannot claim this in relation to the DS. The new DS 7 Crossback is something completely unique, one of a kind and actually brings to life the French idea of ​​offering a different car design featuring premium materials, precision workmanship and technological innovation. In doing so, they are committed to bringing together all their knowledge, technology and high standards.

Also in terms of design, the DS 7 Crossback is now much closer to crossover form than some of its siblings. The mask clearly indicates which brand the car belongs to, and at the same time indicates that this is not an entirely ordinary cheap car. The lines are stiff and shortened, even in proportion, the 4,57 meter car seems to be well balanced. As usual, the DS 7 Crossback also boasts a special light signature where the driver's full LED headlights greet the driver with a special purple color when unlocked.

The car impresses even more with its interior. Of course, first of all with the idea that the engineers did something different, something unusual. At the same time, this means that some people will immediately like it and others will not, but the DS 7 Crossback is not for the average buyer. The brand itself is also aware of this as they want to appeal to successful entrepreneurs, fashion enthusiasts or athletes with sophisticated tastes. Which of course means that it is not intended for ordinary families. Of course, this does not mean that the car does not meet the needs of the family.

But if we return to the interior, it features two large 12-inch screens and a huge center console with interesting design switches. The steering wheel is also different, but still feels good in the hand. We must not forget the seats, which are traditionally large, and take care of bodies of different sizes. Especially the front two, while the back can be a too flat bench that offers no lateral support at all.

Shoppers will be able to choose from five different interiors named after Paris landmarks. But it's not just the names, the French say that regardless of the chosen interior, they put a lot of effort and chose the highest quality materials.

The DS 7 Crossback will be available with three petrols (130-225 hp), two diesels (130 and 180 hp), and later with the new E-Tense hybrid engine. The assembly combines a 200 "horsepower" gasoline engine and two electric motors, one for each axle. Each of them offers 80 kW individually, for a total of 90 kW, and the total system power is about 300 "horsepower". Compared to most hybrids, the DS has a huge drivetrain advantage as it's not an endless drivetrain, but they also used the new eight-speed automatic that has already proven itself in the PSA group. Lithium-ion batteries (13 kWh) ensure that it will be possible to drive up to 60 kilometers on electricity alone. Charging from a regular home socket will take about 4 and a half hours, and fast charging (32A) will take two hours less. In addition to the aforementioned automatic transmission, the DS 7 Crossback will also be available in a six-speed manual with other engines. We didn't test it during short test drives as only more powerful versions with regular engines and automatic transmission were available.

Of course, DS is already flirting with automatic driving. Of course, the DS 7 Crossback does not yet provide this, but it does provide a number of already well-known technological innovations, including intelligent cruise control, emergency braking, automatic parking and, ultimately, an infrared camera for driving assistance in the dark. The electronically controlled comfort chassis provides a comfortable ride that, of course, some will like more and some less. The DS 7 Crossback will have all the multimedia capabilities, including connectivity and the state-of-the-art Focal sound system familiar from the new Peugeot.