As we learned in our interview series ‘5+1’ from Béatrice Foucher, CEO of DS Automobiles, Formula E plays an important role for the brand as “with the business committed to electrification, there is no place we’d rather strengthen our commitment.” DS Automobiles has been active in Formula E since 2015 and with the launch of the two E-TENSE models the brand underlines its pioneering role in terms of electric mobility.

DS Automobiles hits the market with its E-TENSE models: the all-electric DS 3 Crossback E-Tense and the plug-in hybrid DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4x4. The portfolio will be expanded to six models by 2023. Soon DS’ first sedan, the DS 9 will be available to order in Germany. In the course of 2021 the brand will launch the DS 4. From 2025 onwards, DS Automobiles will only offer electrified models (BEV & PHEV).

Recently we tested the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4x4 300. What is directly noticeable is the extravagant design not only in the exterior but also in the interior. One reason why the vehicle attracts attention in the road traffic. Besides, even though DS Automobiles exists since 2015, the brand is not yet so well known and thus people look after the car.

As already said, the design of the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense is quite extravagant and striking. It’s a matter of taste. If you are more into minimalism and a reduced design language, the DS 7 is not the first car you would go for. But if you're looking for a car with a special something and you have a weakness for French design, then the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense is definitely a car you should consider.

The grille is quite present, geometric shapes run through the entire design also in the rear lights. All in all the design is consistent in the exterior as well as interior. Everything is very detailed. The designers have completely followed through with the DS' own style.

DS uses the rhombus as a recurring style element. Unmistakeable – the designers have taken advantage of it. The angular shape can be found in the leather stitching, air vents and switch units. But they didn’t integrate too many switches as they focused on two displays. One behind the steering wheel displaying all relevant information regarding driving and the touchscreen in the centre of the dashboard serving as a display and control unit for the infotainment system and automatic climate control. Even though everything looks high-quality and DS placed particular emphasis on the choice of materials, of course not everyone’s taste will be satisfied with the fancy style. Points are deducted for using the Apple CarPlay. This is not possible wirelessly. For some people this is not worth talking about. However for us as music lovers, this function plays an important role and in a vehicle starting at a price of 51.000 € this should definitely be usable without an USB cable.

Inside, the car offers good comfort and enough space on the front as well as on the rear seats. Especially the massage function on the driver’s seat is not bad and ensures a relaxed ride. As the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4x4 is a plug-in hybrid, in addition to its petrol engine, it’s equipped with two electric motors. One at the front (81 kW/110 hp) and one at the rear (81 kW/110 hp). So together the E-TENSE 4x4 300 engine achieves 220 kW/300 hp and 520 Nm, managed by an 8-speed automatic transmission.
In the electric mode the top speed is 135 km/h. When driving with the combustion engine you reach a top speed of 240 km/h. The DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4x4 has five travel modes – electric, hybrid, comfort, sport and 4x4. We tested the sport mode on the motorway and we must say it was fun. DS claims a range of 54 km in pure electric mode (according to WLTP). However this depends on your driving mode, speed, number of passengers, additional devices such as heating or air conditioning.

Those who like extravagant design and are interested in a PHEV, will not be disappointed by the DS 7 Crossback E-Tense 4x4 300.

Pictures: Coralia Glavas for ellectric
Text: Britta Reineke