It targets models like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, Mercedes GLC and Volvo XC60
Scheduled to debut at the Geneva Motor Show, the DS 7 Crossback is 4.57-meters long, 1.62-meters high, and 1.89 meters wide, which means it fits at the larger end of the C-segment.
It also boasts a generous cargo volume of 628 liters, but there's more than practicality about the DS 7 Crossback.
According to DS, the new model combines driving comfort, innovative technologies, and French craftsmanship. Styling highlights include the new diamond-effect grille sporting a redesigned DS emblem, horizontal chrome DS Wings, and jewel-like LED lights.
While some may say the DS 7 Crossback looks quite conservative on the outside, the interior gives a different impression.
Inside, the new SUV brings an avant-garde vibe, offering a choice of four DS Inspiration ambiances (Bastille, Rivoli, Opera, and Performance Line) and two 12-inch screens: one acting as the instrument panel and the other playing the role of the main infotainment screen. The French premium SUV also features a motorized watch by B.R.M placed on the dashboard, as featured on the DS E-Tense Concept.
The cabin is heavily influenced by haute-couture fashion, with materials such as the Nappa leather in watch-strap design, wood or Alcantara extending from the dashboard to the door panels and from the consoles to the seats.
Moving on to the mechanical part, the range-topping DS 7 Crossback is based on the EMP2 platform and features a plug-in hybrid drivetrain with a system power of 296 hp (300 PS) and AWD. A THP S&S 197 hp (200 PS) turbocharged gasoline engine is assisted by two electric motors (80 kW/109 PS each), and an all-new eight-speed Efficient Automatic Transmission (EAT8). Thanks to a 13kW/h lithium-ion battery positioned under the second row of seats, the DS 7 Crossback can cover an all-electric driving range of 37 miles (60 km). The DS 7 Crossback PHEV will arrive in spring 2019.
Until then, customers will be able to choose from five other powertrains: three gasoline units (THP 225 S&S EAT8, THP 180 S&S EAT8, PureTech 130 S&S 6-speed manual) and two diesels (BlueHDi 130 S&S six-speed manual/EAT8 and BlueHDi 180 EAT8).
The list of available technologies on the DS 7 Crossback includes the DS Active Scan Suspension which uses a camera to anticipate the road ahead and adapt the response of shock absorbers, DS Active LED Vision, DS Connected Pilot (semi-autonomous driving) and DS Driver Attention Assist.
The DS 7 Crossback will be built in Mulhouse (France) and Shenzhen (China).