A SPARKIER KIND OF DS 3 (some text hidden) --NONE--

By Jonathan Crouch

If you want a premium small SUV that's a little different and you happen to like the DS 3, then choose this Hybrid version, thinks Jonathan Crouch.

Ten Second Reviewword count: 44

In this improved Hybrid form, the DS 3 is a trendy little French SUV that might be worth a second look. This petrol/electric version is a good fit for the current market. And the variant that might at last drive DS 3 sales forward.

Backgroundword count: 130

You might have forgotten about the DS 3, the Gallic DS brand's smallest offering, a compact fashion-orientated small SUV. If so, then the French marque hopes that standardising this model's combustion offering around an improved version of the Stellantis Group's little three cylinder Hybrid engine might reawaken your interest. This powertrain arrived in the DS 3 line-up in 2024 in 136hp form, but now it's been tweaked to put out 145hp instead. It's still of the self charging sort can't be plugged in, but the battery will still solely power the car for much of the time in urban travel. Which could make this DS 3 Hybrid a cleverer choice in the range than the full-EV DS3 E-TENSE model. It's certainly a lot more affordable. Let's take a closer look.

Driving Experienceword count: 220

The Hybrid powertrain in use here sees a 145hp petrol engine with 230Nm of torque coupled with a clever six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that incorporates a 28hp electric motor. A 0.9kWh NMC lithium-ion battery powers the self-charging electric system. The petrol engine is a major evolution of the existing PureTech 130 unit, with special development for the Hybrid system. Using three-cylinders with 1,199cc, it works on the Miller cycle, which provides higher thermodynamic efficiency and, therefore, a significant reduction in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. The engine is also fitted with a special timing chain and a clever variable geometry turbocharger to maximise sustainability and responsiveness at low revs. The permanent magnet synchronous electric motor is integrated into the compact e-DCS6 six-speed dual-clutch transmission and can run on electric power alone at low speeds and under moderate loads. During deceleration, the electric motor acts as a generator to recover kinetic energy and fuel the 0.9kWh battery located under the floor. The system also easily provides power to start the petrol engine. The e-DCS6 gearbox contributes to the comfort and efficiency of this Hybrid model too. Limiting breaks in torque, it gives the feeling of a super smooth ride. The electric motor, inverter and computer are integrated in it to save space and mass. 0-62mph takes 9.2s en route to 126mph.

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