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DS 7 — UK review

DS 7 Review (2025–)

Specs, Features, Pros & Verdict

DS Automobiles UK review Since 2025 By the True Motion Auto editorial team

Vehicle Overview

The 2025 DS 7 is a compact luxury SUV that combines French craftsmanship with advanced hybrid technology and bold styling. Previously known as the DS 7 Crossback, the updated DS 7 drops the “Crossback” moniker and adopts a sharper design, improved infotainment, and stronger plug-in hybrid performance. As DS Automobiles’ flagship SUV, it rivals premium models like the Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Volvo XC60, but with a distinctive French twist.

SegmentCompact Premium SUV
Body Style5-door SUV
Model Year2025
Trim LevelsBastille, Performance Line, Rivoli, Opera, La Première (E-TENSE)

Key Specifications

Petrol Version (Limited Availability)

Engine1.2L PureTech 130 (select markets)
Power130 hp
Torque230 Nm

Plug-in Hybrid (E-TENSE)

Variants

E-TENSE 225 (FWD)

E-TENSE 300 4x4 (AWD, dual motor)

E-TENSE 360 4x4 (performance version)

Power225–360 hp
TorqueUp to 520 Nm
Battery14.2 kWh
EV Range (WLTP)Up to 65 km (225), ~58 km (300/360)
Transmission8-speed automatic
DrivetrainFWD (225) or AWD (300, 360)

0–100 km/h

225: 8.9 sec

300: 5.9 sec

360: 5.6 sec

Dimensions

Length4,593 mm
Width1,895 mm
Height1,625 mm
Ground Clearance~190 mm

Boot

555L (ICE)

505L (PHEV)

Exterior Design

The 2025 DS 7 exudes modern elegance and visual drama

Frameless DS Wings grille with dynamic 3D effect

DS PIXEL LED Vision 3.0 headlights with laser-style light signature

Sequential turn signals, sculpted bonnet, and chrome accents

Redesigned rear LED taillights with 3D scales

Satin chrome or gloss black trim depending on trim level

Optional 20" alloy wheels and new colors like Saphir Blue and Lacquered Grey

The DS 7 turns heads with its blend of sophistication and innovation—without looking derivative.

Interior, Comfort & Materials

Step inside and the DS 7 impresses with its artisan-level detailing:

Hand-stitched Nappa leather upholstery (Opera trim)

Pearl-stitched dashboard with real wood or crystal accents

Massaging, ventilated front seats with heating and memory

Panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and electric tailgate

Rear seats offer generous legroom and optional heating

Fully digital cockpit with intuitive layout

A genuinely luxurious cabin that doesn’t try to copy the Germans—it does its own thing, elegantly.

Features & Infotainment

Cutting-edge tech is a central part of the DS 7 experience:

12-inch HD infotainment system with DS IRIS voice assistant

12.3-inch digital driver display with custom themes

Augmented Reality Head-Up Display (higher trims)

Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

DS Smart Touch control pad (gesture-based)

Optional FOCAL Electra 14-speaker audio system

USB-C charging front and rear, wireless phone charging

A premium user experience that’s smart, stylish, and smooth to operate.

Safety & Ratings

The DS 7 includes high-end safety and semi-autonomous capabilities:

Euro NCAP5-star rating (originally tested as Crossback)

Safety Features

DS Drive Assist (Level 2 semi-autonomy)

Adaptive Cruise Control with Lane Positioning

Traffic Sign Recognition

Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)

Night Vision (infrared camera detects pedestrians/animals)

360° parking camera and Park Assist

Blind Spot Monitoring, Rear Cross Traffic Alert

Safety is a standout, particularly with night vision and advanced cruise assist.

Driving Performance

The DS 7 delivers a refined and confidence-inspiring drive:

E-TENSE 225Balanced and efficient for everyday use
E-TENSE 300/360Dual-motor AWD grip with spirited acceleration

DS Active Scan Suspension (camera-guided adaptive dampers) ensures comfort over rough surfaces

Precise but comfort-oriented steering

Dynamic yet smooth—ideal for long-distance travel and urban sophistication

Ride quality and quietness are where DS shines the most—this SUV is a cruiser, not a bruiser.

Fuel Efficiency / EV Range

E-TENSE Plug-in Hybrid Models

WLTP Fuel ConsumptionAs low as 1.3 L/100km

CO₂ Emissions: 28–33 g/km

Electric Range

Up to 65 km (225)

~58 km (300, 360)

Real-World Electric Range~45–55 km

Charging

7.4 kW AC onboard charger = full charge in ~2 hours

A great PHEV for drivers who commute short distances daily.

Practicality & Everyday Usability

Boot Space

555L (petrol)

505L (hybrid)

60:40 folding rear seats

Flat load floor and wide opening

Hands-free tailgate operation

Spacious back seats, ISOFIX on outer rears

Large center console, hidden dash storage, deep door bins

Capable of family duties, business commuting, or road trips—without compromise.

Warranty & Maintenance

Warranty3 years / 100,000 km (extendable)
Battery Warranty (E-TENSE)8 years / 160,000 km

Service Intervals

Petrol/PHEVEvery 20,000 km or annually

DS Service Plans available with pick-up and drop-off options

Premium support, with EV-specific protections.

Price & Value for Money

Starting Price (Europe)

DS 7 E-TENSE 225From ~€44,500
DS 7 E-TENSE 300 4x4~€50,000

DS 7 E-TENSE 360 (La Première): ~€60,000

Government EV/PHEV incentives applicable

Better-equipped than German rivals at similar price points

Great for luxury value-seekers looking beyond the usual suspects.

Comparison with Rivals

ModelPowerEV RangeAWDPrice (From)Notable Strength
DS 7 E-TENSE 225225 hp65 kmNo€44,500Design & comfort value
Audi Q5 TFSI e299 hp62 kmYes€56,000German refinement + AWD
Volvo XC60 T6 Recharge350 hp78 kmYes€58,000Sustainability + safety
BMW X3 xDrive30e292 hp55 kmYes€59,000Driving dynamics

Pros & Cons

Pros

Stylish French design inside and out

Luxurious, quiet ride with excellent comfort

Competitive plug-in hybrid range

Advanced tech features like Night Vision and DS Iris

Great value compared to German luxury rivals

Cons

Smaller boot in hybrid versions

No full EV version (yet)

Infotainment has a slight learning curve

Resale value not yet on par with German brands

Overall Rating

4.4 / 5 stars

A refined, uniquely styled luxury SUV that blends comfort, tech, and efficiency into one of the most distinctive packages in the segment.

Final Verdict

The 2025 DS 7 is a standout choice for executives, upscale families, and hybrid buyers who want luxury and innovation without following the crowd. With its unique aesthetic, superb comfort, and clever technology, the DS 7 delivers premium motoring with French flair—especially in its E-TENSE 300 and 360 AWD forms.

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Pros & cons

Pros
  • Premium badge appeal and refined cabin ambience
  • Good fit for UK buyers who choose the right trim
  • Strong shortlist candidate when total costs are checked
Cons
  • Final value depends heavily on trim, options and finance price
  • Larger wheels can reduce ride comfort and raise tyre costs
  • Availability, standard equipment and pricing may vary during the year

Final verdict

True Motion Auto verdict

The DS 7 is a credible option in the UK market if it matches your priorities. The smartest approach is to decide what matters most - comfort, space, efficiency, performance, image or technology - then compare the exact trim against two or three rivals on the same route and the same finance basis. Choose the version that feels easiest to live with, not simply the one with the longest equipment list.

Buyer checkpoints

Buyer checkpointTrue Motion Auto view
Best forDrivers wanting premium materials, image and comfort.
Body styleCar
Powertrain focusPetrol, diesel or hybrid depending on model year and trim
UK ownership noteCheck insurance group, VED, charging or fuel costs and service-plan pricing before buying.
VerdictWorth shortlisting if its size, running costs and equipment match your daily use.

Frequently asked questions

Is the DS 7 good for UK roads?
Yes, provided the trim and wheel size suit your roads. Always test the car on rough urban surfaces as well as a faster road.
Should I buy new or used?
New can make sense with strong finance support and full warranty. Used can be better value if depreciation has already taken effect.
What should I check before ordering?
Check live UK pricing, standard equipment, insurance group, VED, servicing costs, delivery times and warranty terms.
Is it suitable for families?
That depends on rear-seat access, boot shape and child-seat fit. Test those items in person rather than relying only on figures.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.