Overview
The DS 3 E-Tense is a style-focused, premium compact electric crossover that brings a distinct touch of French luxury to a highly competitive segment. Positioned as a boutique alternative to more mainstream offerings from its shared Stellantis platform like the Jeep Avenger and Vauxhall Mokka Electric, it sets itself apart with premium craftsmanship and unique styling. Following a mid-life update, this premium small SUV gains a more efficient powertrain, an updated battery pack, and better on-board infotainment to compete more effectively with rivals such as the Renault Megane E-Tech and Volvo EX30.
Design
Emphasising a fashion-forward design, the exterior features an assertive front defined by a wide gloss-black grille and striking vertical LED daytime running lights that run down the front bumper. The silhouette retains the signature, shark-fin-shaped B-pillar that interrupts the window line, adding a dramatic touch to the sides. Flush-fitting door handles deploy automatically as you approach and retract into the bodywork when locked to optimize efficiency. The rear is modern and uncluttered, with slim LED tail-lights linked by a gloss-black strip, riding on specialized 17-inch or 18-inch aerodynamic diamond-cut alloy wheels.
Interior
The cabin features a high-end design heavily inspired by Parisian fashion and geometric diamond patterns. The dashboard layouts integrate diamond-shaped touch controls and intricate "Clous de Paris" embossed metal detailing, finished with premium Alcantara or Nappa leather upholstery on higher grades. Technology is centered around a clear 10.3-inch HD touchscreen running the responsive DS IRIS infotainment system, which features configurable widgets, natural voice recognition, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. A digital driver's display sits behind the steering wheel, and on top-tier trims, also with a clear head-up display projecting key metrics directly into the driver's line of sight.
Performance & Powertrains
The powertrain pairs a 54kWh battery with a front-mounted electric motor producing 154bhp. Acceleration from 0-62mph is achieved in a respectable 9.0 seconds, on its way to a top speed of 93mph. This compact SUV achieves a range of up to 250 miles, aided significantly in colder months by a standard heat pump. When traveling on longer journeys, the 100kW DC rapid charging capability allows a 10-80% top-up in 30 minutes. The driving dynamics are tuned primarily for urban comfort, delivering light, low-speed steering maneuvers and a comfortable ride around town, though it can feel more unsettled over high-speed motorway surfaces.
Practicality
Because the platform is shared with its hybrid counterpart, interior packaging matches that. The boot offers a standard load capacity of 350 litres, expanding to 1,050 litres when the 60/40 split rear seats are folded. Cabin storage includes 1.5-litre front door bins, dual front cupholders, and a central armrest compartment. Rear-seat accommodation remains cozy, offering adequate knee room for children or smaller adults, though the signature shark-fin B-pillar over the rear doors reduce light in the back row and introduce minor blind spots for the driver.
Buying
Pricing for the DS 3 E-Tense starts from £36,995, reflecting its upscale, premium positioning. The lineup begins with the well-appointed Pallas trim, moving up to the performance-styled Performance Line and the ultra-luxurious, range-topping Étoile edition at £39,395. Standard equipment across all versions is generous, providing built-in navigation, a parking camera, and safety driver aids out of the box. The EV Hub recommended configuration is the entry-level Pallas trim. It delivers the maximum electric range by utilizing the smaller, more efficient 17-inch alloy wheels, includes the heat pump as standard, and provides the best overall value without paying a premium for cosmetic additions.