DS 3 Crossback 2019 Review
Discover the stylish DS 3 Crossback's blend of luxury, comfort, and efficiency in the premium small SUV segment.
DS 3 Crossback 2019: Premium Compact Crossover Evaluated
The DS 3 Crossback arrived in 2019 as DS Automobiles’ bold entry into the fiercely contested small premium SUV market. Drawing from the brand’s Citroën heritage, this model emphasizes sophistication, innovative tech, and urban agility over outright sportiness. With its distinctive exterior and high-end cabin, it targets buyers seeking something beyond mainstream options like the Audi Q2 or MINI Countryman. This review delves into its design, performance, practicality, and value, based on extensive road testing.
Distinctive Exterior Styling and Build
From the outset, the DS 3 Crossback stands out with its angular, avant-garde lines. The front grille features a bold, three-dimensional pattern flanked by slim LED headlights—matrix units on higher trims that adapt dynamically to traffic. Flush door handles extend smoothly upon approach, enhancing aerodynamics and adding a premium touch. At 4.11 meters long, it’s compact yet assertive, with 17- to 18-inch wheels filling the arches for a planted stance.
Build quality feels solid, with tight panel gaps and a kerb weight around 1,205kg for petrol versions, aiding efficiency. Color options like premium metallics amplify its fashion-forward appeal, though some critics note the tall-boy proportions can make it look less athletic than sleeker rivals.
Luxurious and Tech-Rich Interior
Step inside, and the cabin justifies the premium pricing. Materials include soft leatherette, brushed metal accents, and intricate stitching, creating a boutique feel distinct from volume-brand competitors. The dashboard’s curved layout centers a 7-inch touchscreen for infotainment, flanked by haptic touch buttons for quick access to climate, nav, and media—intuitive after a short adjustment period.
Seating offers ample adjustment, with a small-diameter steering wheel providing a sporty grip. Visibility is good forward and to the sides, though the rearward view suffers from thick pillars. Standard kit across trims includes dual-zone climate, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, DAB radio, and parking sensors. Top specs add a 10-inch digital cluster and active safety like adaptive cruise.
- Key interior highlights: Customizable ambient lighting, Nappa leather options, and a ‘distributor’ gear selector unique to DS.
- Ergonomics: Excellent driving position, though rear space feels tight for adults on longer trips.
Engine Lineup and Performance Options
The 2019 DS 3 Crossback launched with efficient PSA-group powertrains. Petrol choices include the 1.2 PureTech in 100hp or 130hp forms, paired with a slick six-speed manual (entry levels) or eight-speed auto. The 130hp variant hits 0-62mph in 8.2 seconds, topping 129mph, with real-world economy around 41-50mpg.
Diesel fans get the 1.5 BlueHDi 100hp/130hp units, lauded for refinement and frugality—up to 60mpg combined. An electric E-Tense version followed soon after, promising 200+ mile range. All benefit from stop-start tech, though the petrol auto can feel hesitant in traffic.
| Engine | Power | 0-62mph | Economy (mpg) | CO2 (g/km) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.2 PureTech 100 | 100hp | 9.9s | 52.3 | 117 |
| 1.2 PureTech 130 | 130hp | 8.2s | 41.7 | 128 |
| 1.5 BlueHDi 130 | 130hp | 9.2s | 58.9 | 105 |
The diesel edges ahead for motorway efficiency, while petrol suits urban stop-go better.
Driving Dynamics: Comfort Over Thrills
On the road, the DS 3 Crossback prioritizes serenity. Its suspension—tuned with hydraulic dampers on some models—soaks up potholes and urban ridges with minimal cabin disturbance, outperforming firmer rivals like the MINI. Urban maneuvers are effortless, thanks to light steering and a tight turning circle.
Highway cruising impresses with low wind/tyre noise and stability, even at 70+mph. However, push it through corners, and the soft setup reveals limits: body roll is contained but evident, and steering lacks the precision of German alternatives. Acceleration over bumps can unsettle the chassis, pitching under hard braking. Three drive modes (Eco, Normal, Sport) adjust throttle and steering, but don’t transform its character.
Overall, it’s a relaxing daily driver, ideal for city-to-suburb commutes, scoring high on refinement but middling on engagement.
Practicality and Everyday Usability
Boot space measures 350 litres, expandable to 1,250 with seats folded—adequate for groceries but trailing class leaders like the Nissan Juke (422 litres). Rear legroom suits kids or short adults; the panoramic roof aids openness, but dark glazing can feel claustrophobic.
Family features include Isofix points, 40/60 split seats, and optional child packs. Towing capacity is modest at 450kg braked. For urban dwellers, it’s practical enough, though larger families may prefer roomier options.
Safety Features and Ratings
Standard active safety encompasses autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assist, speed sign recognition, and six airbags. Higher trims add blind-spot monitoring and adaptive cruise. Euro NCAP awarded four stars standard, upgradable to five with packs—solid but not class-leading.
- Strengths: Effective AEB, stable high-speed handling.
- Areas for improvement: Pedestrian detection scores.
Trims, Pricing, and Rivals Comparison
Pricing started around £25,000 for base PureTech 100, rising to £32,000+ for loaded Performance Line or Grand Chic. Rivalling the Audi Q2 (£28k+), MINI Countryman, and Volvo XC40, it undercuts some on kit but carries a DS badge premium.
| Rival | Starting Price | Boot Space (l) | Ride Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| DS 3 Crossback | £25,000 | 350 | Excellent |
| Audi Q2 | £28,000 | 405 | Good |
| MINI Countryman | £26,000 | 450 | Firm |
| Range Rover Evoque | £32,000 | 472 | Plush |
DS wins on style and value; rivals edge space and resale.
Road Test Impressions and Long-Term Appeal
Over varied routes, the BlueHDi 130 proved a standout: torquey pull, whisper-quiet cruising, and 50+mpg figures. The cabin’s tactility—rotary controls, quilted seats—elevates commutes. Weaknesses like notchy manuals (smoother in EAT8 auto) and limited rear visibility are forgivable for solo/couple use.
Used market values hold decently, with low-mile examples under £15,000 today. Maintenance follows PSA norms, with strong warranty options originally.
Pros and Cons Summary
- Pros: Eye-catching design, premium interior, superb ride comfort, efficient engines, generous standard kit.
- Cons: Tight rear space, average handling, four-star safety base, less badge prestige.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the DS 3 Crossback reliable?
Early models show average reliability per owner surveys, with petrols faring best. PSA engines are proven durable.
What’s the best engine choice?
The 1.5 BlueHDi for efficiency; PureTech 130 for balance.
How does it compare to the Peugeot 2008?
DS offers more luxury; Peugeot more space and value.
Is the electric version worth it?
E-Tense provides zero-emissions urban zip, but check range needs.
Running costs?
Low BIK for company cars, cheap insurance (groups 19-28), strong residuals.
References
- DS 3 Crossback (2019 – 2023) used car review — RAC Drive. 2023-01-01. https://www.rac.co.uk/drive/car-reviews/ds/3-crossback/3-crossback-2019-2023/
- Review: 2019 DS 3 Crossback — Goodwood Road & Racing. 2019-07-01. https://www.goodwood.com/grr/road/news/review-2019-ds-3-crossback/
- DS 3 Crossback Review — Green Car Guide. 2019-11-01. https://www.greencarguide.co.uk/car-reviews-and-road-tests/ds-3-crossback-review/
- New DS 3 Crossback 2019 review — Auto Express. 2019-10-01. https://www.autoexpress.co.uk/ds/3-crossback/106280/new-ds-3-crossback-2019-review
- DS 3 review – stylish small SUV — Carbuyer. 2023-01-01. https://www.carbuyer.co.uk/ds/3-crossback
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