The DS7 is the current pinnacle of the DS range and when stepping up close to the CROSSBACK in the flesh, you can certainly see why. An SUV as distinctive as any DS current or otherwise is always going to be a fine thing to behold and the CROSSBACK certainly doesn’t disappoint.
A new diamond shaped grille mesh with it’s DS badge proudly displayed in the centre dominates the front of the car whilst the central bulge running down the bonnet draws your attention. Clever front lights that seamlessly blend into the powerful front wings complement the 19″ ROMA alloys and complete the look whilst a sharp crease along the top of the wing runs across the high waistline before tapering off at the rear of the front door, resuming again near the rear and swooping around the beautiful rear wing and diamond lights.
And those front lights, just wow. Replicating the diamond pattern seen throughout the exterior and interior of the CROSSBACK, the DS ACTIVE LED VISION headlights come alive when the car is unlocked swivelling 180 degrees whilst emitting a purple light into the bargain. DS certainly want you to know that you’re about to experience something unique.
Take a moment to breath before stepping into an interior that is even more distinctive and unique with a DS Rivoli interior creating a distinctive feel to the cabin and further strengthens the idea that you’re about to drive something really rather special. An idea strengthened when you press the starter button and a B.R.M R180 Timepiece spins in it’s housing to reveals itself. Attention to detail is a step above the normal with, what DS call, crystal controls on the steering wheel and below the impressive 12″ HD touchscreen and ‘Clous de Paris’ embossed inserts running along both sides of the 8 speed automatic gearshift. If you’re in any doubt as to the DS 7s place in the SUV hierarchy then just spend a few minutes noting the quality of the controls and materials used as you interact with the technology therein.
It’s not often that you get to experience something as well put together and integrated as the DS 7 CROSSBACK, getting comfortable is simplicity itself with fully adjustable, electric, heated seats that also provide the option of enjoying a massage as you travel whilst the drivers eyes are treated to a fully customisable 12.3″ digital instrument cluster with scrollable information and SAT NAV display amongst a wealth of possible choices. But don’t forget there’s also the usual compliment of infotainment, comfort and driving aids included with this Prestige edition including a superb sounding DAB.
The 1499cc direct injection turbocharged diesel power-plant puts up to 131bhp down onto the road through a silky smooth 8-speed EAT gearbox at 3750rpm as well as torque figures of 300NM from nice and low down the rev range which combine to offer power aplenty for motorway and distance work as well as providing the necessary shove in the back when accelerating out from tighter corners and along these green and pleasant lands of ours. And that’s whilst delivering a ride of a quality that you would expect from a brand as famously idiosyncratic as DS. Smooth, controlled and balanced come to mind when discussing the ride quality despite experiencing a range of road surfaces from the best to the worst on offer and all whilst delivering up to a combined mpg of 55.3. Impressive indeed.
The price for all of this style, practicality and je nes se quois? Around £37825. Excellent value I reckon for something so distinctive amongst other SUVs.
Where will you go?
