After discontinuing the DS4 and DS5, the premium niche division of PSA is focusing almost exclusively on crossovers. While the DS3 nameplate will be kept, the next-gen model is a high-rider too, as presented in these latest spyshots.
We've seen the DS3 Crossback before, but never got up close and personal with its chunky body. Thanks to the heavy camouflage, we really can't form a complete impression about its design, but it's undeniably sportier than other supermini crossovers from PSA, such as the Peugeot 2008.
Wide fenders and a long hood trick you into thinking that it's a hot hatch, even though most powertrains will have less than 150 horsepower. We suspect that the 1.5-liter diesel and 1.2-liter gasoline motors will be the core of the DS3 Crossback range. They should be available with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic.
All-wheel-drive? It's probably not going to be offered, as most French cars do without this feature. The prototype in these photos is clearly being powered by the front tires alone. A little further down the line, the DS3 should also become the first pure EV of the brand.
And unlike the current model, you won't be able to buy a 3-door or a convertible body. The market is demanding more practicality even from small cars. Legroom and cargo space will grow as a result.
Despite the efforts of the driver, our spy photographer was able to snap the interior as well. It clearly features a digital dash and a chunky tablet-style infotainment system which looks like the one in the C3 Aircross. The dashboard features five inter-connecting diamond shapes that include all the buttons and two air vents.
Being more expensive, the DS3 Crossback should offer better technology and features than its Citroen and Peugeot cousins. We thus expect to see adaptive dampers, full leather seats, and a 360-degree camera.
Wide fenders and a long hood trick you into thinking that it's a hot hatch, even though most powertrains will have less than 150 horsepower. We suspect that the 1.5-liter diesel and 1.2-liter gasoline motors will be the core of the DS3 Crossback range. They should be available with either a 6-speed manual or an automatic.
All-wheel-drive? It's probably not going to be offered, as most French cars do without this feature. The prototype in these photos is clearly being powered by the front tires alone. A little further down the line, the DS3 should also become the first pure EV of the brand.
And unlike the current model, you won't be able to buy a 3-door or a convertible body. The market is demanding more practicality even from small cars. Legroom and cargo space will grow as a result.
Despite the efforts of the driver, our spy photographer was able to snap the interior as well. It clearly features a digital dash and a chunky tablet-style infotainment system which looks like the one in the C3 Aircross. The dashboard features five inter-connecting diamond shapes that include all the buttons and two air vents.
Being more expensive, the DS3 Crossback should offer better technology and features than its Citroen and Peugeot cousins. We thus expect to see adaptive dampers, full leather seats, and a 360-degree camera.