DS3 Crossback Ushers in the Era of Boutique French Crossovers

The model has already been talked about on a number of occasions, and we're pleased to confirm that the rumors were true. The baby Crossback model will be available as a fully electric car, the French automaker confirmed.

The model is going to be called the DS3 Crossback E-Tense, and we think there's nothing on the market like it. The specs aren't particularly mind-blowing: a single motor producing 136 HP, 260 Nm (191 lb-ft) and a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery giving it a range of 300 kilometers per charge.

If the range were calculated based on the old NEDC cycle, it would read 450KM, so it's slightly better than the Zoe and Leaf. Of course, not everybody will want to plug their boutique French crossover.

For this reason, the DS3 will have a variety of efficient, quite small engines. Three gasoline options are planned - 100, 130 and 155 HP (presumably 1.2 and 1.6L turbo). Also, a diesel model will arrive in the form of a 1.5 BlueHDI with 100 HP. Clearly, the crazy DS3 Racing with over 200 HP won't have a successor here.

We'll reserve our full judgment of the design for now, but a few elements stand out. The DS3 Crossback is quite over-designed, even compared to the VW T-Roc. The front features insect-like LED headlights and a variety of metallic trim pieces.

The DS is also one of the first affordable cars to get flush door handles, like the Jaguar F-Type. The interior borrows switches and buttons from Peugeot, but also adds some unique touches. For example, the dashboard has diamond-shaped elements and can be trimmed in a variety of natural materials.

Like its big brother, the DS3 Crossback will have DS Drive Assist system which uses a radar and camera to provide adaptive cruise control and lane assist. The model also offers automatic emergency braking, automatic parking and app-based access.