Stellantis’ DS brand* has advanced their DS7 model with a makeover that is more than just a mid life-cycle restyling.
This major update enhances its hybrid technology that combines the same mechanical configuration as the DS 9 E-Tense 360 with a 200 hp 1.6 internal combustion gas engine with a 110 hp electric motor located in the transmission for the front wheels and a second 113 hp electric motor to power the rear.
Along with the drivetrain comes a refined chassis (lowered by 15 mm), widened front and rear tracks, large 21-inch rims and a re-calibration of the steering to increase precision and response – making it apt to challenge well handling rivals like the Audi Q5 and Volvo XC60.
With a spacious and comfortable interior and up-to-date technologically, this French alternative sports an impressive new light signature, enlarged grille and slightly revised structure of its trunk lid.
Battery power has been slightly revised to offer better efficiency by gaining 1 kWh of payload.
Performance figures are impressive; 0 to 100 km/h in 5.6 seconds, acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h in 3.4 seconds) sports mode figures), and an uncanny means to devour twisty roads.
Those that have road tested it tout the astounding handling given it’s almost 1.9 tons weight, though reservations are mentioned about the battery power to internal combustion engine engagement when accelerating and that the brake pedal has a somewhat spongy consistency that is not always reassuring.
It is an admirable effort that comes with hefty price of nearly €80,000 with the La Première finish. Will the DS7 succeed going upscale? Sales will tell.
* The Stellantis DS brand, formerly a part of Citroën under PSA Group, was introduced in 2009 and been a standalone brand since 2015, (2012 in China).