You are reportedly looking at the 2019 DS3 Crossback subcompact crossover. The brand which originally started as Citroen’s premium lineup now presents the complete luxury brand of PSA Group. Aside from it’s more upscale from the rest of the lineup the DS is also intended for North America. The small DS3 SUV isn’t going to be the first vehicle from PSA’s luxury garage. No, the manufacturer has introduced the flagship DS7 Crossback already, as well as a high-riding copy of today’s C4 hatchback.
The subcompact footprint is a pretty logical move for the carmaker. The segment is among the most popular at the moment, so if the 2019 DS3 Crossback turns out to be as good as the flagships SUV, we are pretty sure that it’s going to make a huge success. The first spy shots don’t reveal much, but DS’s design language is so obvious here. The tiny SUV will just the other two models feature smooth and dynamic lines with interesting styling tweaks here and there. The front end will likely host the brand’s distinctive grille and a pair of aggressive LED headlights. Of course, the carmaker will add some chrome details to spice up the overall feeling. You can expect the same material around back as well. Plus, the rear bumper will host a dual exhaust pipe layout, most likely trapezoidal. DS will add standard LED treatment to the taillights too.
The French car manufacturer will offer four trim levels: Elegance, Performance Line, Prestige and Ultra Prestige. The entry-level DS3 Crossback will feature 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment, yet if you are ready to give some extra money, you can get a 12-inch touchscreen. The crossover gets standard leather treatment, though the trim level decides whether you will get Nappa or Alcantara covers. Massaging seats are also one of the options, while dual-zone climate control, keyless entry, height-adjustable front seats are standard features. But that’s not going to be everything from the car. No, the luxury high-riding subcompact will have USB connectivity and Bluetooth, as well as smartphone integration. Safety options like cruise control, lane departure warning, rear parking sensors are coming with every version of the 2019 DS3 Crossback. However, in case you want adaptive cruise control, a forward-facing camera with adaptive dampers, and rear lateral and curtain airbags, you will have to get the mid-ranged Performance model.
The luxury, attractive, and tech-rich crossover will have one flaw. The powertrains will be very limited to U.S. standards. The topper will, for instance, deliver up to 200 horsepower, which is not enough to beat the biggest rivals. Aside from the most potent 1.6-liter turbo, the DS3 Crossback SUV will also use a 1.2-liter unit with up to 130 hp, and a 1.5-liter unit. The carmaker will add a few diesel options with approximately the same capacity, as well as one all-electric version. The 2019 DS3 Crossback EV will use a 115-hp electric motor and a 50-kWh battery. According to the manufacturer, this will be enough for a driving range of around 450 kilometers on a single charging (300 miles), which is not a bad result at all.
The DS3 Crossback will be introduced in Europe before the end of 2018. The U.S. public will, on the other hand, have to wait until early 2019.
