DS 3 Updated for 2023 | First Look

Following on from the recently launched DS 4, the new DS 3 arrives with fresh looks, a bigger range (in the E-Tense) with the tech and re-designed cabin first seen on the DS 4. The DS 3 ditches the Crossback name and the line-up has been streamlined, launching with Bastille and Rivoli trim levels. Competition comes in the form of the fashion conscious Audi Q2, MINI Countryman, as well as the practical Volkswagen Taigo, Kia’s Niro EV and the Hyundai Kona Electric. 

The previous DS 3 E-Tense had up to 320 km from the 100kW/136hp motor and took around 30 minutes to get to 80% charge. The new 54kWh battery pack is paired with a 115kW electric motor and you now get an electric range of 402km on the WLTP cycle. It’s capable of 100kW charging meaning that it’s possible to get from 0 to 80 % charge in around 25 minutes. Slow charging using a home wallbox charger with an output of 11kW will fill the battery in five hours. Prices for the new 2023 DS 3 have yet to be confirmed, but are unlikely to differ too much from the current car, which starts from around €32,240 – or from around €43,362 for the DS 3 E-Tense. 

The aerodynamics have been tweaked so it’s more energy efficient and thanks to design changes to the front of the car, the flush-fitting door handles and narrow 17” and 18” wheels, these design changes should help improve the overall economy. Both the 17” and 18” alloy wheels feature more aerodynamic designs to boost efficiency. The E-Tense has its own specifically designed 18” ‘Toulouse’ style, which is a tall and narrow A+ rated tyre. 

While the highlight of the new DS 3 range is the E-Tense pure electric version, it will sit neatly alongside both petrol and diesel combustion engines. The two petrol engines will be three-cylinder, 1.2-litre and come with either a six-speed manual or eight-speed auto. The 1.5-litre diesel won’t be coming to Ireland however.

So up front, the DS 3 has gained a new front grille, as well as refreshed LED headlights and angular daytime running lights, to bring it in line with the current DS range. As well as the exterior styling changes, the DS 3’s interior has also had some revisions including a new infotainment system using the firm’s new DS Iris System through a bigger HD 10.3” central touchscreen. The layout of the controls for the infotainment system have also been updated and there’s a new steering wheel with an altered driving position. The digital instrument cluster is customisable depending on the driver’s preference, wireless smartphone mirroring is standard and the display can show 360-degree images from the external cameras.

To improve lighting at night there are new LED headlamps. The DS MATRIX LED VISION will be available as an option, this adjusts the light pattern from the headlights while the main beam is constantly on, so that the lights don’t dazzle oncoming drivers. Other safety features include DS Drive Assist, combining adaptive cruise control and Stop & Go taking the strain out of motorway driving and stop-start traffic.

As expected, the DS 3 offers luxurious interior colours and trims, including Nappa leather plus Alcantara and more mainstream cloth and leather-effect vinyl upholstery. The seats come with the class-leading comfort you’d expect from a French car and some great ‘watch strap’ designs. The news DS 3 will be available in Ireland early spring 2023 with full prices and specifications closer to the time.