New Brand Flagship
DS Automobiles has introduced the completely new N°7 model, which indicates the future development path of the brand. This compact crossover replaces the previous 7 model, which was the brand’s bestseller, and marks a key moment in its history.
Exterior and Design
The premium model follows the features of the N°8 and received a recognizable front end with V-shaped light blades and narrow PixelVision headlights. These headlights can detect other road users and adapt the light beam to avoid glare. They are complemented by a Luminascreen radiator grille and glossy black accents.
The side profile is characterized by a streamlined body and retractable door handles. Designers also endowed the crossover with a sloping roofline and elongated rear doors. They are accompanied by a panoramic glass roof, which has become 40% larger, and wheels up to 21 inches in diameter.
The dimensions of the new model are 4660 mm in length, 1900 mm in width, and 1630 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2790 mm. This means the length has increased by 70 mm and the wheelbase by 50 mm compared to its predecessor.
Minimalist and Technological Interior
The minimalist interior is dominated by a 10-inch digital instrument panel and a 16-inch multimedia system with support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. They are complemented by a head-up display and an X-shaped steering wheel, which is presented as the new “signature” of DS.
The interior also features a floating center console and a lever-like gear selector. The model offers upholstery in fabric, Alcantara, and Nappa leather, as well as trim in brushed aluminum or natural wood. Heated rear seats are available as an option, and the front seats can have ventilation, massage, and heating functions with a separate neck warmer. The list of equipment also includes an ambient lighting system, a digital rearview mirror, and an audio system with 6 or 14 speakers.
The manufacturer did not reveal the full list of equipment but announced that the model will receive the DS Drive Assist 2.0 system. This is a Level 2 semi-autonomous system that combines lane keeping and adaptive cruise control with a stop-and-go function. The crossover also has an automatic lane change function and a night vision system capable of detecting pedestrians, cyclists, and animals at a distance of up to 300 meters ahead of the car.
Electric and Hybrid Powertrains
The N°7 is built on the STLA Medium platform and will be offered with a range of powertrains. The fully electric N°7 E-TENSE lineup starts with a 73.7 kWh battery pack that powers a front electric motor with 227 hp. This configuration provides the crossover with a range of up to 337 miles according to the WLTP international cycle.
A long-range version is also available, equipped with a larger 97.2 kWh battery and an improved motor with 242 hp. In addition to extra power, the range increases to 460 miles.
At the top of the electric lineup is an all-wheel-drive long-range version with a combined output of 345 hp. Its maximum range is 422 miles.
All three electric powertrains have a boost function, and the top version can temporarily deliver 370 hp. This allows the dual-motor variant to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds.
For the electric versions, fast charging with a capacity of 160 kW is also available, which can charge the battery from 20% to 80% in approximately 30 minutes. The electric vehicles have a plug-and-charge function, as well as automatic battery preheating.
Hybrid Alternative
For those not ready to switch to an electric vehicle, a hybrid version is offered with a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder gasoline engine and a six-speed preselective gearbox with an integrated electric motor. This setup develops 143 hp and provides fuel consumption at the level of 5.4 l/100 km.
DS has already opened orders in France, where prices for the N°7 E-TENSE FWD ÉTOILE LIGNE BUSINESS model start from 64,200 euros.
The appearance of the DS N°7 clearly demonstrates the brand’s strategy of combining radical design with advanced, predominantly electric, technologies. The transition to the new STLA Medium platform opens up wide possibilities for modernization and the implementation of new solutions. The variety of offered powertrains is especially noteworthy, allowing the brand to cover different segments of buyers—from supporters of traditional hybrids to adherents of full electrification with an impressive range. The success of this model, which replaces the bestseller, will be critically important for the further positioning of DS as a premium automaker in the conditions of fierce competition in the European market.