The DS 3 (facelift 2023) 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Automatic represents a refinement of the compact crossover offered by the French luxury brand DS Automobiles. Introduced in October 2023 and continuing through December 2024, this variant occupied a key position in the DS 3 lineup, bridging the gap between more economical engine options and the higher-performance petrol variants. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable power, and the convenience of an automatic transmission within the stylish and feature-rich DS 3 package. This model is part of the third generation of the DS 3, following the 2023 facelift which brought updated styling and technology to the platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DS |
| Model | 3 |
| Generation | 3 (facelift 2023) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 2023 |
| End of production | December, 2024 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 133 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Emission standard | Euro 6.4 |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 86.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | YHZ DV5RC |
| Engine displacement | 1499 cm3 (91.47 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 350 l (12.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1050 l (37.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 41 l (10.83 US gal | 9.02 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 15 l (3.96 US gal | 3.3 UK gal) |
| Length | 4118 mm (162.13 in.) |
| Width | 1791 mm (70.51 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1802 mm (70.94 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1988 mm (78.27 in.) |
| Height | 1534 mm (60.39 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2558 mm (100.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1557 mm (61.3 in.) |
| Front overhang | 860 mm (33.86 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 700 mm (27.56 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/55 R18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The DS 3 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Automatic is powered by the YHZ DV5RC engine, a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine falls under the PSA Group’s (now Stellantis) BlueHDi family, known for its focus on reducing particulate matter and NOx emissions. The engine utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine produces 130 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. This torque figure is a key characteristic of diesel engines, providing strong low-end pulling power. The engine also incorporates a particulate filter and utilizes an AdBlue system (Selective Catalytic Reduction) to further reduce harmful emissions, meeting the stringent Euro 6.4 standards.
The engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission is designed for smooth and efficient gear changes, contributing to both fuel economy and driving comfort. The automatic transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and driver input.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Automatic offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not a performance-oriented variant, the 130 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque provide adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The automatic transmission contributes to ease of use, particularly in urban environments. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic offers smoother transitions but may feel slightly less responsive. Against higher-output petrol versions of the DS 3, the diesel automatic trades outright speed for significantly improved fuel economy. The eight-speed transmission helps keep the engine within its optimal torque band, providing good in-gear acceleration. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over sporty performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 3 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Automatic was typically offered in mid-range trim levels, often including features like automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features including lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery generally consisted of cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring. The DS 3 aimed for a premium feel, with attention paid to interior materials and design.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 3 utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 3 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and efficient option within the DS 3 range. Its fuel economy was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel engines remained popular. Compared to the petrol-powered DS 3 variants, the diesel offered significantly better MPG, making it an attractive choice for high-mileage drivers. However, some reviewers noted that the diesel engine was slightly noisier than the petrol alternatives. The automatic transmission was praised for its smoothness, but some preferred the more engaging experience of the manual gearbox.
Legacy
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although, like all modern diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance, including AdBlue refills and DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) regeneration. On the used car market, the DS 3 1.5 BlueHDi 130 Automatic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a stylish and economical crossover. Its fuel efficiency and comfortable ride make it well-suited for both city driving and longer journeys. The longevity of the engine and transmission, combined with the DS 3’s distinctive design, contribute to its continued appeal in the used car market.
