The DS 7 Crossback 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic, produced from November 2017 to January 2020, represents a key entry point into the DS Automobiles lineup. Positioned as a compact luxury SUV, this variant utilized a 1.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It was designed to offer a balance of fuel efficiency, comfortable driving dynamics, and a premium experience within the broader DS 7 Crossback range, which also included more powerful gasoline and diesel options. The DS 7 Crossback itself was a significant model for the DS brand, representing a move towards establishing a distinct identity separate from its parent company, Citroën, and competing with established premium SUV offerings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DS |
| Model | 7 |
| Generation | 7 Crossback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 BlueHDi (130 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2017 |
| End of production | January, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7-3.8 l/100 km (63.6 – 61.9 US mpg, 76.3 – 74.3 UK mpg, 27 – 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9-4.0 l/100 km (60.3 – 58.8 US mpg, 72.4 – 70.6 UK mpg, 25.6 – 25 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 103-105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d – TEMP |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 91 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 210.1 Nm/tonne |
| 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 84.8 mm (3.34 in.) |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1428-1627 kg (3148.2 – 3586.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2050 kg (4519.48 lbs.) |
| Max load | 423-622 kg (932.56 – 1371.28 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 555 l (19.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 64 kg (141.1 lbs.) |
| Length | 4573 mm (180.04 in.) |
| Width | 1906 mm (75.04 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2098 mm (82.6 in.) |
| Height | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2738 mm (107.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1621 mm (63.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 925 mm (36.42 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| 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 brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/65 R17; 235/55 R18; 235/50 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | 17; 18; 19 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the DS 7 Crossback 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic is the YHZ DV5RC engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of the PSA Group’s (now Stellantis) BlueHDi family, known for its focus on reducing emissions through advanced aftertreatment systems. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a common-rail direct injection system, allowing for precise fuel metering and optimized combustion. The engine produces 130 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 1750 rpm. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth shifting and contribution to fuel economy. This transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, optimizing both acceleration and cruising efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. The eight-speed automatic transmission contributes to smooth gear changes, and the relatively low weight of the engine compared to larger diesel options helps maintain a balanced feel. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.3 seconds, which is competitive within its segment but noticeably slower than the more powerful gasoline or diesel variants of the DS 7 Crossback. The transmission’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, meaning it will upshift quickly to maintain lower engine speeds. This can sometimes result in a slight hesitation when requesting sudden acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 7 Crossback 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades available. Higher trim levels added features like a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and adaptive cruise control. The overall interior design emphasized a luxurious feel, with attention paid to material quality and detailing.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 7 Crossback utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with Electronic Stability Control. The steering is electric power-assisted, offering a light and precise feel. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 7 Crossback 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, refined interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, particularly when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to the more powerful DS 7 variants, such as the 180 hp diesel or the gasoline models, the 1.5 BlueHDi offered a more affordable entry point into the DS 7 range, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and comfort over outright performance. Its fuel economy figures of around 3.9-4.0 l/100 km (60.3-58.8 US mpg) were a significant selling point.
Legacy
The 1.5 BlueHDi engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain, although, like all diesel engines, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and adherence to recommended service intervals. The eight-speed Aisin automatic transmission is also known for its durability. On the used car market, the DS 7 Crossback 1.5 BlueHDi Automatic represents a good value proposition, offering a luxurious and well-equipped SUV at a competitive price. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for diesel particulate filter (DPF) issues, particularly if the vehicle has primarily been used for short journeys. Overall, this variant remains a viable option for those seeking a comfortable, efficient, and stylish compact SUV.
