The DS 7 Crossback 1.6 PureTech (225 Hp) E-TENSE Automatic is a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) produced by the French luxury automaker DS Automobiles between September 2020 and July 2022. Positioned as a mid-to-premium trim within the DS 7 Crossback range, it combined a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and all-electric driving capability. This variant played a key role in establishing DS Automobiles as a distinct brand focused on sophisticated technology and design, competing with other luxury compact SUVs in the European market and beyond. It’s built on the EMP2 platform, shared with other PSA Group (now Stellantis) vehicles like the Peugeot 3008 and Opel/Vauxhall Grandland X.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DS |
| Model | 7 |
| Generation | 7 Crossback |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 PureTech (225 Hp) E-TENSE Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2020 |
| End of production | July, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption at Low speed (WLTP) | 8.9-9.1 l/100 km (26.4 – 25.8 US mpg, 31.7 – 31 UK mpg, 11.2 – 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at Medium speed (WLTP) | 6.3-6.7 l/100 km (37.3 – 35.1 US mpg, 44.8 – 42.2 UK mpg, 15.9 – 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at high speed (WLTP) | 6.1-6.5 l/100 km (38.6 – 36.2 US mpg, 46.3 – 43.5 UK mpg, 16.4 – 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption at very high speed (WLTP) | 7.7-8.1 l/100 km (30.5 – 29 US mpg, 36.7 – 34.9 UK mpg, 13 – 12.3 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.4-1.6 l/100 km (168 – 147 US mpg, 201.8 – 176.6 UK mpg, 71.4 – 62.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 31-36 g/km |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 1.6-1.7 l/100 km (147 – 138.4 US mpg, 176.6 – 166.2 UK mpg, 62.5 – 58.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC, WLTP equivalent) | 36-38 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6.3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.8 kg/Hp, 127.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.5 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 13.2 kWh |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 55 km (34.18 mi) |
| Electric motor power | 110 Hp |
| Electric motor Torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| System power | 225 Hp |
| System torque | 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 180 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1760 kg (3880.14 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 555 l (19.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1752 l (61.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4573 mm (180.04 in.) |
| Width | 1906 mm (75.04 in.) |
| Height | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2738 mm (107.8 in.) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the DS 7 Crossback 1.6 PureTech E-TENSE lies the 5GG EP6FADTX engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine utilizing direct injection and twin-turbocharging. This engine produces 180 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque at 3000 rpm. The engine features a DOHC valvetrain and an intercooler to enhance performance. Coupled with this is an 110 horsepower electric motor, positioned between the engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission. The electric motor delivers 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. The combined system output is 225 horsepower and 360 Nm (265 lb-ft) of torque. The 13.2 kWh battery pack allows for an all-electric range of up to 55 kilometers (34 miles) under WLTP testing. The powertrain utilizes a sophisticated energy management system to seamlessly switch between electric, hybrid, and gasoline power modes.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 PureTech 225 E-TENSE Automatic offers a refined driving experience. In electric mode, the vehicle provides near-silent acceleration and responsive performance for urban driving. The electric motor’s instant torque contributes to brisk off-the-line acceleration. When the gasoline engine engages, the transition is generally smooth, although some drivers may notice a slight change in engine note. The 8-speed automatic transmission provides quick and precise gear changes, contributing to overall responsiveness. Compared to the standard 1.6 PureTech models without the electric assist, the E-TENSE variant offers improved acceleration (0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds) and significantly better fuel economy. While not as sporty as some competitors, the DS 7 Crossback prioritizes comfort and refinement. The steering is light and precise, and the suspension effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 7 Crossback 1.6 PureTech 225 E-TENSE Automatic typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a premium model. Standard features often included leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and massaging front seats. Trim levels varied by market, but generally offered increasing levels of luxury and technology.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 7 Crossback features an independent suspension system, with a McPherson strut setup at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The vehicle is equipped with ventilated discs on the front wheels (304x28mm) and solid discs on the rear wheels (290x12mm). An anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic stability control. The steering utilizes an electric power steering system for precise and responsive control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 7 Crossback 1.6 PureTech 225 E-TENSE Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. Reviewers praised its stylish design, comfortable interior, and efficient powertrain. The plug-in hybrid system was lauded for its ability to provide all-electric driving range for short commutes, while still offering the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer journeys. Compared to other PHEV SUVs in its class, the DS 7 Crossback offered a competitive level of performance and fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the infotainment system could be complex to use and that the price was relatively high compared to some rivals.
Legacy
The DS 7 Crossback 1.6 PureTech 225 E-TENSE Automatic represents an important step in DS Automobiles’ development as a standalone luxury brand. The powertrain, while relatively new at the time of its introduction, has proven to be generally reliable, although some owners have reported minor issues with the hybrid system components. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, reflecting their desirable features and relatively low mileage. The combination of a refined driving experience, stylish design, and efficient powertrain continues to appeal to buyers seeking a premium compact SUV.
