DS is not easy to exist in this a gigantic set of brands that make up the Stellantis galaxy. Several models in the group are competing against each other, others are sharing difficult positions, some are looking for a look that is difficult for them to find. This is the case of DS which, despite the popular DS7 in its early days, is trying to reverse the trend. Last year, its sales fell by 8%, and the family SUV – by 41%! Its image of “French sophistication” is a hard sell in the face of “German seriousness and austerity” which drive its main competitors Mercedes-Benz, BMW and Audi.
DS3 is in turmoil
In France we know segment B (urban models) is the most popular.. Both city cars (Clio, 208, Sandero, C3) and crossovers (Captur, 2008, C3 Aircross). Therefore, it is quite natural that DS 3 should have taken first place in DS Automobiles (don’t say Crossback anymore). Well, no. Big brother DS 7 ahead, and even a compact DS4! However, given its size and more attractive price, the DS 3 logically should have won.
This technical relative of the Peugeot 2008 and Citroën C3 Aircross could also be significantly modernized during the 2022 facelift. DS went there very sparinglyand, apart from a new light signature and a larger touchscreen, it doesn’t have one almost unchanged since its launch in 2019. Today, DS offers a new update.
Available now for €30,000
The brand has simplified the range by removing the Performance Line + and Rivoli covers. Three versions are currently offered: Bastille, Performance Line and Opera, in addition to the limited edition Esprit de Voyage collection. A happy consequence: equipment distribution is reorganized and prices are falling. Count now €30,000 for the entry-level Bastille on Puretech 1.2-liter gasoline with a capacity of 130 horsepower. The same goes for the Opera trim, which loses the driver’s seat massage function, so its price drops by €750 to €39,450. No aesthetic or technical improvements have been madeawaiting arrival 136-horse mild hybrid unit in the coming months. After all, it’s a (very) timid change for this DS3 to believe that DS really doesn’t want to save his soldier…
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Source: Auto Plus
Robert is an experienced journalist who has been covering the automobile industry for over a decade. He has a deep understanding of the latest technologies and trends in the industry and is known for his thorough and in-depth reporting.