The flush-mounted door handles glide silently out of the bodywork as the driver approaches the DS N°7. The press test drives around Nice with the 4.66-metre premium SUV mark an important milestone for the Paris-based brand. As the direct successor to the DS 7, the new model uses the Stellantis Group’s STLA Medium platform, developed primarily for battery-electric powertrains but also compatible with hybrid models.
DS officially positions the N°7 between the C and D segments. Strictly speaking, it is a compact SUV that has grown slightly beyond the usual dimensions of its segment. However, with high-quality materials and a clear focus on driving comfort, DS is deliberately targeting discerning premium customers in the mid-size segment. Visually, the SUV features an illuminated grille called the ‘DS Lumina Screen’ and vertical daytime running lights in the ‘DS Light Blade’ design.
Three E-TENSE versions with NMC cell chemistry
At launch, DS offers three electric powertrain variants, all using battery cells with nickel-manganese-cobalt (NMC) chemistry. The entry-level E-TENSE FWD features a synchronous electric motor on the front axle with an output of 169 kW (230 PS) and a temporary peak output of 191 kW (260 PS). A 73.7-kWh battery supplies the energy.
