What is the DS 3 Cabrio known for?

The DS 3 Cabrio is renowned for its distinctive retro design, blending stylish aesthetics with the practicality of a compact convertible, making it ideal for urban driving.

When was the DS 3 Cabrio originally launched?

The DS 3 Cabrio was initially launched in 2015, marking its entry into the compact convertible market.

How does the DS 3 Cabrio perform on B-roads?

The DS 3 Cabrio offers nimble handling on B-roads, providing a fun driving experience with impressive grip, despite not being classified as a sports car.

Is the DS 3 Cabrio an electric vehicle?

Yes, the DS 3 Cabrio has been reimagined as an electric vehicle, combining sustainability with its classic charm for eco-conscious drivers.

What are the running costs like for the DS 3 Cabrio?

Running costs for the DS 3 Cabrio are reasonable for an electric vehicle, with lower daily expenses compared to conventional petrol or diesel cars.

In-depth review

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) review

Item: DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018)
Rating: 3.6
Author: Motoring Today Editorial

Motoring Today Editorial · Updated 25 Jul 2026 · 8 min read· 2015–2018

View gallery (15)

The DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) is sold in the UK between 2015 and 2018. Engine choices cover petrol and diesel power, with manual and automatic gearboxes. Bodystyles run to 5 seats and 2 doors. This review covers what the DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) is like to drive and live with, running costs, common faults and reliability, and what to check before you buy a used one. Our reviewers score it 3.6 out of 5 overall.

The DS 3 Cabrio is a compelling choice for those seeking a stylish and versatile compact convertible. With its retro-inspired design, modern features, and electric options, it stands out in a crowded market. Whether you're navigating urban streets or exploring scenic routes, this vehicle promises an enjoyable driving experience. It is highly recommended for buyers who value aesthetics, quality, and eco-friendly options.

At a glance

hp · Power

162

miles · Range / tank

550

0–60 mph

7.3s

Running costs

££

Typical finance

From £317/mo

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

Stylish and distinctive retro design
Enjoyable open-top driving experience
Good range of engine options, including electric

Consider alternatives if

Rear seating can feel cramped for taller passengers
Boot space is limited compared to competitors
Electric variant may have a higher initial cost

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£317/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £1,900 deposit

Best suited for

Company Car Drivers
Petrol/Diesel Buyers
High Mileage Drivers
Families

Affordability

Very affordable

Great fit for most budgets.

Theo's AI summary

Best match for

Performance enthusiasts
Practical families
Budget-conscious buyers

Estimated ownership costs

Based on 10,000 miles per year

Fuel

£117/month

Insurance

£124/month

Road Tax

£13/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£314/month

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DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) interior and driving experience

Precision and responsiveness define the handling of the DS 3 Cabrio, allowing drivers to navigate winding roads and tight corners with ease. The steering feels engaging and communicative, fostering a direct connection between the driver, the road, and the car’s dynamic capabiliti

Verified spec data

Specifications

Performance

Power

80–207 bhp

0–60 mph

6.3 s

Fastest in range

Top speed

143 mph

Engine

1,199–1,598 cc

Economy & running

Fuel economy

39.1–83.0 mpg

WLTP combined

Miles per £

6.6 mpp

CO₂

87–129 g/km

Insurance group

10–39 of 50

Road tax

£0 - £190/yr

Standard VED

Dimensions & practicality

Length

3,948 mm

Width

1,715 mm

Height

1,483 mm

Wheelbase

2,452 mm

Kerb weight

1,090 kg

Seats

Doors

Euro NCAP safety

3/5 · 2017

Safety assist

29%

Figures span the 93 recorded trim variants (2015–2019). Exact figures vary by trim, options and model year — always confirm on the specific car's listing.

Check this 3 before you buy

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) for saleBrowse live UK stock MOT history checkFree DVSA MOT & advisories Car tax checkerCheck annual VED road tax ULEZ / CAZ checkerClean Air Zone compliance

External voices

What the experts say

Parkers

The DS 3 Cabrio impresses with its stylish design and customisation options. Owners praise its comfortable ride and decent practicality for a compact convertible. However, the small boot and limited rear space receive criticism, and engine performance can feel underwhelming compared to rivals.

Read full review

Autocar

AutoCar highlights the DS 3 Cabrio's bold styling and chic interior, which attract buyers looking for something distinctive. The soft-top mechanism is praised for ease of use, but the review notes that the rear visibility can be compromised, making parking a bit tricky.

Read full review

WhatCar

WhatCar spots the DS 3 Cabrio's stylish aesthetics and comfortable interior but flags concerns about its reliability and high running costs. The lack of practicality and a small boot are also marked as drawbacks, suggesting a review before purchase.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Financing options are readily available, making it easier for prospective owners to acquire the DS 3 Cabrio. The model retains reasonable resale value, ensuring that financing commitments remain manageable over time.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the DS 3 Cabrio are relatively reasonable for a vehicle in its class. When budgeted correctly, this petite convertible offers a good balance between performance and efficiency, ensuring that drivers can enjoy its dynamic attributes without excessive financial strain.

Charging & fuel

For those opting for the electric variant, charging costs vary depending on the type of charger used and local electricity rates. For petrol variants, fuel consumption is competitive, aligning with compact car standards, ensuring drivers spend less time at the pump and more time enjoying their ride.

Heritage

Milestones & history

2015
Introduction of the DS 3 Cabrio
2016
Launch of the revamped engine options
2018
End of production for the DS 3 Cabrio

Read full launch story

The DS 3 Cabrio was designed to provide a harmonious blend of classic styling and modern functionality, appealing to both nostalgic and contemporary drivers. Its evolution highlights the shift towards more sustainable driving options, aligning with the overall automotive industry's transition to electric vehicles while retaining the iconic charm of the original DS lineage.

Compare with alternatives

Overall, the DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) offers a stylish and unique alternative in the supermini class, standing out with its design and customization but facing stiff competition from rivals known for their practicality and driving dynamics.

Mini Mini Hatchback

Reference only

A stylish and premium offering in the supermini market, known for fun driving dynamics.

vs features: The Mini offers a sportier driving experience compared to the DS 3, with a more engaging handling characteristic. While it also features high-quality materials and advanced tech options, some may find the DS 3 slightly more luxurious in its design.
vs price: Typically, the Mini Hatchback is more expensive than the DS 3, especially concerning higher trims and options.

No Motoring Today review

Ford Ford Fiesta

Reference only

A value-driven and popular choice in the small car segment, known for practicality and fun driving.

vs features: The Ford Fiesta tends to excel in driving dynamics and handling, offering a more connected feel compared to the DS 3. In terms of tech, both cars are competitive, but the Fiesta may have more basic interior materials.
vs price: The Fiesta is generally priced slightly lower than the DS 3, especially for entry-level models, appealing to budget-conscious buyers.

No Motoring Today review

Volkswagen Volkswagen Polo

Reference only

Perceived as a high-quality and practical choice in the supermini segment, with a strong brand reputation.

vs features: The Polo usually offers a more refined ride and cabin quality than the DS 3, with excellent tech interfaces. However, the DS 3 may feel more distinct in styling and personalization options.
vs price: Pricing for the Polo is comparable to the DS 3, but entry-level models tend to start at a slightly higher price point.

No Motoring Today review

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Gallery

(15)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 1 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 2 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 4 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 5 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 7 (boot)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 8 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 9 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 10 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 11 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 12 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 13 (exterior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) photo 15 (interior)

DS 3 Cabrio (2015 - 2018) trim & engine line-up

Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.

Trim	Fuel	Power	0–60	Economy	CO₂	Ins.	New price
Parthenon Cream PureTech 110 S&S EAT6 auto 3dAutomatic · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018	Petrol	108 bhp	9.6s	64 mpg	119 g/km	20	£19,945
Ines de la Fressange PureTech 110 S&S EAT6 auto 3dAutomatic · Front wheel drive · 2017–2018	Petrol	108 bhp	9.6s	61 mpg	105 g/km	22	£21,690
Parthenon Cream PureTech 82 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2017–2019	Petrol	80 bhp	11.9s	61 mpg	107 g/km	15	£17,145
1.6 THP (210bhp) Performance Black 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2018	Petrol	207 bhp	6.3s	52 mpg	125 g/km	36	£26,005
1.2 PureTech (130bhp) Elegance 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016	Petrol	128 bhp	8.6s	62 mpg	105 g/km	21	£17,195
Performance Line BlueHDi 120 S&S 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2017	Diesel	118 bhp	9s	78 mpg	94 g/km	24	£19,435
Performance Line PureTech 110 S&S 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2018	Petrol	108 bhp	9.3s	65 mpg	100 g/km	19	£18,805
Performance Line PureTech 110 S&S EAT6 auto 2dAutomatic · Front wheel drive · 2016–2018	Petrol	108 bhp	9.9s	61 mpg	126 g/km	22	£23,255
1.6 BlueHDi Chic 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2016–2017	Diesel	98 bhp	10.5s	83 mpg	87 g/km	21	£16,635
1.6 THP DSport 3dManual · Front wheel drive · 2015–2016	Petrol	162 bhp	7.3s	50 mpg	129 g/km	26	£19,095

Specs by trim

1.6 THP DStyle 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2016

Power: 162 bhp
0–60 mph: 7.3 s
Top speed: 135 mph
Torque: 240 Nm
Economy: 50 mpg
Range: 550 mi
CO₂: 129 g/km
Insurance group: 28
Road tax: £160
New price: £18,995

1.2 PureTech (110bhp) DStyle 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2016

Power: 108 bhp
0–60 mph: 9.3 s
Top speed: 118 mph
Torque: 205 Nm
Economy: 62 mpg
Range: 682 mi
CO₂: 104 g/km
Insurance group: 20
Road tax: £20
New price: £17,995

1.2 PureTech (110bhp) DStyle 2d EAT6Petrol Automatic · 2015–2016

Power: 108 bhp
Top speed: 117 mph
Torque: 205 Nm
Economy: 57 mpg
Range: 627 mi
CO₂: 112 g/km
Insurance group: 20
Road tax: £35
New price: £19,495

1.6 BlueHDi DStyle 2dDiesel Manual · 2015–2016

Power: 98 bhp
0–60 mph: 10.5 s
Top speed: 117 mph
Torque: 254 Nm
Economy: 80 mpg
Range: 844 mi
CO₂: 92 g/km
Insurance group: 23
Road tax: £0
New price: £18,595

1.2 PureTech DSign 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2016

Power: 80 bhp
0–60 mph: 11.9 s
Top speed: 108 mph
Torque: 118 Nm
Economy: 57 mpg
Range: 627 mi
CO₂: 112 g/km
Insurance group: 12
Road tax: £35
New price: £15,295

1.2 PureTech (110bhp) DStyle Nav 2dPetrol Manual · 2015–2016

Power: 108 bhp
0–60 mph: 9.3 s
Top speed: 118 mph
Torque: 205 Nm
Economy: 62 mpg
Range: 682 mi
CO₂: 104 g/km
Insurance group: 20
Road tax: £20
New price: £18,995

+ 28 more trim variants

FAQs

What is the DS 3 Cabrio known for?: The DS 3 Cabrio is renowned for its distinctive retro design, blending stylish aesthetics with the practicality of a compact convertible, making it ideal for urban driving.
When was the DS 3 Cabrio originally launched?: The DS 3 Cabrio was initially launched in 2015, marking its entry into the compact convertible market.
How does the DS 3 Cabrio perform on B-roads?: The DS 3 Cabrio offers nimble handling on B-roads, providing a fun driving experience with impressive grip, despite not being classified as a sports car.
Is the DS 3 Cabrio an electric vehicle?: Yes, the DS 3 Cabrio has been reimagined as an electric vehicle, combining sustainability with its classic charm for eco-conscious drivers.
What are the running costs like for the DS 3 Cabrio?: Running costs for the DS 3 Cabrio are reasonable for an electric vehicle, with lower daily expenses compared to conventional petrol or diesel cars.