In-depth review

DS 3 SUV (2022 onwards) review

Motoring Today Editorial · Updated 24 Jul 2026 · 7 min read· 2022–onwards

The DS 3 SUV is back, and this time it’s fully electric! Combining retro charm with modern tech, this stylish compact SUV aims to capture the hearts of budget-conscious commuters looking for cutting-edge design and eco-friendly driving.

The DS 3 SUV is an exceptional choice for those looking for a stylish, compact electric vehicle that embodies modern luxury while staying true to its retro roots. Its blend of performance, versatility, and cost-effective ownership makes it a compelling option in the rising electric SUV market. Perfect for both urban dwellers and those seeking adventure on B-roads, it performs impressively across a variety of driving scenarios. We highly recommend taking a closer look at this dazzling electric icon.

At a glance

129

hp · Power

441

miles · Range / tank

8.9s

0–60 mph

££

Running costs

From £572/mo

Typical finance

Motoring.Today. verdict

Best for

Striking design that fuses retro and modern aesthetics.
Impressive electric performance with low running costs.
Advanced technology and safety features enhancing the driving experience.

Consider alternatives if

Limited boot space compared to competitors.
Some interior materials may not feel as premium as expected.
Range may not satisfy all long-distance drivers.

Finance snapshot

Typical monthly payment

£572/month

Based on PCP · 48 months · £3,400 deposit

Best suited for

Company Car Drivers
Petrol/Diesel Buyers
High Mileage Drivers
Families

Affordability

Affordable

Above average monthly commitment.

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

£129/month

Insurance

£103/month

Road Tax

£16/month

Servicing

£60/month

Estimated total

£308/month

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With precise steering and a well-tuned suspension, the handling of the DS 3 SUV is impressive. The vehicle feels both responsive and stable, allowing for confident cornering and manoeuvrability, characteristic of a premium SUV tailored for urban driving and beyond.

Verified spec data

Specifications

Performance

Power

99–134 bhp

0–60 mph

8.9 s

Fastest in range

Top speed

126 mph

Engine

1,199 cc

Economy & running

Fuel economy

42.8–62.1 mpg

WLTP combined

Miles per £

9.1 mpp

CO₂

102–135 g/km

Insurance group

15–22 of 50

Road tax

£190/yr

Standard VED

Dimensions & practicality

Length

4,118 mm

Width

1,988 mm

Height

1,534 mm

Wheelbase

2,558 mm

Kerb weight

1,249 kg

Seats

Doors

Euro NCAP safety

4/5 · 2019

Safety assist

63%

Figures span the 12 recorded trim variants (2022–2024). 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 SUV (2022 onwards) 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 SUV impresses with its stylish design and premium interior quality. Owners appreciate the comfortable ride and good technology features, though some mention rear visibility issues and limited boot space. Overall, it offers a unique take on the compact SUV market.

Read full review

Autocar

The design of the DS 3 SUV stands out with bold aesthetics and luxurious finishes. Reviewers commend its attention to detail but note that its quirky layout may not appeal to everyone. The cabin feels upscale, though some practicality concerns have been raised.

Read full review

WhatCar

What Car? highlights the DS 3 SUV's reasonable reliability ratings, though there are concerns about the cost of repairs and servicing. Owners report a few electronic issues, but many find the overall performance meets expectations for a new vehicle.

Ownership intelligence

The real cost of owning one

Finance & affordability

Various finance options are available for the DS 3 SUV, including lease plans and favourable loan conditions that make the transition to electric driving more accessible. Additionally, incentives such as government grants for electric vehicles can further reduce upfront costs, making premium electric models more attainable.

Day-to-day running costs

The running costs of the DS 3 SUV are impressively low, thanks largely to its electric powertrain. Owners will benefit from savings on fuel, as charging at home or public stations is significantly cheaper than traditional petrol or diesel. Moreover, lower maintenance requirements further enhance cost efficiency. With fewer moving parts and no need for oil changes, it's an economical option in the long run.

Charging & fuel

Electric charging is straightforward, with a variety of options for home and public charging. The DS 3 SUV supports rapid charging, allowing for a quick top-up during longer journeys. Advanced onboard navigation systems can guide drivers to nearby charging stations, ensuring that range anxiety is minimised and convenience maximised.

Heritage

Milestones & history

2022
Launch of the updated DS 3 SUV featuring electric powertrain.
2023
Introduction of additional configurations and a new battery option.

Read full launch story

The DS brand has aimed to redefine luxury motoring, with a focus on innovation, style, and sustainable driving solutions. The DS 3 SUV continues this legacy by presenting an environmentally friendly alternative in the electric SUV segment. From its origins as a compact hatchback, the DS 3 has evolved into a versatile SUV that reflects contemporary trends in design and technology, positioning itself as a leader in the electric vehicle market.

Compare with alternatives

The DS 3 SUV (2022 onwards) competes well by offering a blend of style, technology, and comfort, although it faces tough competition from established rivals like the T-Cross, Countryman, and 2008.

Volkswagen T-Cross

Reference only

Positioned as a practical small SUV with a balance of comfort and versatility.

vs features: The T-Cross offers a spacious interior with a high-quality cabin, advanced tech features like a digital cockpit, and a smooth ride but may feel less sporty compared to the DS 3.
vs price: Typically, the T-Cross is priced similarly to the DS 3, making it a direct competitor, though it can be slightly more expensive depending on the options chosen.

No Motoring.Today review

Mini Countryman

Reference only

Marketed as a premium compact SUV with a focus on style and driving excitement.

vs features: The Countryman features a more upscale interior, engaging handling, and a strong emphasis on customization but may lack some tech conveniences found in the DS 3.
vs price: Generally more expensive than the DS 3, reflecting its premium positioning and additional features.

No Motoring.Today review

Peugeot 2008

Reference only

Positioned as an affordable and stylish small crossover with a good balance of practicality and modern features.

vs features: The 2008 comes with a well-designed, tech-savvy interior similar to the DS 3, but with less emphasis on luxury as it targets a broader audience.
vs price: Typically slightly less expensive than the DS 3, making it a more attractive option for budget buyers in the same segment.

No Motoring.Today review

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Gallery

(15)

DS 3 SUV (2022 onwards) trim & engine line-up

Representative trims and engines recorded for this model.

Trim	Fuel	Power	0–60	Economy	CO₂	Ins.	New price
1.2 MHEV 136 Opera 5dr e-DSCAutomatic · Front wheel drive · 2024	Petrol	134 bhp	8.9s	51.1 - 62.1 mpg	102 g/km	22	£35,670
1.2 PureTech 130 Opera 5dr EAT8Automatic · Front wheel drive · 2022–2024	Petrol	129 bhp	8.9s	45.6 - 48.7 mpg	130 g/km	21	£34,265
1.2 PureTech 130 Bastille 5dr EAT8Automatic · Front wheel drive · 2022–2023	Petrol	129 bhp	8.9s	42.8 - 46.3 mpg	135 g/km	20	£26,770
1.2 PureTech Bastille 5drManual · Front wheel drive · 2022–2023	Petrol	99 bhp	10.6s	45.3 - 49.6 mpg	128 g/km	15	£24,210
1.2 PureTech Performance Line 5drManual · Front wheel drive · 2022–2024	Petrol	99 bhp	10.6s	45.3 - 54.3 mpg	117 g/km	15	£26,980

Specs by trim

1.2 PureTech 130 Bastille 5dr EAT8Petrol Automatic · 2022–2023

Power: 129 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.9 s
Top speed: 124 mph
Torque: 230 Nm
Economy: 42.8 - 46.3 mpg
Range: 414 mi
CO₂: 135 g/km
Insurance group: 20
Road tax: £190
New price: £26,770

1.2 PureTech Bastille 5drPetrol Manual · 2022–2023

Power: 99 bhp
0–60 mph: 10.6 s
Top speed: 112 mph
Torque: 205 Nm
Economy: 45.3 - 49.6 mpg
Range: 438 mi
CO₂: 128 g/km
Insurance group: 15
Road tax: £190
New price: £24,210

1.2 PureTech 130 Performance Line 5dr EAT8Petrol Automatic · 2022–2024

Power: 129 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.9 s
Top speed: 125 mph
Torque: 230 Nm
Economy: 45.6 - 48.7 mpg
Range: 441 mi
CO₂: 130 g/km
Insurance group: 20
Road tax: £190
New price: £29,495

1.2 PureTech Performance Line 5drPetrol Manual · 2022–2024

Power: 99 bhp
0–60 mph: 10.6 s
Top speed: 118 mph
Torque: 205 Nm
Economy: 45.3 - 54.3 mpg
Range: 438 mi
CO₂: 117 g/km
Insurance group: 15
Road tax: £190
New price: £26,980

1.2 PureTech 130 Performance Line 5dr EAT8Petrol Automatic · 2022–2024

Power: 129 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.9 s
Top speed: 125 mph
Torque: 230 Nm
Economy: 45.6 - 48.7 mpg
Range: 441 mi
CO₂: 130 g/km
Insurance group: 20
Road tax: £190
New price: £29,495

1.2 PureTech 130 Rivoli 5dr EAT8Petrol Automatic · 2022–2023

Power: 129 bhp
0–60 mph: 8.9 s
Top speed: 124 mph
Torque: 230 Nm
Economy: 42.8 - 46.3 mpg
Range: 414 mi
CO₂: 135 g/km
Insurance group: 21
Road tax: £190
New price: £30,970

+ 6 more trim variants

FAQs

What makes the DS 3 SUV an eco-friendly choice?: The DS 3 SUV is a fully electric vehicle, offering zero emissions and cost-effective ownership thanks to low running costs, including reduced fuel expenses compared to traditional petrol vehicles.
How does the design of the DS 3 SUV stand out?: With its chic, retro-inspired design, the DS 3 SUV combines modern aesthetics with stylish features, appealing to those who appreciate both form and function in a luxury compact SUV.
What safety features does the DS 3 SUV offer?: The DS 3 SUV boasts impressive safety credentials, including a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, and is equipped with advanced driving technology to enhance driver and passenger safety.
What are the running costs for the DS 3 SUV?: Starting from £28,000, the DS 3 SUV offers low maintenance and charging costs, with full charges potentially costing between £8-12, making it a financially sensible option.
How does the DS 3 SUV perform in urban driving?: In urban settings, the DS 3 SUV excels with its compact size, delivering responsive acceleration and excellent noise insulation, making city driving both enjoyable and efficient.