The DS3 PureTech 130 S&S 6-speed Manual is a handsome looking car, particularly in the Sport Red and Opal White combination of the model on test which when combined with the 17 inch grey diamond-cut ‘Aphrodite’ alloy wheels, provides you with a truly unique exterior worthy of The DS badge. And that additional rise of the bodywork around the rear of the driver and passenger windows showcases the boldness of design that DS is famous for.
Solid chrome door handles create a strong first impression as do the subtle DS badges hidden away within the rear light clusters. At the rear of the car, the large rear lights create an inverse 3D effect, drawing you into the lights themselves and that subtle roof spoiler, jewel like front lenses, near vertical daytime running lights. I could go on.
Dominating the interior is an impressive centrally mounted 7 inch touchscreen which enables easy access to functions such as satellite navigation, the sound system, smartphone connectivity, the car’s driving settings and Mirror Screen. A further striking element of the dashboard are the three heating and climate controls with the central temperature gauge highlighted with fantastic graphics on a bright white background. It’s a great touch.
The interior is a sumptuous place to while away the time with more than enough adjustment to get comfortable. This is a car that you’d be happy to travel further afield in as the technology present leaves you wanting for nothing and the ride quality is sublime, a combination that DS call Dynamic Hypercomfort.
On the move, the PureTech 130 S&S engine, delivers 130bhp at 5500rpm whilst producing 170 ft/lb torque at 1750rpm and CO2 figures of 105 g/kg. Add this to the revvy nature of the engine and the DS3 offers a surprisingly vivid drive. DS have engineered a spirited character into their different models and this particular DS3 is certainly no different. But you don’t have to allow the engine to rev out through every one of it’s six gears, although stirring the excellent 6-speed gearbox is immense fun, as is the flexibility of the 1199cc unit. Town work and commuting is simply a pleasure, accentuated by the light steering and clutch and the ability of the DS to follow your instructions to the letter. Want to place the car on the correct line through a set of corners before lining up an overtake or take a leisurely spin out to the coast with the family? The DS3 is capable of both.
Starting at £18,595 for the Chic BlueHDi 100 S&S manual and rising to £25,295 for the range topping Performance Black THP 210 S&S 6-speed manual, you’re paying for a quality car designed and built with an attention to detail that is to be admired and applauded. Fast when you need it to be, yet frugal, comfortable, very well equipped and finished.
I’d buy one and so should you.
Where will you go?