2020 DS 7 Crossback: First impression

The premium arm of the PSA group, DS has recently brought the latest iteration of its luxury crossover, DS 7 Crossback on the Malaysian shores. The chic European crossover was firstly appeared at the 2018 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show and followed by the official launch in the country in June last year. The fully-imported premium SUV is based on EMP2 architecture and is a close sibling of the Citroen C5 Aircross. 

For the 2020 model, the DS 7 Crossback has been updated in terms of technology and styling. It is available in a single variant option, i.e., Performance Line with a new price tag of RM 259,888 (before insurance). It rivals against the likes of Mercedes GLA, BMW X1, Audi A3, and Volvo XC40.

The new DS 7 Crossback comes with a 5-year/120,000 km warranty and 5 years of 24-hour roadside assistance. Moreover, the firm also rewards its customers with comfort, convenience, and relaxation by providing access to the SkyLounge at Subang Skypark, and the DS Only You service.

Exterior

On the exterior, the added features are matte black highlights, Carmine Red badging, and 19-inch “Beijing” Black Onyx turbine-style alloy wheels. The SUV features a DS ACTIVE LED VISION system, which adjusts the light spread as per the road conditions, width, and vehicle speed. The set-up houses the directional indicators, LED fog lamps and LED DRLs, which have the pattern of beaded stitches. At the rear end, there are sleek LED tail lights inspired by the E-Tense concept car, featuring laser-etched, 3-D scales. The vehicle comes with plenty of chrome accents.

In terms of dimensions, the 2020 DS 7 Crossback measures 4573 mm in length, 1906 mm in width, and 1625 mm in height with a wheelbase of 2738 mm. For the exterior paint, now the customers have only two choices - Nera Black and Pearl White.

Interior

2020 DS 7 Crossback features a stylish interior comprising the well-crafted sporty appeal blended with an outlay of luxury. Each material and every detail have a testament to the inspiration of Haute Couture.

The cockpit stands out with unique features like ‘Clous de Paris’ Guilloché patterned accents, controls with crystal inserts, the B.R.M R180 timepiece, and pearl-edged stitching. For meeting the luxury statement, the seats, dashboard, and door panels are covered with Basalt Black Alcantara.

Technology

One of the important technological additions in the new DS 7 Crossback is a 12-inch touchscreen infotainment unit that replaces the old 8-inch one. The system handles multimedia, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, DS Connect, MirrorLink connectivity, navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot functions, and climate control. It is paired with a 14-speaker and 515-watt Focal Electra Hi-Fi sound system.

For all driving information, there is a 12.3-inch instrument panel in which the driver can also personalize the smart graphics. It comprises a scrolling menu controlled by the steering wheel.

The other technical bits are:

• Keyless entry and start
• Handsfree powered tailgate
• Power-adjustable front seats with driver’s side memory
• Power-reclining rear seats with a one-touch folding function
• Qi wireless smartphone charger
• Triple-zone auto climate control
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror 
• Reverse camera
• Cruise control
• Acoustic glass windscreen 

Engine specifications

Under the hood, 2020 DS 7 Crossback houses the same drivetrain i.e. a 1.6 Turbo High-Pressure mill, capable of generating 165 PS of maximum power at 6,000 rpm and 240 Nm of peak torque from 1,400 rpm. It sends power to the front wheels through an efficient six-speed automatic gearbox (EAT6) with Quickshift Technology and paddle shifters.

Safety

The DS 7 Crossback features six airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, dynamic stability control with anti-skid regulation, electronic stability programme, and all-round parking sensors with a rear camera. There is also a DS Driver Attention Warning system that detects your wanderings. It is operated by a timed alert system at speeds in excess of 64 kmph. It recommends a break after two hours of driving.

The 2020 DS 7 Crossback is designed to express brilliance and French know-how. It is the perfect balance of refinement and alchemy of power, thus bringing together premium craftsmanship and technological innovations. It is stylish, safest, and feature-packed and will surely make you turn around while walking away from it.

Also read: DS Aero Sport Lounge EV is the new French masterpiece