DS first launched the DS 7 back in 2017 when it was one of the first DS-branded cars released onto the market. As part of the model’s development, it gained plug-in power two years ago. Now, DS has given the 7 a full overhaul including a choice of three PHEV powertrains offering up to 40 miles of range and 36hp.

A mid-life refresh rather than a full overhaul, DS has – in its own words – “respected the personality and elegance of the existing shape… but injected an additional touch of dynamism with sharp features”. Design touches on the interior and exterior help continue the DS 7’s notoriety for luxury but more interestingly, DS has given the 7 three plug-in hybrid powertrains to choose from.

Powertrains

As a self-proclaimed multi-energy brand, PHEVs are at the centre of DS’s model ranges. Three plug-in power levels will be offered in the DS 7 – 225hp, 300hp and 360hp.

The DS 7 E-TENSE 225 is the same powertrain we’ve seen in other Stellantis models. It combines a 1.6-litre PureTech 180 (177bhp) petrol engine with a 109bhp electric motor which is integrated in the eight-speed gearbox and powers the front wheels.

Four-wheel drive is standard on both the DS 7 E-TENSE 300 and 360. This combines a PureTech 200 petrol engine with a 109bhp and 111bhp motors on each of the axles respectively. On the higher-powered 360 model, DS Performance – better known for its role in Formula E – has tuned the powertrain and chassis, with 0-62mph achieved in just 5.6 seconds.

Across all models is a 14.2kWh battery which offers 40 miles on the WLTP cycle and closer to 50 in urban settings. Charging at 7.4kW takes two hours.

Exterior design

DS hasn’t gone crazy with the new DS 7. The updates are more in the details than the overall shape of the car, with the biggest change being the DS Light Veil daytime running lights and DS Pixel LED Vision headlamps, alongside a larger grille and DS Wings at the front.

At the rear, the LED lights now have a ‘vortex’ effect and have been redesigned with a dark metallic finish. The boot lid and badge now have sharper lines with ‘DS AUTOMOBILES’ replacing the previous ‘CROSSBACK’ lettering. Wheels range from 19 to 21 inches whilst gloss back window surrounds and roof bars are offered on the Gloss Black variant.

Interior design and tech

Seats in the DS 7 have been improved with a single piece of Nappa leather, free of stitching or beads, to enhance the already considerable comfort on offer.

Tech-wise, the DS 7 gains the DS IRIS system which features a redesigned 12 inch touchscreen. This interface has been reworked to be reactive, seamless and much more intuitive than the previous system whilst also supporting voice control. It is augmented by a 12 inch digital instrument cluster.

DS Active Scan suspension is retained, as is DS Night Vision. The former uses cameras in conjunction with the active suspension to pre-load each wheel to enhance ride comfort. The latter can detect people and animals up to 100m away and is displayed via the digital instrument cluster.

Price and availability

Prices are yet to be announced but we do know that orders will start being taken in August and deliveries commencing in September.