DS 7 Crossback 2018 Complete Review: Luxury SUV Features

The DS 7 Crossback 2018 marks a bold entry into the luxury SUV market, blending French elegance with cutting-edge engineering. This mid-sized crossover stands out with its sophisticated styling, innovative ride technology, and plush cabin, targeting buyers who crave distinction from mainstream rivals. Launched as DS’s flagship model, it draws on Citroën’s heritage while carving its own premium identity.

Striking Exterior Design and Aerodynamics

The DS 7 Crossback captivates at first glance with a design inspired by high-fashion concepts. Its front end features intricate LED headlights that rotate 180 degrees upon unlocking, emitting a signature purple glow for a dramatic effect. These DS Active Vision lamps not only enhance visibility but also underscore the car’s avant-garde personality.

Flanking the bold grille are sculpted air intakes and chrome accents that taper into a sleek profile. The 20-inch alloy wheels (on higher trims) fill the arches assertively, contributing to a poised stance. At the rear, slim LED taillights and a subtle spoiler maintain the athletic lines. With a drag coefficient optimized for efficiency, the bodywork balances style and substance, measuring 4.57 meters long with ample ground clearance for light off-road duties.

• Rotating LED headlights for superior night driving and visual flair.
• Aerodynamic shaping aids fuel economy without sacrificing presence.
• Available in Performance Line trim with sportier 19-inch wheels and blacked-out details.

Opulent Interior: Luxury Meets Innovation

Step inside, and the DS 7 Crossback reveals a cabin rivaling high-end brands. Vast expanses of Alcantara cover the dashboard, doors, and seats in Performance Line models, paired with leather inserts for a tactile, upscale feel. The thick-rimmed steering wheel, likened to a leather-wrapped bottle, offers a unique grip.

Dominating the dash is a 12-inch HD touchscreen controlling infotainment, navigation, and climate. Below it, physical rotary dials provide intuitive access. The 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster offers customizable views, from classic dials to full navigation maps. Front seats boast heating, ventilation, and massage functions on top specs, with generous adjustment ranges.

Rear passengers enjoy ample legroom and headroom despite the coupe-like roofline. Seats recline electrically (with optional packs), and amenities include USB ports, air vents, and Isofix mounts. Practicality shines with a deep center console cubby and large door bins, though the glovebox is minimal.

Groundbreaking Suspension and Ride Quality

At the heart of the DS 7 Crossback’s appeal is its DS Active Scan Suspension, a camera-based system that scans the road ahead via a windshield-mounted camera. It detects bumps, potholes, and undulations up to 15 meters in advance, preemptively adjusting dampers for optimal comfort. This results in a serene ride over speed humps and rough surfaces, with initial softening followed by controlled rebound.

Without Active Scan, the standard setup feels firm yet floaty, drawing criticism for wallowy handling. However, the advanced system shines in Comfort mode, gliding effortlessly on motorways while remaining composed. Sport mode stiffens responses for keener cornering, though the car retains a relaxed demeanor rather than outright agility.

Drive modes include Normal, Sport, Snow, Mud, Sand, and ESP Off, enhancing versatility in adverse weather. Paired with front-wheel drive and 7.8 inches of clearance, it’s capable on slippery roads, though not a true off-roader.

Engine Lineup and Performance

The 2018 DS 7 Crossback offers efficient powertrains. The star is the 1.6-liter THP 225 petrol, delivering 222 hp with punchy acceleration (0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds) and a refined growl. It achieves around 43 mpg in mixed driving, competitive for its class.

Diesel options include a 1.5-liter (130 hp) for economy (up to 56 mpg) and a 2.0-liter (177 hp). All pair with an eight-speed automatic, smooth in shifts but occasionally hesitant at low speeds. Top speeds hover around 140 mph, with emissions low enough for urban use.

• THP 225 Petrol: Spirited performance, 43 mpg real-world.
• BlueHDi Diesels: Frugal, quiet cruising.
• Eight-speed auto standard across the range.

Advanced Driver Assistance and Safety

Safety is paramount, earning a five-star Euro NCAP rating. The DS Connected Pilot enables Level 2 autonomy: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping, and hands-free driving up to 112 mph on compatible roads. Adaptive LED headlights swivel into corners, improving visibility.

Other aids include blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition, and parking sensors. Rear visibility aids like a camera mitigate the car’s stylized pillars.

Practicality, Running Costs, and Rivals

Boot space totals 555 liters (expandable to 1,752), suitable for families. Servicing intervals are 20,000 miles, with competitive warranties. Pricing started around £38,000, positioning it against Audi Q5, BMW X3, and Volvo XC60—rivals it matches in luxury but undercuts in innovation.

Used values hold well due to rarity, appealing to those seeking uniqueness.

Pros and Cons at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What makes the DS 7 Crossback’s suspension special?

The Active Scan system uses a camera to read road imperfections ahead, adjusting dampers proactively for unmatched smoothness.

Is the interior as premium as German rivals?

Yes, with premium materials like Alcantara and advanced screens, it rivals Audi and BMW while feeling uniquely French.

How fuel-efficient is the petrol engine?

The THP 225 achieves about 43 mpg in real-world tests, balancing power and economy.

Does it have autonomous driving features?

DS Connected Pilot offers Level 2 autonomy, including hands-free highway driving.

What’s the boot space like?

555 liters standard, expanding to 1,752 liters—ample for a luxury SUV.