Get the torches and pitchforks: it’s a new diesel crossover. Not really, as the frugal diesel engine is more suited to a car like this, even if it no longer gets used tax benefits.
When the DS 7 Crossback was rebadged as the DS 7 earlier this year, most of the pure combustion range was removed, leaving three plug-in hybrids. The only survivor of the ICE era is the 1.5 liter diesel with 129 hp.
We’ve already driven the facelifted DS 7 in 225 Hybrid form and done a full road test in the 360 Hybrid, so the focus here will be on the diesel.
On paper, it may seem like you’ll suffer for your fuel economy. 129 hp of power and a 0-62 mph time of 10.7 seconds isn’t impressive, and it’s clear that it’s not particularly fast when you’re pulling onto a freeway. Still, in a world of turbocharged petrol engines and hybrids, it’s nice to be back in the torquey embrace of a diesel. At daily pace, it picks up speed quietly and adequately. Even when you put your foot down, it never squeaks. Although you can tell it’s a diesel, it’s a refined unit at city speeds.
The gearbox, a well-known eight-speed automobile, can be quite complex in combination with petrol engines, doing everything you’d expect from a good torque converter automobile. It changes ratios smoothly without you noticing and stays in the right gear at the right time. Unlike hybrids, there’s also a manual mode if you prefer.
That saved the 50s. Not revolutionary, but still so good that it doesn’t need to be inserted. However, it’s a bit disappointing that it can only tow 1,430kg, while the BMW X1 sDrive 18d can handle 1,800kg.
Elsewhere, this version has the same strengths and weaknesses as other DS 7s. It handles well enough, with sluggish and very light steering, but gradually gains weight in Sport mode. You still can’t call it a sports SUV, and the moderately sharp handling does not forgive bumpy rides – and that’s on relatively modest 19-inch wheels.
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