French premium car maker DS Automobiles has revealed the new DS No7, replacing its long-standing and best-selling DS 7 SUV with a new model set to take on the likes of the impressive BMW iX3.
This marks the first time since DS was established as a separate brand in 2014 that one of its core models has been fully renewed, and it signals a broader push towards electrification and higher levels of technology across the range.
The DS No7 continues the formula of its predecessor, combining relatively compact exterior dimensions with a focus on interior space, comfort and a distinctive design. The new car sits on a multi-energy platform, meaning buyers will be able to choose between fully-electric and hybrid powertrains from launch.
Xavier Peugeot, CEO of DS Automobiles, said: “After the launch of No8, our 100 per cent electric flagship offering up to 750km of range, followed by No4, the most comfortable multi-energy saloon in its segment, the arrival of No7 continues this momentum for DS Automobiles.
“DS No7 embodies a new stage of maturity: blending refinement, comfort and technology, it stands as a key strategic milestone for the brand.”
At 4,660mm long, the DS No7 is slightly larger than before, with an extra 70mm overall length and a 50mm increase in wheelbase to 2,790mm. Width remains at 1,900mm and height at 1,630mm, keeping the car within the same footprint while improving interior space.
The design evolves the look of the outgoing DS7 with a more aerodynamic profile, influenced by the DS Aero Sport Lounge concept. A drag coefficient of 0.26 is claimed, achieved in part by a curved roofline and integrated rear spoiler that also preserves rear headroom.
Lighting plays a key role in the styling, with a new DS Light Blade signature at the front combined with an illuminated grille. At the rear, vertical light elements echo the front design while also contributing to airflow management.
Buyers will be able to choose from six exterior colours, including a new Silk Green finish, along with bi-tone paint options and wheels of up to 21 inches in diameter.
Despite the focus on aerodynamics, DS says interior space has been improved, particularly in the rear, where larger doors increase the window area by 30 per cent. The optional panoramic roof is also 40 per cent larger than before.
Boot capacity has been boosted to 560 litres depending on specification, dropping to 500 litres in all-wheel drive versions and those with a subwoofer under the boot floor. A two-position boot floor and folding 40/20/40 rear seats aim to improve flexibility, while storage for charging cables has been integrated beneath the load floor in electric models.
The interior itself continues DS’s focus on uniquely French materials and craftsmanship, with options including Nappa leather, Alcantara and various fabric finishes. Signature design elements such as ‘Clous de Paris’ detailing and pearl stitching remain, alongside a choice of five interior themes.
However, the headline figure for the DS No7 is its electric range, with the E-Tense FWD Long Range version offering up to 460 miles – some way short of the BMW iX3’s 500-mile claim and the Volvo EX60’s 503 miles. However, the DS No7 makes do with a smaller 97.2kWh battery that’s also produced in France.
An all-wheel drive version using the same battery delivers up to 421 miles, while a smaller-battery front-wheel drive model with a 73.7kWh battery offers up to 337 miles.
On motorways, DS claims the long-range version can achieve up to 279 miles between charges, helped by its aerodynamic efficiency. Rapid charging is rated at up to 160kW, allowing a 20 to 80 per cent charge in 27 minutes for the larger battery, or 31 minutes for the smaller one. DS says up to 118 miles of range can be added in 10 minutes under optimal conditions.
Three electric power outputs are available. The entry-level front-wheel drive version produces 230hp, rising to 245hp in the long-range model and 350hp in the dual-motor all-wheel drive version.
A temporary boost function increases outputs to 260hp, 280hp and 375hp respectively, with the all-wheel drive version capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 5.4 seconds.
The car also features battery preconditioning, plug-and-charge functionality and route planning that factors in charging stops, while a vehicle-to-load system allows external devices to be powered from the battery.
For buyers not ready to go fully electric, DS is also offering a self-charging hybrid. This combines a 1.2-litre petrol engine with an electric motor integrated into a six-speed dual-clutch gearbox, delivering 145hp and fuel economy of 52mpg, with CO2 emissions between 121 and 127g/km.
The DS No7 also introduces a suite of updated driver assistance and infotainment systems. DS Drive Assist 2.0 offers level two semi-autonomous driving, including adaptive cruise control and semi-automatic lane changes.
Lighting technology is led by DS Pixelvision, which adapts the beam to avoid dazzling other road users while maintaining visibility up to 400 metres, or 520 metres with its boost function.
Inside, the DS Iris System 2.0 is centred around a large 16-inch touchscreen and includes integrated ChatGPT functionality for voice control, along with wireless smartphone connectivity and access to vehicle health data.
Additional features include a head-up display projected onto the windscreen, night vision capable of detecting pedestrians and animals up to 300 metres ahead, and a digital rear-view mirror.
Comfort remains a key focus for DS, with the No7 featuring the Active Scan Suspension system that works so well to cushion the ride in the DS No8. Using a camera to read the road ahead, the system adjusts each damper in real time to improve ride quality.
Acoustic laminated glass and additional sound-deadening materials aim to improve cabin quietness, while a 14-speaker Focal sound system is available.
Front seats can be specified with heating, ventilation and massage functions, along with a ‘neck warmer’ system designed to improve thermal comfort without increasing energy consumption. Rear passengers also benefit from heated seats and separate climate controls.
The DS No7 will be built in Europe, with batteries produced at the ACC Gigafactory in northern France and final assembly taking place in Italy.
DS says recycled materials are used throughout the car, including textiles, carpets and Alcantara, while chrome has been reduced in favour of alternative finishes.
The first DS No7 models should start to go on sale in the UK towards the end of the year.
