DS Automobiles has unveiled the DS No7, a new electric SUV replacing the DS 7 with up to 740 km WLTP range from its 97.2 kWh battery. This positions it ahead of rivals like the Audi Q6 e-tron (660 km) and close to the Mercedes GLC EQ (713 km), targeting premium buyers seeking long-range capability in a compact luxury package. For EV enthusiasts, the No7 combines French design flair with practical specs at a starting price around €46,900.
Background: DS Automobiles’ Push into Premium EVs
DS Automobiles, the luxury brand spun off from Citroën in 2014, aims to carve a niche in Europe’s premium EV market with distinctive styling and advanced comfort features. The original DS 7 was its bestseller, blending SUV practicality with high-end interiors, but lacked a full EV option. The No7, built on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform shared with Peugeot 3008/5008 and Jeep models, shifts fully electric while retaining hybrid choices for transition buyers. Production occurs at the Melfi, Italy factory, emphasizing premium materials like Nappa leather, real wood, and recycled carpets to differentiate from platform siblings.
DS positions the No7 in the compact premium SUV segment against Audi, BMW, and Mercedes, betting on superior range and unique French touches like illuminated grilles and vertical DRLs. Unveiled in March 2026, it follows the larger DS No8 flagship, signaling DS’s all-in EV strategy despite retaining 400V architecture over rivals’ 800V systems.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 4.66 m long, 1.90 m wide, 1.63 m high; wheelbase +7 cm vs DS 7 |
| Aerodynamics | Cd 0.26 |
| Battery Options | 73.7 kWh (543 km WLTP), 97.2 kWh (740 km WLTP) |
| Powertrains | FWD 230 hp (74 kWh), FWD 245 hp (97 kWh, boost to 280 hp); AWD 350 hp (97 kWh, boost to 375 hp, 0-100 km/h in 5.4 s) |
| Charging | DC up to 160 kW (20-80% in 27-31 min, 190 km in 10 min); AC 7.4/11/22 kW options; V2L support |
| Hybrid | 1.2L + 28 hp electric, 145 hp total, 5.4 L/100 km, 50% electric in city |
| Pricing (est.) | Hybrid €41,800; EV €46,900; Business EV €64,000 (France) |
| Other | Active Scan Suspension, acoustic glass, 16″ + 10″ screens, ChatGPT integration |
Design and Aerodynamics
The DS No7 grows slightly to 4.66 meters long, prioritizing rear legroom with an extended wheelbase. Its Cd 0.26 drag coefficient—enabled by flush handles, sloping roofline, and optimized contours—underpins the 740 km range claim, just 10 km shy of the larger No8. Exterior cues include vertical daytime running lights and an illuminated grille, which evolve DS’s signature look, while prototypes hint at range badges on the doors. Interiors evoke a lounge with memory foam seats offering massage and neck ventilation, Nappa leather, and a 14-speaker system in a noise-insulated cabin via acoustic glass.
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Performance and Range Analysis
Three EV powertrains cater to varied needs: base FWD 230 hp (boost to 260 hp) with 73.7 kWh for 543 km; Long Range FWD 245 hp (boost 280 hp) with 97.2 kWh for 740 km WLTP; and AWD 350 hp (boost 375 hp) matching the top range but accelerating to 100 km/h in 5.4 seconds. Real-world highway range drops to about 450 km, with sources estimating 500 km at 130 km/h for similar DS models. The 400V system limits DC charging to 160 kW (27-31 min 20-80%), trailing Audi Q6 e-tron’s 21 minutes, but consistent curves and battery preconditioning help. V2L adds utility for powering devices.
Technology and Comfort Features
DS’s Active Scan Suspension uses a forward camera to soften preemptively for bumps, aiming for pancake-flat ride quality. A 16-inch central touchscreen pairs with a 10-inch driver display, integrating ChatGPT for voice interaction. Battery cells sourced from CATL (small pack) and ACC France (large pack), supporting up to 22 kW AC. The self-charging hybrid bridges to full EV, offering 50% electric city driving without plugs.
Competitor Comparison
| Model | Range (WLTP) | Power (hp) | DC Charge (20-80%) | Price Est. (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DS No7 LR FWD | 740 km | 245 (280 boost) | 27 min @160 kW | 46,900 |
| Audi Q6 e-tron | 660 km | Up to 510 | 21 min @270 kW | 75,000+ |
| Mercedes GLC EQ | 713 km | Up to 381 | 22 min | 65,000+ |
| BMW iX3 | ~600 km | Up to 340 | ~25 min | 70,000+ |
The No7 undercuts German rivals on price while matching or exceeding range, though 400V charging lags 800V competitors. It offers more power boosts than base Audis but less outright speed.
Verdict
The DS No7 delivers class-leading 740 km range in a stylish, comfort-focused package, ideal for premium buyers prioritizing distance over peak charging speed or badge prestige. It’s best for long-distance commuters in Europe who value French luxury at a value price, though real-world range verification and full PHEV details remain pending. DS must prove reliability against established Germans to gain traction.
