The DS 7 (facelift, introduced in July 2022) 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic is a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) variant of the DS 7 SUV, positioned as a premium offering within the DS Automobiles lineup. This model year represents a significant refresh of the original DS 7, incorporating updated styling, technology, and powertrain refinements. The 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic specifically combines a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivering a combined system output of 225 horsepower. It sits in the mid-to-upper range of the DS 7 trim levels, offering a balance of performance, efficiency, and luxury features. The DS 7 itself is built on the EMP2 platform, shared with other Stellantis vehicles like the Peugeot 3008 and Opel/Vauxhall Grandland.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | DS |
| Model | 7 |
| Generation | 7 (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (225 Hp) E-TENSE Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 1.2-1.3 l/100 km (196 – 180.9 US mpg, 235.4 – 217.3 UK mpg, 83.3 – 76.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 28-29 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / electricity |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 225 km/h (139.81 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-ISC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 133.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.6 Nm/tonne |
| Gross battery capacity | 14.2 kWh |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Battery location | Under the rear seats |
| All-electric range (WLTP) | 66-67 km (41.01 – 41.63 mi) |
| Average Energy consumption (WLTP) | 16.3-16.5 kWh/100 km (26.23 – 26.55 kWh/100 mi, 128 – 127 MPGe, 6.1 – 6.1 km/kWh, 3.8 – 3.8 mi/kWh) |
| Max speed (electric) | 135 km/h (83.89 mph) |
| Electric motor power | 110 Hp @ 2500 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Electric motor location | Between the combustion engine and the transmission |
| System power | 225 Hp |
| System torque | 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 3000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 3000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | 5GG EP6FADTX |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 77 mm (3.03 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 85.8 mm (3.38 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.25 l (4.49 US qt | 3.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1685-1746 kg (3714.79 – 3849.27 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2350 kg (5180.86 lbs.) |
| Max load | 604-665 kg (1331.59 – 1466.07 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 555 l (19.6 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 43 l (11.36 US gal | 9.46 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 70 kg (154.32 lbs.) |
| Length | 4593 mm (180.83 in.) |
| Width | 1895 mm (74.61 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2098 mm (82.6 in.) |
| Height | 1625 mm (63.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2738 mm (107.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1621 mm (63.82 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1598 mm (62.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 941 mm (37.05 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 915 mm (36.02 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric motor drive the front wheels of the car with the ability to work in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 330×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 290×12 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R19; 235/45 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 19; 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The DS 7 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic, launched with the 2022 facelift, represents DS Automobiles’ commitment to electrified luxury. Building upon the success of the original DS 7, this variant offers a compelling blend of performance and efficiency thanks to its plug-in hybrid powertrain. The facelift brought significant aesthetic and technological updates, enhancing the DS 7’s premium positioning. This specific model is aimed at buyers seeking a sophisticated SUV with the ability to operate on electric power for shorter journeys, reducing emissions and fuel costs. It competes with other premium PHEV SUVs such as the Volvo XC60 Recharge and the BMW X3 xDrive30e.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the DS 7 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic lies the 5GG EP6FADTX engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and is paired with a turbocharger and intercooler to maximize power and efficiency. The engine produces 181 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3000 rpm. Complementing this is an 110 horsepower electric motor, delivering 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque. The electric motor is strategically positioned between the combustion engine and the 8-speed automatic transmission. The combined system output is 225 horsepower and 360 Nm (265.52 lb.-ft.) of torque. The 14.2 kWh lithium-ion battery pack is located under the rear seats, minimizing impact on passenger space. The powertrain management system allows for various driving modes, including zero-emission electric mode, hybrid mode, and sport mode, optimizing performance and efficiency based on driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The DS 7 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic offers a refined and comfortable driving experience. In electric mode, the vehicle provides near-silent operation and instant torque, making it ideal for urban driving. The all-electric range of 66-67 km (41.01 – 41.63 mi) is sufficient for many daily commutes. When the battery is depleted or when more power is required, the gasoline engine seamlessly kicks in, providing a smooth and responsive acceleration. The 8-speed automatic transmission contributes to this smoothness, offering quick and precise gear changes. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the DS 7 E-TENSE provides ample power for highway cruising and overtaking. The front-wheel-drive configuration offers predictable handling, and the suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road effectively. Compared to lower-powered DS 7 variants, the E-TENSE offers significantly more performance, while being more efficient than the gasoline-only models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The DS 7 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic typically comes well-equipped with standard features including a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a digital instrument cluster, leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking. Higher trim levels offer additional features such as a premium sound system, panoramic sunroof, and ventilated front seats. Optional extras include a head-up display, massaging front seats, and a hands-free parking assist system. The interior design emphasizes luxury and sophistication, with high-quality materials and meticulous attention to detail.
Chassis & Braking
The DS 7 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to accommodate the added weight of the battery pack without compromising handling. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front (330×30 mm) and solid discs at the rear (290×12 mm). ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, along with electronic brake-force distribution and emergency brake assist. The electric motor also contributes to regenerative braking, helping to recharge the battery and improve efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The DS 7 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic has been generally well-received by automotive critics, praised for its stylish design, luxurious interior, and efficient powertrain. Reviewers have noted the comfortable ride quality and the seamless integration of the electric and gasoline engines. However, some have criticized the relatively limited all-electric range compared to some competitors. Compared to the DS 7 BlueHDi diesel variants, the E-TENSE offers lower emissions and a more refined driving experience, albeit at a higher price point. Against gasoline-powered DS 7 models, the E-TENSE provides superior fuel economy and the ability to drive in zero-emission mode.
Legacy
The DS 7 1.6 E-TENSE Automatic represents an important step in DS Automobiles’ transition towards electrification. The powertrain, while not without its complexities, has proven to be relatively reliable in early model years. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, reflecting the brand’s growing reputation for quality and luxury. The long-term durability of the battery pack remains a key consideration for potential buyers, but DS Automobiles offers a warranty on the battery to provide peace of mind. The DS 7 E-TENSE paved the way for further electrified models in the DS lineup, solidifying the brand’s commitment to sustainable mobility.
