DS Automobiles has unveiled the second generation of its SUV 7, now called N°7. It takes after the N°8 unveiled last year, both in terms of styling and technology. But unlike its coupé-like sibling, the DS N°7 retains the option of an electric or hybrid drivetrain.

For the first time in the brand’s history, DS Automobiles is replacing a model with an all-new generation. The previous DS 7 was the French premium brand’s best-seller, which means the new DS N°7 faces high expectations. And it also explains why DS has opted to offer a choice of drivetrains, rather than going all-electric.

Classic SUV brother to the DS N°8

In the front, the similarities between the DS N°7 and the N°8 are immediately noticeable. The Light Blade light signature and Luminascreen illuminated grille are borrowed directly from its big brother. But the N°7 takes on a more traditional SUV shape, without compromising on aerodynamics.

The Cx value of 0.26 and SCx of 0.69 prove that you don’t need an awkward shape to cut through the air cleanly. With a length of 4.66 m, the DS N°7 is 7 cm longer than its predecessor, while the 2.79 m wheelbase (+ 5 cm) provides more space for rear passengers.

Art Deco interior

Inside, too, the DS N°7 follows the example set by the N°8. It gets the same X-shaped steering wheel, which is not as awkward in use as one might expect, and a 16-inch DS Iris System 2.0. Five different interior trims are available, with soft materials and contrasting colors to differentiate them from their Stellantis cousins.

As with other models, DS will offer different ‘Collections’ with specific styles and accents, starting with the La Première Collection with exclusive Nappa leather in a deep aubergine shade, bracelet-pattern seats, and pearl stitching.

STLA Medium with electric and hybrid options

Speaking of its Stellantis cousins: the DS N°7 shares its STLA Medium platform with the Peugeot 3008/5008, Opel Grandland, Citroën C5 Aircross, the DS N°8, and the upcoming Lancia Gamma. It’s a multi-energy platform that offers the choice of electrified combustion engines and fully electric drivetrains.

At launch, the DS N°7 will be available in three electric variants and one hybrid. The DS N°7 E-Tense starts with a 230 hp FWD powertrain, mated with a 73.7 kWh battery. This provides up to 543 km of WLTP range.

Up to 740 km WLTP range, or 450 km of highway range

The N°7 E-Tense FWD Long Range has the same motor but is bumped up to 245 hp, with a made-in-France 97.2 kWh battery. This gives it up to 740 km of WLTP range, putting it at the top of its segment.

DS also promises at least 450 km of highway driving range at 120 kph, as it also proved with the DS N°8, which can go over 500 km on the highway on a single charge.

Finally, the DS N°7 E-Tense AWD Long Range gets a second motor, four-wheel drive, and 350 hp. Thanks to a boost mode, this output can be temporarily increased to 375 hp, allowing the electric SUV to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.4 seconds. The same 97.2 kWh battery provides up to 679 km of WLTP range in this case.

DS N°7 Hybrid at launch, plug-in hybrid probably coming

The DS N°7 is also available as a Hybrid, with the 145 hp three-cylinder mild-hybrid gasoline engine found in many other Stellantis models. Here, DS promises fuel consumption of 5.4 l/100 km and CO2 emissions of 121-127 g/km. A plug-in hybrid variant is likely to follow later, as with other STLA Medium SUVs.

DS-specific comfort features

Along with the high-end interior trims, the DS N°7 also offers its passengers the comfort the brand has been known for since its inception. The DS Active Scan Suspension uses a camera to recognize the road surface and prep the dampers accordingly, providing the optimal balance between comfort and roadholding.

Optional acoustic side windows keep the interior as quiet as possible, allowing the Focal Electra 3D sound system to shine, with 14 speakers, including two in the roof. The DS Neck Warmer provides additional thermal comfort while being more energy-efficient than heating the entire cabin.

Finally, the panoramic glass roof is UV and low-E-coated to offer optimal thermal performance, but a sunshade or electrochromatic dimming is not available.

From €64,200 for the Business Line in France

The DS N°7 has already launched in France with a specific Business Line trim, aimed at professional customers and specifically specced to benefit from the eco-score to lower its taxation. The N°7 E-Tense FWD Étoile Business Line starts at €64,200 in France, including VAT.