Striking New Ds Suv Has Q5 In Sight

Wraps off new DS 7 Crossback, and we get first ride . Premium SUV offers luxury cabin, plus range of autonomous functions.

- James Disdale

THE covers have finally come off the new DS 7 Cross back, and Auto Express has been given a tour of the SUV ahead of its Geneva Motor Show debut. The brand has pulled out all the stops for its first SUV, which has a plug-in power train, unique suspension and various autonomous functions.

Since splitting from parent brand Citroen in 2015, DS has been saddled with an ageing line-up. However, with the DS 7 Cross back, the maker finally has a ‘bespoke’ model to take on premium cars such as the Audi Q5 and Range Rover Evoque.

Bosses are aware that DS can’t simply copy its rivals, though. Project director Xavier Savignon told us: “We’re not at the same level as premium rivals in terms of profile, so we have to do something different.”

As a result, it has tasked its designers and engineers with creating a model that delivers a distinctively Gallic take on luxury and refinement. Compact SUV proportions and simple surfacing both feature, with the Cross back offering a hint of Lexus in its design.