CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: N/A
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 35.0%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.6 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 120
Average Price: Around £11,000

DS 3 Crossback (2019-present) Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Stylish good looks	Unsettled and uncomfortable ride
Fun to drive	Short on space for passengers and luggage
Flamboyant cabin design	Expensive to buy

Quick Summary

The DS 3 Crossback (2019-present) is a fashion-forward compact SUV that prioritises style over substance. Its distinctive design features, including wibbly-wobbly headlights, shark-fin side window lines, pop-out door handles, and chubby-cheeked rear quarters, make it stand out in a crowded market. The interior boasts a flamboyant cockpit with diamond-shaped design motifs throughout, creating one of the most interesting-looking cabins available. A range of petrol, diesel, and electric (E-Tense) engines are offered, with the latter providing 212 miles of WLTP range and respectable performance.

However, beneath the eye-catching aesthetics lie significant practical drawbacks. The rear seats are cramped, the boot is small, and the ride is unsettled on typical UK roads, with soft suspension causing excessive body roll and wallowing. Handling, whilst perky around town, cannot match sportier alternatives. The infotainment system and touch-sensitive controls are fiddly to use, and the car commands a premium price. Fuel economy is reasonable—expect 40-45mpg from petrol engines and around 55mpg from diesel—but timing belt replacement costs (£400-500) should be factored into running costs for conventional engines.

Best for: Buyers prioritising distinctive styling and a flamboyant interior over practicality, and those seeking an eye-catching compact SUV for urban driving.

Not ideal for: Families needing rear passenger space or boot capacity, drivers seeking a comfortable ride on poor road surfaces, or those wanting excellent value for money.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the DS 3 Crossback if: You prioritise distinctive styling and a flamboyant interior over practicality, and seek an eye-catching compact SUV for urban driving.

Consider alternatives if: You need rear passenger space, boot capacity, a comfortable ride, or excellent value for money.

Competitive Position: The DS 3 Crossback struggles against its rivals in this competitive segment. Whilst its styling and cabin design are undeniably distinctive, it falls short on practicality, ride comfort, and value. The Vauxhall Mokka offers better user satisfaction and a higher overall rating, the Audi Q2 provides superior build quality and handling, and the MINI Countryman delivers more engaging driving dynamics. For most buyers, these alternatives represent better choices, whether prioritising practicality, comfort, or driving enjoyment. The DS 3 Crossback's premium pricing makes it difficult to recommend given its significant drawbacks.

Read our full DS 3 Crossback Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from June 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.

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