DS 3 hatchback (2016-2019) - Interior & comfort

The DS range benefits from higher-quality materials than Citroen's more mainstream models, so the DS 3 feels significantly more upmarket than the Citroen C3. Attractive gauges, colour-coded upholstery and comfortable seats all add up to a classy and relaxing feel, and the extensive use of a gloss-black material is a highlight, even though some lower-quality materials can be found lower down on the centre console and door trims.

One drawback of life inside the DS 3 is excessive wind and road noise from outside, which can be tiring on long motorway journeys. The 17-inch alloy wheels don’t help in this respect and they’re also responsible for less than perfect ride comfort. The MINI is a quieter and more relaxing car in which to travel.

DS 3 dashboard

The driving position won’t suit everyone – there’s a lot of adjustment available, but those with longer legs aren’t especially well catered for. However, once installed you’ll find most of the main readouts clear and easy to read – especially the speedometer, which dominates the instrument panel. There's a new touchscreen display in the centre console that includes modern technology, such as Apple CarPlay and Mirror Link for Android.

Equipment

One of the main selling points of DS cars is the importance placed on design and luxury, so all DS 3s are well equipped, even if the line-up now comprises just two trim levels – Connected Chic and Performance Line - and two special-edition versions.

Standard kit on Connected Chic cars includes a leather steering wheel, roof-coloured door mirrors, LED daytime running lights, split-folding rear seats, cruise control, seven-inch touchscreen display, air-conditioning, Active City Braking and an alarm. The list doesn’t stop there though, with 17-inch alloy wheels, sat-nav, Apple CarPlay, automatic air-con and gloss black interior trim panels giving the car a comprehensive specification.

DS 3 Performance line models add an interior embellished by Performance Line emblems and chrome inserts, while standard equipment broadly matches the Connected Chic model. The almost £2,000 price hike over the Connected Chic model is accounted for by premium cloth upholstery, a rear spoiler, LED Vision xenon headlights, upgraded alloy wheels, plus interior upgrades such as coloured stitching on the seats and steering wheel.

The Cafe Racer model aims to pay homage to classic British and French motorcycle racing, and adds exterior graphics, privacy glass, xenons, the DS Convenience Pack and brown Napa leather seats with a 'watchstrap' design. The DS 3 Forever model, on the other hand, is the car's final special edition and includes Monogram roof stickers, black leather upholstery, auto lights and wipers, and sports pedals.

Options

There are plenty of personalisation options as far as colours are concerned and leather upholstery can be added – £1,250 on the Connected Chic and £1,000 on the Performance Line. There are three packages that can be added, too. A £700 Technology Collection includes a stereo upgrade and Active City Brake, while a £450 Comfort and Convenience Collection adds auto lights and wipers, and electrically adjustable and foldable mirrors. The Style Collection (only for the Connected Chic as the Performance Line already includes these items) adds LED Vision xenon headlights, diamond cut alloys and chrome door mirrors.