DS N°7 electric: 740 km range and haute-couture interior

DS’s best-selling model, the DS7, is handing over to the N°7. The French SUV is bringing itself up to date while substantially electrifying its line-up. Its flagship version claims a record 740 km range.

Our DS7 video review

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“A fastback roof is the best aerodynamic solution for larger vehicles.” Thierry Métroz, DS design director, proudly explains the decision to use such a sharply sloping roofline. He has clearly anticipated one of my questions: how can the DS N°7 travel 740 km in one go when the technically related Peugeot 3008 runs out of steam at 680 km?

DS does not describe it as an SUV coupé, yet seeing it in person almost suggests otherwise. Its compressed rear end reaches my upper chest. Together with other aerodynamic measures - streamlined wheels, active grille shutters and an underbody fairing - it achieves a drag coefficient of 0.26. That is essential for gaining “free range”, according to the designer.

DS N°7 vs Peugeot e-3008: why the premium French cousin goes further

If the 740 km claimed from the French ACC-made 97 kWh battery seems excessive, a more modest 74 kWh option will also be offered. Its range falls to 543 km, and this battery will be supplied by Chinese firm BYD. Does that undermine the French approach to long-distance travel? Not so fast: according to the brand’s product director, Sylvain Champomier, a French equivalent is planned.

At the other end of the range sits the AWD flagship. In other words, it combines four-wheel drive with the 97 kWh battery. Range drops to 679 km, but output rises to 350 hp thanks to its two electric motors. Unlike the N°8 saloon, the N°7 will also offer a 145 hp mild-hybrid powertrain. It should appeal to buyers still hesitant about making the full switch to electric power. There will, however, be no diesel option.

Version	Standard Range	Long Range	Long Range AWD	Mild hybrid
Power	230 hp	245 hp	350 hp	145 hp
Battery	73 kWh	97 kWh	97 kWh	0.43 kWh
Range	543 km	740 km	679 km	1,040 km

400V platform: DS’s way of charging quickly without 800V technology

Another hybrid variant will join the range as well. Plug-in hybrid? Full hybrid? Mild hybrid? The product director is keeping the details under wraps for now. What is clear is that, in his view, an 800V platform is not essential. All that is needed is a charging curve with a sufficiently long, stable plateau to make charging effective. This is a strategy already seen on the N°8 that we tested.

Certainly, 160 kW on a DC charger is far from a record. DS nevertheless says that this output can be sustained between 20 and 55% charge. In theory, that would restore almost 200 km of range in 10 minutes. We are keen to put that claim to the test. Winter should not present a problem either, as automatic battery preconditioning should also cut charging times in low temperatures.

Bracelet leather and pearl stitching: an interior to worry the Germans

In styling terms, the DS N°7 is essentially a raised N°8, complete with its collection of distinctive details. Its long bonnet flows down to a vertical grille that can be backlit. The diamond-point Matrix LED headlights provide a distinctive signature, while flush door handles and concealed window trims make the profile cleaner. Wheels ranging from 19 to 21 inches are matched with a rear end featuring the scaled-effect lights borrowed from the N°8.

The cabin once again showcases DS’s expertise in interior design. Borrowing the N°8’s architecture, its dashboard sets a benchmark for finish quality. Surrounded by leather, Alcantara, watchstrap-style upholstery, engine-turned aluminium and pearl stitching, the eye will find no lack of effort. As in the N°8, however, the infotainment system displayed on a 16-inch screen is not among the most capable.

DS N°7 dimensions

Measurement	Figure
Length	4.66 m
Width	1.90 m
Height	1.63 m
Wheelbase	2.79 m
Boot capacity	560 litres

560 litres and generous space: could this French SUV become the family benchmark?

Despite the pronounced falling roofline, rear-seat space remains accommodating, with plenty of legroom and headroom. Passengers’ legs do sit slightly raised because the battery is integrated into the floor. Hybrid versions promise a better seating position. There is also a small central tunnel to note. Its 560-litre boot is among the largest in the segment. There is no front storage compartment, however, because of the multi-energy platform.

Semi-autonomous driving, a 14-speaker Focal sound system, heated, massaging and ventilated seats with neck heating, a head-up display and a digital rear-view mirror: equipment levels are extensive, with a few class-exclusive treats including night vision and camera-controlled suspension. Four trim levels are planned, although prices remain unknown. Order books for the new DS N°7 will open in May.

Our verdict on the electric DS N°7

We had doubts about the N°8’s prospects because of its unusual format. The arrival of this N°7, which carries over its key attributes in a more conventional SUV body, is therefore reassuring. Its design remains distinctive without being baffling, while the meticulously finished cabin continues to impress for the right reasons. It will not set charging-station records, but the N°7 promises stress-free journeys thanks to its substantial range.

So, with its 740 km range and haute-couture interior, does this DS N°7 finally have what it takes to make you forget Tesla and the German brands? We look forward to your thoughts in the comments!