The DS 3 first arrived in European showrooms in June 2010

Citroën launched the DS 3 as a premium compact hatchback on June 1, 2010, in France and other Western European markets. The car was built on the same platform as the Citroën C3 but positioned as a more upscale, design-focused alternative with distinctive styling, higher-quality interior materials, and stronger performance options. It reached UK dealerships in September 2010 and gradually expanded to other markets over the following months.

The original DS 3 was designed by Giugiaro and featured a retractable canvas roof panel on certain models, a feature that became one of its signature elements. Citroën marketed it as a fashion-forward city car aimed at younger buyers and urban professionals who wanted something more distinctive than a standard hatchback.

Key Takeaways

  • The first-generation DS 3 launched in June 2010 in France and September 2010 in the UK, built on a modified C3 platform with premium styling and materials.
  • A second-generation DS 3 arrived in 2015 with updated design, new engines, and improved interior technology, replacing the original model.
  • Citroën discontinued the traditional DS 3 hatchback in 2021 to focus on the DS 3 Crossback, a larger SUV-styled variant that launched in 2018.
  • The DS 3 Crossback E-Tense, an electric version, became available in 2019 and represented Citroën's shift toward electrified compact vehicles.
  • Availability and release timing varied significantly by country, with some markets receiving the car months after the initial European launch.

The second-generation DS 3 launched in 2015 with a redesigned body and new powertrains

Citroën introduced the second-generation DS 3 in March 2015, featuring a more angular exterior design, a completely redesigned interior dashboard, and a new range of petrol and diesel engines. The 2015 model retained the compact footprint of the original but added more technology, including an 8-inch touchscreen on higher trim levels and improved driver information features.

This generation also introduced the DS 3 Performance, a sportier variant with a 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 208 horsepower, aimed at buyers who wanted more driving engagement. The standard engines ranged from a 1.2-litre petrol with 110 horsepower to a 1.5-litre diesel option.

The DS 3 Crossback SUV became the focus starting in 2018

In 2018, Citroën launched the DS 3 Crossback, a larger, SUV-styled variant that sat between the compact DS 3 hatchback and the larger DS 7 Crossback. This model featured a raised driving position, increased ground clearance, and a more spacious interior, appealing to buyers who wanted the DS brand's design language but in a taller, more practical package.

The Crossback quickly became Citroën's priority within the DS 3 family. By 2021, the company discontinued the traditional hatchback version to consolidate its lineup around the SUV format, which was selling better in most markets. The Crossback continued to be offered with petrol, diesel, and hybrid powertrains.

The electric DS 3 Crossback E-Tense arrived in 2019

Citroën introduced the DS 3 Crossback E-Tense, a fully electric version, in 2019. This model featured a 50-kilowatt-hour battery pack offering approximately 320 kilometres of range on a single charge under WLTP testing conditions. It was positioned as an entry-level electric option for buyers wanting a premium compact SUV without a combustion engine.

The E-Tense used a single electric motor producing 136 horsepower and was designed for urban and suburban driving rather than long-distance travel. Charging time varied depending on the power source: roughly 30 minutes on a 100-kilowatt DC fast charger or 7 to 8 hours on a standard 7-kilowatt home charger.

Availability varied by region and market timing

The original DS 3 rolled out gradually across Europe between June and December 2010, with France and the UK receiving it first. Other European countries including Germany, Italy, and Spain received stock in the following months. The car was not officially sold in North America, though some examples were imported privately.

When the second generation launched in 2015, the rollout was faster and more coordinated across European markets, with most dealerships receiving inventory within the same quarter. The DS 3 Crossback and its electric variant followed similar patterns, with Western Europe receiving models first and Eastern European markets following several months later.

What happened to the DS 3 after 2021

After discontinuing the traditional hatchback in 2021, Citroën continued selling the DS 3 Crossback as its sole offering under the DS 3 nameplate. The company updated the Crossback in 2023 with a refreshed exterior, new interior trim options, and updated infotainment systems, but the core platform and powertrain lineup remained largely unchanged.

The electric E-Tense variant remained available throughout this period and received a battery upgrade in 2023, increasing range to approximately 360 kilometres. Citroën's strategy shifted toward making the Crossback its primary compact premium vehicle, with plans to introduce additional electrified variants in the coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did the original DS 3 stop being made?

Citroën discontinued the original hatchback version in 2021 to focus on the DS 3 Crossback SUV. The second-generation hatchback had been in production since 2015, so the traditional DS 3 was available for roughly 11 years total.

Is the DS 3 sold in the United States?

No, the DS 3 was never officially sold in North America. Citroën does not have a US dealership network, and the DS brand operates only in Europe and select other markets. Some examples have been privately imported, but they are not covered by manufacturer warranties.

What is the difference between the DS 3 and DS 3 Crossback?

The original DS 3 is a compact hatchback with a low roofline and city-car proportions. The DS 3 Crossback is a taller SUV-styled vehicle with more interior space, higher ground clearance, and a raised driving position. Citroën discontinued the hatchback in 2021 and now sells only the Crossback under the DS 3 name.

How much range does the electric DS 3 Crossback E-Tense have?

The original E-Tense, launched in 2019, offered approximately 320 kilometres of range. A 2023 update increased this to around 360 kilometres under WLTP testing. Actual range depends on driving conditions, temperature, and driving style.

Can you still buy a new DS 3 hatchback?

No, new DS 3 hatchbacks have not been produced since 2021. Used examples from 2015 to 2021 are available on the secondhand market, but Citroën's current DS 3 lineup consists only of the Crossback SUV in petrol, diesel, and electric variants.