DS 3 Performance, the most sporty bet of DS

The luxurious French brand of the PSA Group shows us the only variant with sporty genes in its range, the DS 3 Performance. It combines the distinctive styling of the small French model with a dynamic tuning, in which the 2015 Portuguese Rally Champion (driving a DS 3 R5) and his current co-driver, Ines Ponte, have had an influence, working together with the brand’s sporty subsidiary, DS Performance.

On the exterior, we don’t find very noticeable aesthetic changes, although there are some. The main differences compared to a conventional DS 3 are the double exhaust outlet, the 18-inch diamond-cut black alloy wheels, bright black front brake calipers and the DS Performance lettering.

In its cabin, it stands out for a sportier atmosphere with semi-bucket seats upholstered in leather and Alcantara, a specific instrument cluster and the words DS Performance on the dashboard.

For its engine, it uses the well-known 1.6 THP block with Stop&Start producing 208 CV, which we have already seen in other models of the group such as the Peugeot 208 GTi. Its torque is 300 Nm and it is paired with a 6-speed gearbox with a transmission ratio specific to this model, and with a Torsen-type limited-slip differential, which considerably improves traction when exiting slow corners and when pulling away from a standstill.

To achieve greater agility, safety and faster cornering, DS Performance has widened the track by 26 mm at the front and 14 mm at the rear, and has reduced the ground clearance of the bodywork by 15 mm. They have also improved the braking system, increasing the brake disc diameter up to 323 mm at the front and 249 mm at the rear. On the front axle, the brake calipers are specific to this model.

The DS 3 Performance is available both as a hatchback and as a Cabrio version with a retractable soft top. The saloon version is available in two trim levels, while the convertible only comes in the top one of the hatchback; although the changes from one trim to another are practically only aesthetic.

Source | DS