Should you buy one?

If you’re buying an electric car with your sensible hat on, probably not. You get a lot more value for money from the Kia Niro EV and Hyundai Kona. Elon Musk’s latest round of price cuts for the Tesla Model 3 has also decimated the business case for a lot of small EVs, including the DS 3 E-Tense.

You can now have a Model 3 for around £1,000 more than the cheapest DS 3 E-Tense, but the Tesla is much more practical, loaded with more impressive technology and it has a longer range. It’s faster, too – and it’s already cornered the premium image that DS is fighting so hard for.

However, if you want a small, left-field premium electric SUV (and you don’t really care about practicality) the DS 3 E-Tense could serve you well. It’s at least worth visiting your local DS Store to experience the premium customer service on offer. Just don’t forget about the mechanically identical Peugeot e-2008 and Vauxhall Mokka Electric on your way there.

What we like

It’s different. The DS 3 E-Tense has unusual styling, an odd interior and, as an emerging premium brand, a fresh furrow to plough. It’s also quiet on the motorway and composed once you’re out of town. We like the material choice in the cabin, too – all the common touchpoints feel expensive.

What we don’t like

The low-speed ride isn’t great and it isn’t as nimble as the petrol model. The interior is also very cramped and the layout leaves a lot to be desired. The infotainment screen is facing the wrong way for heaven’s sake – and you’ll find the driving position uncomfortable if you’re tall.

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