A Journey Through Time with the DS 3

4.2 / 5
DS 3
Comfort
8.5
Performance
8.0
Value
7.5
Reliabiliy
7.0
Author
Hans Müller
December 21st, 2022
As a lover of classic cars, I often find myself drawn to the timeless elegance and storied past of vintage vehicles. However, every now and then, a modern car catches my eye, promising to blend contemporary design with a nod to the past. The DS 3 is one such vehicle. With its unique styling and promise of a spirited drive, I decided to take this modern marvel on a trip through some of the most scenic routes, blending my love for history with a touch of modernity.

As I navigated through the narrow streets, the DS 3's nimbleness became evident. The steering was precise, allowing me to weave through traffic with ease. The suspension, though firm, provided a comfortable ride, absorbing the bumps and potholes that London is notorious for. The interior, with its premium materials and attention to detail, offered a sense of luxury that harked back to the grand tourers of yesteryear.

Leaving the city behind, I headed towards the picturesque Cotswolds. The rolling hills and charming villages provided the perfect backdrop for the DS 3. On the open road, the car's turbocharged engine came to life, delivering a burst of power that made overtaking slower vehicles a breeze. The six-speed manual transmission, a rarity in today's world of automatics, offered a tactile and engaging driving experience. Each gear change was a reminder of the joy of driving, a feeling that many modern cars seem to have forgotten.

Stopping at a quaint village pub for lunch, the DS 3 attracted a fair amount of attention. Enthusiasts and curious onlookers alike were drawn to its distinctive design. Conversations inevitably turned to the car's lineage, with many reminiscing about the classic DS and its impact on automotive history. It was clear that the DS 3, despite being a modern car, had managed to capture the imagination of those who appreciated the classics.

Continuing my journey, I ventured towards the winding roads of the Lake District. Here, the DS 3 truly shone. The balanced chassis and responsive handling made tackling the twists and turns an absolute delight. The car felt planted and confident, urging me to push it harder through each corner. The brakes, too, were impressive, providing ample stopping power without any hint of fade.

One of the highlights of the trip was a drive along the Hardknott Pass, one of the steepest roads in England. The DS 3 handled the challenging ascent with aplomb, its turbocharged engine providing the necessary grunt to tackle the steep inclines. The views from the top were breathtaking, a reward for both the car and the driver.

As the journey came to an end, I couldn't help but reflect on the DS 3's ability to blend the old with the new. It offers a driving experience that is both engaging and enjoyable, a rarity in today's world of soulless automatics and electronic nannies. While it may not have the patina of a true classic, the DS 3 has the spirit and character that make it a worthy successor to the iconic DS.

In conclusion, the DS 3 is a car that appeals to both the modern driver and the classic car enthusiast. It offers a unique blend of style, performance, and history, making it a standout choice in a sea of homogenized vehicles. If you're looking for a car that brings a touch of the past into the present, the DS 3 is well worth considering.

Specifications

SpecificationValue
Engine1.2L Turbocharged Inline-3
Horsepower128
Torque230 Nm
Transmission6-speed manual
Fuel typePetrol
Mpg47.9
0-60 mph9.2 seconds
Top speed124 mph
Length3,948 mm
Width1,715 mm
Height1,483 mm
Wheelbase2,467 mm
Curb weight1,165 kg