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Used DS 3 for Sale

Chic and compact, the used DS DS 3 is a premium supermini that blends nimble city handling with a comfortable, well-trimmed cabin and useful tech. Ideal for commuters and style-conscious drivers, browse fully checked second hand examples with Vertu's 14-day money-back guarantee and flexible finance, Find your next used DS DS 3 for sale with Vertu.

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Used DS 3: Buyer's Guide

The DS 3 invites you into a world of Parisian chic and avant-garde luxury, capturing the essence of high fashion by wrapping you in a cocoon of premium materials. With its advanced technology and potent electric powertrain option, it delivers a driving experience that is both sophisticated and composed. Its competitive running costs, particularly in the electric E-Tense model with its 198-mile range, make it a rational purchase for the style-conscious buyer.

Used DS 3 Popular Trims

  • Performance Line: A fantastic starting point with a sporty, Alcantara-trimmed interior. It includes 17-inch alloys and a digital instrument cluster to keep you connected in style.

  • Prestige: Elevates the experience with Nappa leather upholstery and a larger 10-inch display. The diamond-quilted seats are a delightful touch of luxury, striking a good balance between cost and comfort.

  • Ultra Prestige: The ultimate expression of luxury. Sink into watchstrap leather seats and enjoy the advanced Matrix LED lighting technology, maximizing the car's technological appeal.

Used DS 3 Popular Battery & Drivetrain Options

  • 1.2 PureTech 100: A punchy and refined 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine producing 100 hp. It is the most affordable option to buy and run, achieving up to 49 mpg, perfect for a relaxed pace.

  • 1.2 PureTech 130: A more powerful 1.2-litre petrol unit with 130 hp. It offers effortless overtaking power, making motorway journeys even more relaxing by reducing the need to work the engine hard.

  • E-Tense Electric: The flagship powertrain with a 50kWh battery. Drive in near-silence on electric power for up to 198 miles, making it the tax-efficient choice with zero tailpipe emissions.

Used DS 3 Practicality

Style meets substance in the DS 3's thoughtfully designed interior, proving that compact dimensions do not have to compromise usability.

  • Boot Space: A useful 350 litres swallows shopping bags or a weekend case with ease, expanding to 1,050 litres with rear seats folded.

  • Dimensions: The compact length of 4,118 mm makes it agile and easy to park in tight city spaces.

  • Access: Flush door handles pop out to greet you, making entry effortless and theatrical.

Used DS 3 Key Features

Standard equipment is generous, but there are some key options that add significant value and define the DS 3's character.

Key Features:

  • Flush Door Handles: Standard across the range, adding a touch of theatre and aerodynamic efficiency.

  • 7-inch Touchscreen: Includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless connectivity.

  • Safety Tech: Standard lane-keeping assist and speed limit recognition provide peace of mind.

Desirable Options:

  • Matrix LED Vision: Automatically adjusts the beam pattern for optimal visibility without dazzling others.

  • Focal Electra Sound System: Upgrade the audio for a concert-hall experience on the move.

Used DS 3 Reliability Rating

The DS 3 is built on a platform shared with other Stellantis vehicles, suggesting solid long-term durability. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your DS 3 is built to modern standards of quality.

What to Check on a Test Drive:

  • Infotainment Screen: Check that the touchscreen responds quickly to inputs and connects to your phone seamlessly.

  • Door Handles: Ensure the flush door handles deploy and retract smoothly as you approach and leave the vehicle.

  • Suspension: Listen for any unusual noises when driving over bumps to ensure the suspension is functioning correctly.

  • Electric Motor: On the E-Tense, check the acceleration is smooth and the regenerative braking feels natural.

Used DS 3 Safety Rating

Travel with confidence, protected by a suite of intelligent safety systems verified by independent testing.

  • Euro NCAP Rating: Awarded 5 stars in 2019 with the safety pack, reflecting strong performance in adult and child protection.

  • Active Safety: Features like blind-spot monitoring act as an extra pair of eyes, while Active Safety Brake detects obstacles to prevent collisions.

  • Occupant Protection: Scored a high 96% for adult occupant protection and 86% for child occupant protection.

Awards for the Used DS 3

The industry has recognised the DS 3's successful entry into the premium compact SUV market with several accolades.

  • Design Award: Praised for its distinctive and avant-garde styling.

  • Small SUV of the Year: Awarded for its unique design and premium feel.

  • Innovation Award: Cites the lighting technology and flush door handles as key differentiators.

Who is the Used DS 3 Best For?

  • Urban Commuters: The compact size and light steering make it perfect for city driving.

  • Style-Conscious Drivers: The unique design stands out from the crowd, reflecting personal style.

  • Eco-Conscious Drivers: The E-Tense model offers zero-emission driving without compromising on luxury.

Key Alternatives to Consider:

  • Audi Q2: Offers a more premium badge but can be more expensive to buy.

  • Mini Countryman: More fun to drive but has a firmer ride compared to the comfort-focused DS 3.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Used DS 3

How comfortable is the ride quality in the DS 3?

The DS 3 is engineered to prioritise comfort, featuring a suspension setup that effectively absorbs road imperfections for a relaxing drive.

  • Suspension Tuning: The soft suspension is designed to soak up potholes and bumps, particularly in urban environments.

  • Seat Comfort: High-density foam in the seats provides excellent support and comfort on longer journeys.

  • Urban Driving: The ride quality is especially compliant at lower speeds, making it ideal for city driving.

Does the DS 3 offer a quiet and refined driving experience?

Yes, the DS 3 is designed to be a quiet and refined vehicle, with specific features to minimise external noise.

  • Acoustic Insulation: An acoustic windscreen and thick glass in the doors help to significantly reduce wind and road noise.

  • Cabin Serenity: The focus on sound deadening creates a calm and peaceful environment for all occupants.

  • Engine Refinement: The petrol engines are generally quiet at cruising speeds, contributing to the overall sense of refinement.

Is the DS 3 suitable for long-distance motorway driving?

The DS 3 is a capable long-distance cruiser, offering stability and comfort features that reduce driver fatigue.

  • Motorway Stability: The car feels composed and secure at higher speeds, allowing for relaxed motorway progress.

  • Driver Aids: Features like active cruise control and lane position assist help maintain a steady course on long drives.

  • Ride Quality: The soft suspension continues to provide a comfortable ride even at motorway speeds.

What type of charging cable does the electric DS 3 E-Tense use?

The electric DS 3 E-Tense utilises a standard Type 2 connector for AC charging and CCS for rapid DC charging.

  • Home Charging: Cost depends on your home tariff x 50kWh battery size, with a full charge typically taking around 7.5 hours on a 7kW wallbox.

  • Rapid Charging: The vehicle supports rapid charging, allowing for a 0-80% charge in approximately 30 minutes at a 100kW station.

  • Cable Compatibility: It is compatible with Type 2 cables for public AC chargers and CCS cables for rapid chargers.

How does the infotainment system work in the DS 3?

The DS 3 features a visually distinctive infotainment system controlled via a central touchscreen and unique diamond-shaped shortcut buttons.

  • Touchscreen Interface: A 7-inch or 10.3-inch HD touchscreen provides access to navigation, media, and vehicle settings.

  • Shortcut Buttons: Touch-sensitive buttons on the dashboard allow for quick access to key menus like climate and audio.

  • Digital Cockpit: A 7-inch digital instrument cluster displays essential driving information directly in the driver's line of sight.

Is the DS 3 compatible with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?

Yes, the DS 3 includes smartphone integration features to seamlessly connect your device to the car's infotainment system.

  • Smartphone Integration: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard across the range, allowing you to mirror your phone's apps.

  • Navigation: You can use your preferred navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze directly on the central touchscreen.

  • Connectivity: This feature ensures you can stay connected and access your music and contacts safely while driving.

What are the running costs for the electric DS 3 E-Tense?

The electric DS 3 E-Tense offers very low running costs, making it an economical choice for daily driving.

  • Electric Range: The 50kWh battery provides a WLTP range of up to 198 miles on a single charge.

  • Tax Benefits: Zero tailpipe emissions mean the vehicle currently attracts a £0 VED tax rate in the first year.

  • Charging Costs: Charging at home is significantly cheaper than refuelling a petrol or diesel car, reducing per-mile costs.

Does the DS 3 have physical controls for climate and volume?

The DS 3 utilises a combination of touch-sensitive buttons and touchscreen menus for climate and volume control.

  • Dashboard Controls: Diamond-shaped touch-sensitive buttons on the dashboard provide shortcuts to the climate control menu.

  • Touchscreen Adjustment: Temperature and fan speed are adjusted via the central touchscreen interface.

  • Steering Wheel Controls: Volume and media can be easily adjusted using the physical buttons on the steering wheel.

How spacious is the rear legroom in the DS 3?

The DS 3 offers a cosy rear cabin environment suitable for children or smaller adults on shorter journeys.

  • Passenger Space: The rear seats are designed to accommodate two passengers comfortably.

  • Interior Layout: The unique design prioritises front-seat comfort while providing adequate space in the rear.

  • Boot Capacity: The 350-litre boot provides practical storage space for daily essentials and shopping.