Used DS DS 3 for sale near Southend-On-Sea

CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.6 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 37.4%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 300
Average Price: Around £7,100

DS 3 Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Distinctive styling	Very limited practicality
Impressive powertrains	Patchy interior quality
Low BIK bills on EV version	Not cheap to buy

Quick Summary

The DS 3 is a small premium crossover that prioritises style and individuality over practicality. With its distinctive design, flush-fitting door handles, and upmarket interior materials, it offers a boutique premium feel that sets it apart from mainstream rivals. The range includes both a Hybrid 145 petrol-electric option and a fully electric E-Tense version with a 54kWh battery offering 248 miles of range. Standard equipment is generous, featuring a 10.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, automatic air conditioning, and LED headlights across the board.

However, the DS 3's practicality is severely compromised by cramped rear seats, a small 350-litre boot, and awkward rear door openings. The ride is composed and comfortable rather than sharp, and whilst the Hybrid 145 feels relaxed in traffic, it can hesitate during acceleration. The E-Tense electric version is more refined and offers significant company car tax benefits, but its sub-250-mile range falls short of some competitors. At its price point, the DS 3 faces stiff competition from more talented rivals that cost considerably less.

Best for: Style-conscious buyers, company car drivers opting for the E-Tense electric version, and those prioritising premium aesthetics over practicality.

Not ideal for: Families needing rear-seat space or boot capacity, buyers seeking sharp handling, or those wanting value for money compared to mainstream alternatives.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the DS 3 if: You prioritise distinctive styling and premium aesthetics, are a company car driver considering the E-Tense electric version, or value upmarket interior materials and generous standard equipment.

Consider alternatives if: You need practical rear-seat space and boot capacity, seek sharp handling dynamics, or want better value for money compared to mainstream competitors.

Competitive Position: The DS 3 occupies an interesting niche as a style-focused premium compact crossover, but it struggles to justify its price against more talented rivals. The Ford Puma outperforms it across all metrics, offering superior handling and practicality at a lower cost. The Audi Q2 provides genuine premium credentials at a comparable price, whilst the Volkswagen T-Cross delivers better value. The DS 3's main strength lies in its distinctive design and low company car tax on the E-Tense version, making it appealing to specific buyer profiles rather than the mass market. For most buyers, however, alternatives offer better all-round capability and value.

Read our full DS 3 Review

*The Overall CarGurus rating: that informs these recommendations is based on CarGurus' proprietary market data from August 2026, CarGurus expert reviews, and CarGurus user reviews.