Used DS DS 3 for sale near Ilford

CarGurus expert rating: 2 out of 5
CarGurus user rating: 4.4 out of 5
Percentage of good/great deals available on CarGurus: 33.8%
Overall CarGurus rating:* 3.9 out of 5
Available Listings: Around 200
Average Price: Around £4,700

DS 3 (2023-present) 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 (2023-present) is a stylish small crossover SUV that seeks to stand out from its rivals with unconventional avant-garde design and premium positioning. The latest facelift brings a refreshed appearance whilst maintaining the car's distinctive character. Two turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol engines are available, with the 128bhp version paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission delivering surprising grunt and a characterful drive. The all-electric E-Tense variant offers 153bhp, an improved 54kWh battery providing up to 250 miles of WLTP range, and impressive refinement with standard heat pump technology for enhanced cold-weather performance.

However, the DS 3's appeal is tempered by significant practicality shortcomings. Rear legroom and headroom are extremely tight, the 350-litre boot is small with a high load lip, and the distinctive shark-fin design blocks part of the rear window, creating a claustrophobic feel. Interior quality is patchy in places, and the premium pricing sits uncomfortably close to genuine premium rivals like the Audi Q2. That said, company car drivers considering the E-Tense will benefit from exceptionally low BIK taxation, making it a sensible financial choice despite its limitations.

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

Not ideal for: Families needing rear passenger space or boot capacity, buyers seeking genuine value for money, or those requiring a practical everyday workhorse.


Comparison vs Key Rivals



The Verdict

You should buy the DS 3 if: You prioritise distinctive styling and premium ambience, you're a company car driver considering the E-Tense electric version, or you value luxury equipment and impressive powertrains over practicality.

Consider alternatives if: You need genuine rear passenger space, require a spacious boot, seek better value for money, or prioritise driving dynamics and everyday practicality.

Competitive Position: The DS 3 occupies an interesting but challenging position in the small SUV market. Whilst it delivers distinctive design and impressive powertrains, it struggles to justify its premium pricing against more practical and better-value rivals. The Ford Puma offers superior driving dynamics and practicality, the Audi Q2 provides genuine premium credentials, and the Volkswagen T-Cross delivers better value. However, for style-conscious buyers and company car drivers drawn to the E-Tense's low BIK taxation, the DS 3 presents a compelling, if unconventional, proposition.

Read our full DS 3 Review

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