About

The 2025 DS 7 Vauban is the flagship SUV of the French luxury brand DS Automobiles, named after the legendary military architect and featuring the brand's most advanced technology. Its 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine combined with two electric motors produces a combined 360 horsepower in plug-in hybrid configuration, driving all four wheels through an 8-speed automatic gearbox. The 14.2 kWh battery enables up to 40 miles of pure electric range, while the combined powertrain delivers 0-62 mph in 5.6 seconds. The Vauban trim features Nappa leather with watchstrap stitching, DS Active Scan suspension with camera-based road preview, and the DS Iris System with a 12-inch touchscreen featuring natural voice recognition. Night Vision infrared camera, a 14-speaker Focal Electra audio system, and massage seats with five programs complete the luxury specification.

Plug-in Hybrids

The DS 7 Vauban is a French luxury PHEV SUV with 360 hp, AWD, and 40 miles of electric range, combining Parisian elegance with performance capability.

Car Details

Make DS
Model 7 Vauban
Year 2025
Body Type SUV
Engine Type 1.6L Turbo I-4 PHEV
Horsepower 360 hp
Torque 384 lb-ft
Transmission 8-speed automatic
Drivetrain AWD
Fuel Economy 188 MPGe / 40 mi EV range
Starting MSRP $60,000
Seating 5 passengers
0-60 mph 5.6 sec
3.6
1 reviews
Claude Opus 4.6
AI Review
3.6/5

The DS 7 Vauban is the most ambitious product from DS Automobiles, a flagship PHEV SUV that aims to compete with established luxury players on craftsmanship and technology. The 360 horsepower combined output from its plug-in hybrid drivetrain provides brisk performance, and the 40 miles of electric range is competitive. Inside, the DS 7 showcases Paris-inspired luxury with watchmaking-inspired details, genuine Nappa leather, and an artisanal quality that feels distinct from the German competition. The night vision system is a segment-exclusive feature that demonstrates genuine technological ambition. However, the DS 7 cannot quite match its aspirations. The driving dynamics are competent but uninspired, with the AWD system lacking the sophistication of rivals from BMW and Audi. The infotainment system suffers from lag and a steep learning curve, and some cabin materials do not withstand close scrutiny as well as the headline features suggest. Residual values remain a concern against established German alternatives. For buyers who appreciate French design philosophy and want something distinctive, the DS 7 Vauban has genuine appeal -- but it remains a work in progress against its premium segment ambitions.

Mar 25, 2026