• Quality up there with best in class
• All models get very modern infotainment
• Spacious, too

How is the quality and layout?

On the surface, the DS 7 looks far removed from its lowlier Citroen siblings, thanks to its high-resolution 12.0-inch infotainment screen, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, plush ‘watchstrap’ leather upholstery and liberal use of soft-touch materials.

Its layout is unusual, too. There aren’t any buttons on the doors – instead, the controls for the electric windows and door locks have been moved onto the centre console. They’re operated via a set of stylish angular rocker switches.

Start digging around, though, and you’ll see where DS has cut some corners. The gear selector, for example, is exactly the same as the unit you’ll find in a Vauxhall Corsa, while the door handles and steering wheel are lifted from a Citroen C4.

Infotainment and tech

Every trim level gets the very posh infotainment screen and digital gauge cluster combo. The screen itself is very high quality. Clean, clear, concise and easy to use for anyone used to a smartphone. Comes with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto too. It’s just a shame that the steering wheel is so large that it blocks a little bit of the right hand side of the screen.

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The digital cluster is customisable and there are a variety of different information points you can get it to show. Top tech reserved for the very posh models includes night vision, ventilated seats and a Focal Hifi system. You’ll have to opt for nearly top spec to get wireless charging, which seems a bit stingy.

Comfort

• Seats are very supportive
• Yet very soft and relaxing
• Most expensive seats are the best

Apart from the cheapest Performance Line model, every version of the DS 7 comes with electrically adjustable and heated front seats as standard. 

Spend a bit more money on the middling Rivoli trim and you can have massaging seats (which have a very good stretch function that stops you from seizing up on the motorway), while the flagship La Premiere model adds an air-conditioning function. They’re all comfortable, striking a keen balance between softness and lateral support and really fit in with the car’s comfort-oriented outlook.

Wind and road noise is kept in check, but a fair amount of engine noise can be heard when the plug-in hybrid models transition from electric to petrol at low speeds.