THE chic DS 3 hatchback has morphed into a small SUV and gained Crossback in its name as the Citroen-backed brand moves further into the premium motoring category.

Marking its move into the currently fast growing SUV sector, the DS 3 Crossback gains a pair of rear doors over the non-Crossback version and is longer by 178mm too.

Launching with petrol and diesel engine options, the DS 3 Crossback will be available late next year with a purely electric drivetrain too.

DS has made a big effort to give the newcomer a properly upmarket feel inside, with diamond patterned quilting on dash, doors and seats and a big 10 inch touchscreen in the centre of the dash and a digital display for the driver.

Three PureTech petrol engines with 99, 128 and 148bhp will lead off DS 3 Crossback sales, plus a 98bhp diesel.

And the all-electric E-Tense version will arrive at the end of 2019 with a 100kW (134bhp) electric motor and 50kWh battery, which claims a realistic range of around 200 miles under the new WLTP tests. It'll also be compatible with 100kW fast chargers for an 80 per cent charge in around 30 minutes.