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DS Automobiles DS 3 vs Renault Captur comparison

Compare performance (156 HP vs 158 HP), boot space and price (29,000 £ vs 21,400 £ ) at a glance. Find out which car is the better choice for you – DS Automobiles DS 3 or Renault Captur?

DS Automobiles DS 3 vs Renault Captur: Key differences

DS Automobiles DS 3

  • barely lighter
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Renault Captur

4.8 (7 Reviews)
rate
  • visibly cheaper
  • only slightly more power
  • somewhat more efficient
  • marginally quicker 0–100 km/h
  • a bit more trunk space
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All details on performance, efficiency, range and trunk space can be found in the technical comparison below – including user reviews for both models.

By Achim Sedelmaier

DS 3

Urban Elegance: DS 3 VS Renault Captur

In the bustling world of compact SUVs, two models stand out for their style and innovation: the DS 3 from DS Automobiles and the Renault Captur. Both cars promise a blend of elegance, performance, and cutting-edge technology, but which one takes the lead in the modern urban landscape?

Captur

Design and Dimensions

The DS 3 embraces a sleek and sophisticated design. With a length of 4118 mm, width of 1791 mm, and a height of 1534 mm, it exudes a refined, compact persona that suits city life. In comparison, the Renault Captur stretches slightly longer at 4239 mm and is marginally wider and taller, providing an assertive presence that easily captures attention.

DS 3

Powertrain and Performance

Both vehicles offer a diversified portfolio of powertrains, covering a spectrum of consumer needs and preferences. The DS 3 brings forth a set of diesel, petrol MHEV, and electric options, achieving power outputs ranging from 130 to 156 HP. Notably, its electric model offers an impressive range of 400 km on a single charge.

On the other hand, the Captur showcases a myriad of engine types, including full hybrid and LPG options, with power capabilities spanning 91 to 158 HP. Although less environmentally ambitious than its rival, the hybrid configuration marks a versatile offering in Renault's lineup.

Captur

Transmission and Drivability

The DS 3 is available exclusively with an automatic transmission, whether through its conventional automatic gearbox or the sophisticated dual-clutch and reduction gear systems. This setup fosters a smooth and responsive driving experience, harmonious with its urban luxury theme.

The Captur provides the flexibility of both manual and automatic transmissions, catering to a wider range of driving preferences. The inclusion of a manual gearbox option could be key for those desiring a more hands-on driving experience.

DS 3

Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Efficiency is a cornerstone of both models, albeit approached from slightly different angles. The DS 3 achieves an optimal blend of performance and fuel economy, with diesel consumption at 5 to 5.2 L/100km and an all-electric variant consuming 15.5 kWh/100km while emitting zero CO2.

The Captur stakes its claim with a full hybrid variant consuming as little as 4.7 L/100km. However, CO2 emissions across its petrol and LPG engines remain slightly higher, highlighting an area for potential improvement.

Captur

Space and Practicality

When it comes to space, the Captur shines with an impressive trunk capacity of up to 422 liters, outpacing the DS 3’s 350 liters. This advantage may appeal to families and adventurers needing more cargo space without sacrificing on style and agility.

DS 3

Conclusion

The DS 3 and Renault Captur both make compelling cases in the compact SUV market. The DS 3 leans on premium touches and electric innovation to attract the eco-conscious urbanite, while the Renault Captur balances versatility and practicality with its diverse range of powertrains and spacious design.

Ultimately, the choice between these two will hinge on individual priorities—whether that’s embracing advanced electric mobility with DS Automobiles or opting for the adaptable and spacious design that the Renault Captur offers.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

DS 3

Costs and Efficiency:

Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.

Renault Captur is visibly cheaper – starting at 21,400 £ , while the DS Automobiles DS 3 costs 29,000 £ . That’s a price difference of around 7,663 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: the Renault Captur uses 4.4 L/100km and is somewhat more efficient than the DS Automobiles DS 3 with 5 L/100km. The difference is about 0.6 L/100km.

Captur

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration are the classic benchmarks for car enthusiasts – and here, some clear differences start to show.

When it comes to engine power, the Renault Captur offers only slightly more power – delivering 158 HP compared to 156 HP. That’s roughly 2 HP more horsepower.

When accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h, the Renault Captur is marginally quicker – completing the sprint in 8.9 s, while the DS Automobiles DS 3 takes 9.1 s. That’s about 0.2 s quicker.

There’s also a difference in torque: the Renault Captur delivers only slightly more torque with 265 Nm compared to 260 Nm. That’s about 5 Nm more.

DS 3

Space and Everyday Use:

Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In terms of curb weight, DS Automobiles DS 3 is barely lighter – 1,249 kg compared to 1,323 kg. The difference is around 74 kg.

Looking at boot space, the Renault Captur offers a bit more boot space – 422 L compared to 350 L. That’s a difference of about 72 L.

When it comes to payload, the DS Automobiles DS 3 carries only slightly more – 466 kg compared to 453 kg. That’s a difference of about 13 kg.

Who wins the race in the data check?

The Renault Captur comes out modestly ahead in the objective data comparison.
This result only shows which model scores more points on paper – not which of the two cars feels right for you.

from £21,400
Captur

Renault Captur

  • Engine Type : Full Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
  • Transmission : Automatic, Manuel
  • Drive Type : Front-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 115 - 158 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 4.4 - 6 L/100km
DS Automobiles DS 3
Renault Captur

Costs and Consumption

View detailed analysis

Engine and Performance

View detailed analysis

Dimensions and Body

View detailed analysis

DS Automobiles DS 3

The DS 3 is a chic, compact premium hatch that stands out with couture styling and an interior that feels more boutique than bargain-bin. It serves up a poised, city-friendly drive with plenty of French flair — ideal for buyers who want personality as much as practicality and don’t mind turning heads at the lights.

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Renault Captur

The Renault Captur is a stylish and practical compact crossover that combines a high seating position and easy manoeuvrability with a comfortable, well‑equipped cabin. Its flexible interior layout and modern infotainment make it a sensible, polished choice for city drivers and small families.

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DS Automobiles DS 3
Renault Captur

Costs and Consumption

Price
29,000 - 36,100 £
Price
21,400 - 28,400 £
Consumption L/100km
5 L/100km
Consumption L/100km
4.4 - 6 L/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
15.5 kWh/100km
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
400 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
-
Battery Capacity
-
co2
0 - 112 g/km
co2
100 - 137 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
-
Fuel tank capacity
-

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
SUV
Body Type
SUV
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
-
Doors
-
Curb weight
1,249 - 1,646 kg
Curb weight
1,323 - 1,441 kg
Trunk capacity
350 L
Trunk capacity
326 - 422 L
Length
-
Length
-
Width
1,791 mm
Width
1,797 mm
Height
-
Height
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Max trunk capacity
-
Payload
362 - 466 kg
Payload
447 - 453 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Electric
Engine Type
Full Hybrid, Petrol, Petrol MHEV
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Reduction Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox, Manual Gearbox, Dual-Clutch Automatic
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
Power HP
145 - 156 HP
Power HP
115 - 158 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.1 - 9.2 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.9 - 12.3 s
Max Speed
-
Max Speed
-
Torque
230 - 260 Nm
Torque
160 - 265 Nm
Number of Cylinders
3
Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
Power kW
107 - 115 kW
Power kW
84 - 116 kW
Engine capacity
1,199 cm3
Engine capacity
1,199 - 1,789 cm3

General

Model Year
2025
Model Year
2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, A
CO2 Efficiency Class
C, D, E
Brand
DS Automobiles
Brand
Renault
DriveDuel uses data analysis and artificial intelligence to evaluate vehicle data and create content. Content is regularly reviewed and improved. The displayed prices are estimates based on German list prices, adjusted to the respective country’s VAT. Country-specific registration taxes are not included. This information is not legally binding.