What’s hot?

Even though the updated model hasn’t evolved much, it’s still one of the most eye-catching superminis around. The shark fin B-pillar and 3D effect headlights make it stand out in a busy marketplace.

Like before the roof on the Cabrio version can be lowered and closed at up to speeds of 75mph, creating a light and airy cabin.

DS has focused on performance with the new 1.6 THP version. The four-cylinder turbo now produces 10bhp more than the outgoing motor and better fuel economy, too.

Economy is up 18% with DS claiming 50.4mpg and 129g/km of CO2. Those figures attract an 18% BIK rating with the 20 and 40% taxpayer having to cough up £614 and £1,247per year respectively.

The 165THP model is the hottest version of the DS 3 excluding the bonkers Racing edition. The four-cylinder engine is real eager performer, with the bulk of power available from only 1,400rpm.

In-gear pace is strong and the turbocharged motor makes a purposeful noise for a four-cylinder when you reach the top of the rev range. Changes from the six-speed manual are notchy and not as slick as rivals.

But the steering is sharp and responsive, with ample grip from the front end.

There’s also huge amounts of customisation available to buyers, too. Different roof, body and interior trim colours can be specced by buyers to make it a real personal purchase.

The cabin also has a far more upmarket and premium image than rivals but there is some cheaper looking plastics and material lurking around if you look hard enough.

What’s not?

It’s still rather expensive. Our Dsport Cabrio model came in at a whopping £21,345 which is a lot of money for a supermini.

If you go for the Cabrio model the DS 3 also comes with a rather unconventional boot arrangement. The letterbox-style opening is narrow which can make it difficult to load and unload awkwardly shaped items.

With the roof lowered it also dramatically affects rear visibility, reducing your view out of the back to your wing mirrors only.

For a supermini, the DS 3 isn’t the most spacious either. There’s decent space up front but for the those I the back it can be a little tight.