The Art of Luxury Issue 39 2019 | Page 41

AUTOMOTIVE The mode of transport was the DS 3 CROSSBACK, a B-segment SUV oozing style and sophistication. Upon first thoughts you instantly recognise certain styling elements from the Citroen DS 3, such as the shark fin in between the front and rear glass on the side of the car, but this is where the similarities end. The CROSSBACK 3 is a far taller, more confident car on the road. The presence it holds on the road is notable. With 10 different body colours, and 5 different DS Inspirations to choose from, you are certainly encouraged to make your mark with the materials inside and outside being completely customisable – which at this price point really does feel original. I was keen to get to grips with the technology that DS Automobiles quite rightfully champion. The first, and possibly most obvious being the DS MATRIX LED VISION, a block of LEDs divided into 15 segments that illuminate the road ahead. What’s more, the headlamps can be left on full beam even against oncoming traffic due to an in-built camera in the windscreen that detects oncoming cars. The segments then individually dim to leave the oncoming driver in a void of light that floats by as they pass. It really must be seen to be believed. Like many people, I’ve always grown up being slightly terrified of a robot revolution. I’ve always imagined one of the biggest differences between mine and future generations would be the level of trust in technology, and I most certainly never imagined I would be comfortable with a computer system taking control of my car. Issue 39 2019 The Art of Luxury 41