DS #Automobiles is preparing the arrival of a new premium #SUV in 2017, which will take the battle to the Mercedes-Benz GLC, #BMW X3 and Audi Q5.

Confirmed to AutoExpress by PSA's Europe Director Maxime Picat, the vehicle is just the first in a long string to come from the French brand, and it will be followed by a DS 3-based crossover, in 2018, expected to turn to the Wild Rubis Concept, shown in Shanghai three years ago, for inspiration.

Additionally, DS is set to become the first brand in the PSA Group to go for a zero-emissions car, but unlike the competition, which offers specific EV models, the French will allow their customers to choose between different powertrains, from 2019 forwards.

"We will push plug-in hybrid in higher segments and electric in smaller segments, like the B-segment or B-SUV", Picat said. "There will be no specific car fully electric or fully hybrid; you will always have a choice of solution."

This means that DS's Audi Q5 rival will get a plug-in hybrid option, while the smaller DS 3-based crossover will gain an electric powertrain.

On top of these, the car company is also looking to roll out a new generation of the DS 3 in late 2017, which will serve as a basis for the aforementioned crossover. Rumor has it that it will gain an improved chassis and a striking exterior design.

A DS 4 hatch is seen in the automaker's lineup further down the road, in 2019, inspired by the 2014 Divine Concept, and joined, at the turn of the decade, by the Luxury GT, previewed by the Numero 9 study shown four years ago. The latter will be aimed primarily at the Chinese market and will be the final one to arrive.

Note: DS Wild Rubis Concept pictured