The Duster plays a special role at Dacia. Launched in 2010, it introduced a grain of originality into the range of this manufacturer specializing in affordable models but which until then cultivated a strictly rational – in other words not very attractive – relationship with the automobile. Gently potbellied while its competitors try not to remind too much of their affiliation with the 4 x 4 heritage, the Duster, whose average purchase price reaches 27,000 euros in Europe, has attracted a wealthier, older and more focused on options than the rest of the clientele of the brand of Romanian origin, owned by Renault.
It will therefore come as no surprise that the third generation of this model, which will be marketed from June, accentuates what increasingly looks like Dacia leaving its low-cost orbit. This wagon no longer only wants to be chosen for its vast interior volume, its high position on the road or its slightly rough side which gives it a false, slightly rebellious air, but also for its style.
The designers put tension on its lines, deepened the ribs of the hood, refined the headlights, worked on the trim of the side surfaces to visually lengthen the car and slightly reduced the glass surface. It’s always about being robust, but also about asserting a presence. It is not because we are a so-called “low-cost” car that we must adopt a wall-passing look.
Diesel is now banned
The technical sheet of the new Duster confirms that the time for frugality is no longer at Dacia. Designed on a new platform, it improves in habitability without taking additional centimeters on the exterior and accommodates new engines. Diesel, which represented 15% of sales of the previous generation, is now banned (except in Morocco where the model is manufactured) and is being replaced by a 1.2 liter gasoline engine (130 hp) with a system mild hybridization and another, full hybrid, developing 140 hp. Without forgetting the traditional 100 hp LPG version. Already amortized, these mechanics inherited from the parent company Renault make it possible to meet the objectives of reducing CO emissions.2 while improving driving pleasure.
The renewal of the platform has made it possible to firm up the running gear (a little too zealously, sometimes) to limit body movements, and contributes to making the vehicle less noisy. The Duster adopts new driving aids (lane keeping, recognition of speed limit signs, for example) and improves the crossing capabilities of its four-wheel drive version.
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