Dacia, the no-frills brand from Renault known for its budget-friendly offerings, has unveiled the third generation of its popular Duster SUV. While some might have expected a bold, revolutionary redesign, Dacia stays true to its core philosophy with the new Duster, focusing on refinement and subtle improvements while maintaining its value proposition. This first-drive review explores the latest iteration of the Duster, highlighting its updates, strengths, and how it fares against its rivals in the European and UK markets.
Evolutionary Design:
The exterior design of the Duster shows a clear evolution from its predecessor. The overall silhouette remains familiar, but sharper lines and a more contemporary grille give it a refreshed look. New Y-shaped LED headlights and taillights add a touch of modernity, while the revised bumpers and skid plates enhance its rugged appeal. It’s a design that doesn’t break new ground but effectively builds upon the Duster’s established identity.
Stepping Inside:
The interior has undergone more noticeable changes. The cabin layout retains its practicality, but the materials and overall feel have seen a significant upgrade. Dacia has replaced some of the hard plastics with more upscale soft-touch materials, creating a more pleasant and modern ambiance. The new infotainment system with an 8-inch touchscreen is a welcome improvement, offering improved functionality and user experience compared to the previous generation. While not aiming for luxury, the interior feels more refined and in line with expectations in this segment.
Under the Hood:
The most significant update lies under the hood. The new Duster ditches the old naturally aspirated engines and embraces electrification with the introduction of a mild-hybrid powertrain. This system combines a 1.2-liter turbocharged petrol engine with a 48-volt electric motor, delivering 130 horsepower and improved fuel efficiency. While not a full-fledged hybrid, the electric motor provides a slight power boost and helps reduce CO2 emissions. Additionally, Dacia will offer a non-hybrid 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine for those seeking an even more affordable option.
Driving Impressions:
On the road, the new Duster delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. The 1.2-liter turbo engine, with the assistance of the mild-hybrid system, provides adequate power for everyday driving. While not offering the thrill of a high-performance SUV, it’s sufficient for navigating city streets and cruising on highways. The suspension offers a good balance between handling and comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively.
Off-Road Capability:
The Duster has always been known for its decent off-road capabilities, and the new generation continues this tradition. Ground clearance remains impressive, and the available four-wheel drive system with various driving modes allows for venturing off the beaten path. While not intended for hardcore off-roading, the Duster is capable of handling light trails and unpaved roads with confidence.
The Value Proposition:
One of the Duster’s biggest strengths has always been its affordability. This remains true with the new generation, as it is expected to be one of the most affordable SUVs in its segment in Europe and the UK. The base price is likely to remain competitive, and even higher trims with features like the new infotainment system and advanced driver-assistance systems are expected to offer exceptional value for money.
Rivalry in the Arena:
The new Duster faces stiff competition in the European and UK markets, where several established players offer compelling options. Some of its key rivals include:
- Citroën C3 Aircross: This popular SUV offers a quirky design, comfortable ride, and several engine options, including a plug-in hybrid variant.
- Hyundai Kona: The Kona is a well-rounded option with a stylish design, spacious interior, and a range of efficient powertrains, including electric and hybrid options.
- SEAT Arona: Offering a sporty design, fun driving dynamics, and various engine options, the Arona is another strong competitor in this segment.
- Ford EcoSport: This compact SUV offers practicality, affordability, and a range of engine options, making it a popular choice in the UK.
Where Does the Duster Stand?
The new Duster might not be the most exciting or feature-packed SUV on the market, but it stays true to its core strengths – affordability, practicality, and decent off-road capability. The updates in design, interior quality, and the introduction of a mild-hybrid powertrain make it a more compelling package overall. While rivals might offer more features or advanced technology, the Duster is likely to win hearts (and wallets) of budget-conscious buyers looking for a no-frills, reliable SUV that gets the job done.
Conclusion:
The 2024 Dacia Duster isn’t a revolutionary step forward, but rather a well-executed evolution. It retains the core strengths that made the previous generations successful – affordability, practicality, and decent off-road capability – while offering subtle improvements in design, interior quality, and technology. The introduction of the mild-hybrid powertrain is a welcome step towards improved fuel efficiency and future-proofing the Duster in a market increasingly focusing on electrification.
