Dacia is turning a new leaf and releasing their new third-generation Duster which sees enhanced in-car experience, better off-road capabilities, more sustainable materials used, hybrid powertrains and many more improvements which make this family SUV the best value for money.
The Dacia Duster life began in Romania in 1966, their objective was to provide reliable, affordable and modern vehicles, but in 1999 Renault acquired Dacia and the brand started to build success when the Logan launched in 2004 and then in Western Europe in 2005 as this family saloon transformed the automotive market.
The Dacia then launched its first version of the Duster in 2010 which again saw huge success as the SUV offered great off-roading capabilities and brilliant versatility.
To this day the Dacia brand continues to grow and the company operates in over 40 countries and is serving more than 8 million customers. This vehicle in itself stands out from its competitors with its fresh design elements.
DESIGN
Dacia has updated the Duster's design with the car having a more chiselled look than the previous generations beforehand. The SUV has a strong solid balanced posture and is shielded with a stylish belt being wrapped around it.
The all-new Duster's design is consistent and its adventurous character makes it appealing for those people who want a car for different terrains to take on adventure.
Dacia's aim for this car was for the outside and inside to be consistent with each other and the shape of the air vents resemble the wheel arches on the exterior of the vehicle.
This third-generation car has also elevated its levels from previous models on the inside by having y-shaped air vents that imitate the vehicle's headlights and taillights.
The Duster gives a 7-inch customisable colour digital dashboard, as well as a new infotainment system with a 10.1-inch centre touchscreen as standard which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This new duster also comes with cruise control, Bluetooth and rear parking sensors, but only as a basic infotainment.
The vehicle offers automatic transmission controls which are driver-friendly, which makes it an even more appealing option for people looking to lease/buy this car in 2024.
Engines
The Dacia Duster for the first time offers people the choice of hybrid powertrains. The Hybrid 140 model uses a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine alongside a 49bhp electric motor, this model will be able to drive in all-electric mode for up to 80% of the time in cities.
However buyers or people leasing can choose the mild-hybrid TCe 130 model, which uses a 1.2 litre turbocharged three-cylinder engine, which has a smaller 48V motor, this system can't be driven in pure-electric mode, but the car's battery offers an extra force when it comes to acceleration and helps reduce fuel consumption.
Additional information
The all-new duster provides drivers an opportunity to become more eco-friendly it is the first production model to use Starkle - a material invented by Dacia's engineers, which helps reduce the carbon footprint from its production process.
Dacia has also decided to stop using decorative chrome and leather in its models for environmental reasons, the user manual is also smaller which uses less paper and the full version is online.
The newest version of the Duster provides one of the best value for money, the vehicle is more spacious on the inside - especially with the legroom on the back and width at the front, and the boot opening is also wider and higher providing up to 6% extra space (472 liters under the parcel tray).
Dacia's engineers also invented a YouClip a practical system to hold multiple accessories in specific areas in the passenger compartment, they can hold a tablet stand, smartphone or a storage pouch.
Dacia Duster competitors
Nissan Qashqai - The Nissan Qashqai is a compact crossover SUV that has gained popularity since its introduction in 2006. It is known for its stylish design, practicality, and advanced features. The Qashqai offers a comfortable and spacious interior, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys.
It is equipped with various safety technologies and driver-assistance features to enhance the overall driving experience. The Nissan Qashqai has been well-received by consumers and continues to be a popular choice in the compact SUV segment.
Citroen C3 Aircross - The Citroen C3 Aircross is a compact SUV that was first introduced by Citroen in 2017. It is known for its distinctive and bold design, combining SUV styling elements with a compact and practical package. The C3 Aircross offers a spacious and versatile interior, with ample room for passengers and their belongings.
It features a range of advanced technologies and safety features, including touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone connectivity, and driver-assistance systems.
The C3 Aircross is designed to provide a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience, making it suitable for both urban and long-distance journeys.
Nissan Juke - The Nissan Juke is a subcompact crossover SUV that was first introduced by Nissan in 2010. It is known for its unique and eye-catching design, characterized by its bold lines and distinctive front grille. The Juke offers a compact yet spacious interior, providing comfortable seating for both the driver and passengers.
It is equipped with various features and technologies, including touchscreen infotainment systems, smartphone integration, and advanced safety systems. The Juke is designed to provide a fun and agile driving experience, making it suitable for urban environments.
With its combination of style, versatility, and performance, the Nissan Juke has gained popularity among those seeking a compact and distinctive crossover SUV.
Suzuki Vitara - The Suzuki Vitara is a compact SUV that has been in production since 1988. It is known for its reliability, versatility, and off-road capabilities. The Vitara offers a spacious and comfortable interior, with ample room for passengers and cargo.
It is equipped with various features and technologies, including touchscreen infotainment systems, advanced safety systems, and optional all-wheel drive for enhanced traction and control.
The Vitara is designed to provide a smooth and enjoyable driving experience, both on and off the road. With its combination of practicality, affordability, and ruggedness, the Suzuki Vitara has become a popular choice among SUV enthusiasts.
Fiat Panda - The Fiat Panda is a compact city car that was first introduced by Fiat in 1980. It is known for its practicality, affordability, and compact size, making it ideal for navigating urban environments. The Panda offers a functional and versatile interior, with ample space for passengers and their belongings.
It is equipped with various features and technologies, including infotainment systems, connectivity options, and safety features. The Panda is designed to provide a comfortable and efficient driving experience, with its compact dimensions allowing for easy manoeuvrability and parking.
Over the years, the Fiat Panda has become a popular choice for those seeking a practical and economical city car.
Conclusion
The third-generation Duster has improved design, spacious interior, technology and off-road capabilities, to its previous models, the brand still believes this vehicle is really good value for money, and that it will be one of the most affordable in its segment.
This new generation Duster vehicle's price hasn't yet been revealed to the public and this car is also expected to be released at some point in 2024.