New Dacia Duster: Giant leap, but only hybrid maximum
The new Duster will be able to continue the success of its predecessor, both visually and technically taking a huge step forward. Built on the CMF-B platform, it offers even more space for passengers and luggage than the previous generation while being only slightly longer. The new model measures 4,343 millimeters in length, 1,813 millimeters in width, and stands 1,656 millimeters tall. The new Duster aims to offer not only the best price-performance ratio but also the best price-space ratio in its segment, as the switch to the CMF-B platform has created more interior space - especially in width at the front and legroom at the back (+30 millimeters). Additionally, the trunk floor is lower, and the trunk opening is wider and higher. The luggage compartment itself is also wider and higher, offering up to six percent more space at 472 liters according to the VDA standard (in the new Duster 4x2).
More Comfort, Higher-Quality Equipment Details
The new Duster is also equipped with a range of comfort elements that make life on board easier. The electric parking brake is standard in the "Journey" trim and available as an option for the "Extreme" trim. "Extreme" and "Journey" also come with power-adjustable and folding exterior mirrors as standard. To be prepared for the toughest weather conditions, it can also be equipped with a heated steering wheel and a heated windshield.
Vibrations and driving noises are expected to be reduced, and the new chassis design aims to significantly enhance driving pleasure by providing even more direct contact with the road - something that has not been Duster’s greatest strength so far. The CMF-B platform also enables the electrification of the new Duster, as it can accommodate mild-hybrid and full-hybrid drivetrains.
New Top Engine: The Hybrid 140
The top model will be the Duster Hybrid 140. It is based on proven technologies from the Renault Group and generates a total output of 103 kW/140 PS. It includes a 4-cylinder petrol engine with 1.6-liter displacement and 69 kW/94 PS, two electric motors (a 36 kW/49 PS e-motor and a high-voltage starter generator), and a clutchless multi-mode automatic transmission with four driving modes for the combustion engine and two for the electric motor. The regenerative braking strategy, the 1.2 kWh battery capacity at 230 volts, and the high efficiency of the transmission allow for up to 80 percent of city driving to be completely electric. This reduces consumption by 20 percent (mixed cycle) to 40 percent (city cycle). In addition, the vehicle always starts in electric mode.
Below this model is the Duster TCe 130 with a new drivetrain for the brand. Dacia is using this newly developed power unit, which marks the first step towards electrification, for the first time in the Duster. It combines a new generation 3-cylinder petrol engine with 1.2-liter displacement, turbocharging, and Miller cycle operation (the intake valve closes during the intake stroke to increase efficiency) with a 48-volt starter generator. This supports the combustion engine when starting and accelerating and aims to reduce average consumption and CO2 emissions by about ten percent. Furthermore, the new power unit delivers more power when accelerating compared to the previous TCe 130 unit. The regenerative braking system charges the 0.8 kWh battery without the driver noticing. Dacia combines the TCe 130 in 4x2 and 4x4 versions with a 6-speed gearbox.
Eco-G: Up to 1,300 km Range with Two Tanks!
The base model is the Duster ECO-G 100 with autogas: Dacia is the market leader in autogas in Europe and the only automaker to offer a bivalent option (petrol and autogas) for all its combustion engine models under the ECO-G designation. In autogas operation, the new Duster ECO-G 100 emits an average of ten percent less CO2 than a comparable petrol model. With its two tanks, which together hold 100 liters (50 liters of petrol and 50 liters of autogas), it can cover up to 1,300 kilometers. The LPG tank is located under the trunk floor, so it does not affect loading capacity. A button on the instrument panel allows quick and seamless switching from one fuel to the other.
The 4x4 Version is Designed as a Serious Offroader
The new 4x4 version also remains a serious off-roader: It is equipped with the new Terrain Control system, which offers five driving modes: In "Auto" mode, the drivetrain automatically distributes power between the front and rear axles according to traction and wheel speed. In "Snow" mode, the driving behavior on slippery roads is optimized with specific ESP and anti-slip settings. "Mud/Sand" modes are designed for varying terrain. "Offroad" mode provides maximum performance in challenging terrain, similar to the 4x4 "Lock" mode of the current Duster. Additionally, it offers the extra advantage of automatically and appropriately distributing torque to the front and rear wheels based on traction and speed. "Eco" mode reduces fuel consumption by regulating power output from the drivetrain and air conditioning, as well as optimizing torque distribution to the front and rear wheels.
The ground clearance in the 4x4 version is 217 millimeters (measured between the axles), which is a best-in-class value. Thanks to the approach angles of up to 31° in the front and 36° at the back for the 4x4 version, obstacles can be overcome even better, with a ramp angle of 24°. The hill descent control is particularly useful on uneven terrain and steep passages. The system automatically applies the brakes and reduces speed according to the driver's wishes to between 0 and 30 km/h. This allows the driver to concentrate solely on steering without having to apply the brakes. The assistance system activates regardless of the gear selected, so it is also active in reverse gear. The new All Road Info System displays information such as side tilt, gradient, and the distribution of power between the front and rear axles for the 4x4 version on the 10.1-inch central display while driving off-road.
With the Sleep Pack to a Mini-Camper
Dacia also offers new "InNature accessories," including the Sleep Pack, which is also available for the Jogger. This is a simple, removable, and affordable 3-in-1 box that contains a double bed (1.90 meters long and up to 1.30 meters wide) that can be unfolded by one person in less than two minutes, a storage table, and storage space. Also known from the Jogger is the modular roof rack. The Dacia development teams have also invented a simple and practical system with YouClip, which allows various accessories to be attached in easily accessible places in the interior. The new Duster is equipped with four (in the "Essential" version) or six factory-installed YouClip mounts (one on the dashboard, one on the passenger side of the center console, one behind the center console, two on both sides of the trunk, and one in the trunk lid). They can hold a tablet holder, a bag, a smartphone holder with an induction charger, or the "YouClip 3 in 1" system, which includes a cup holder, a bag hook, and an LED flashlight. This thoughtful 3-in-1 system is already available from the factory in the Duster "Extreme," and all YouClip-compatible accessories can be obtained from Dacia dealers.
"Starkle": Strong Idea to Reduce Accident Costs
Visually, the new Duster looks much more elegant and still tougher than its predecessor. The new "Y" design motif is found everywhere. It is also the first production model to use Starkle, a new material developed by Dacia. It consists of 20 percent recycled polypropylene and is completely paint-free, reducing the carbon footprint of the production process. The side protection mouldings, wheel arch trims, side decorative elements with the brand logo, and front and rear skid plates are made of Starkle. Additionally, the front and rear skid plates are through-colored, which reduces the use of paints. Nearly 20 percent of the plastics in the new Duster are made from recycled materials, well above the segment average and an increase of eight percentage points compared to the previous generation. Moreover, Dacia has decided to eliminate leather and decorative chrome in all models for environmental reasons – though it also helps to save costs.
Dacia Also Going Digital Step by Step
Inside, there is a new digital 7-inch driver display, a new 10.1-inch central monitor, and a new infotainment system. As the first Dacia model, it features the digital 7-inch color display that shows the most important driver information in customizable form. The digital instrument cluster is standard from the "Expression" version. The new 10.1-inch central infotainment touchscreen is standard from the "Expression" trim level and can be combined with the Duster's two multimedia systems, Media Display and Media Nav Live: The Media Display is available from the factory in the "Expression" and "Extreme" versions and features four speakers and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Media Nav Live is standard on the higher "Journey" version and is optionally available on the "Extreme" and "Expression" trims. The system also includes a connected navigation system with real-time traffic information as well as map updates for eight years and an Arkamys 3D sound system with six speakers.
The base option is called Media Control in the "Essential" trim level: According to Dacia, this is a fully fledged infotainment system that can also be operated from the steering wheel. It shows information such as incoming calls or media content on a 3.5-inch display. The package includes four speakers, a Bluetooth connection, a USB port, and a smartphone mount in the dashboard. In conjunction with the free Dacia Media Control app, the radio, other media, and various other functions can be controlled via the smartphone screen.
Updates Over the Air – Provided You Choose the Higher Infotainment Line
It also offers "Native Connectivity" in compliance with the new European GSR2 regulations for vehicles equipped with Media Display and Media Nav Live, for even more connected services, including FOTA (Firmware Over The Air), which allows for remote updates so customers do not need to visit the Dacia partner to get the latest software version.
There is a smartphone holder in all trims. The versions with Media Display and Media Nav Live feature a YouClip smartphone holder and also two USB-C ports in the front and rear to charge up to four devices. All ports are backlit.
The paints are inspired by nature. | Photo: Dacia
The new Duster is likely to further accelerate sales. | Photo: Dacia
He will also form the basis for the "Bigster." The front section is likely to be identical. | Photo: Dacia
Outdoor capabilities are explicitly planned. | Photo: Dacia
The 4x4 shines with multiple driving programs and 217 mm ground clearance. | Photo: Dacia
The roof rack can be quickly converted. | Photo: Dacia
As expected: the driver assistance systems have been upgraded
Starting from the "Essential" trim, the cruise control is now standard. The automatic light-on feature is available for all trims. The high beam assistant, which automatically switches between low beam and high beam, is standard in the "Extreme" and "Journey" versions. Additionally, a multitude of new driver assistance systems are available for the new Duster to meet the latest European safety requirements. This includes the active emergency braking assistant with detection of other cars, pedestrians, bicycles, and motorcycles. Moreover, there are traffic sign recognition and speed warning, rear parking aid, lane keeping assistant, fatigue detection, and emergency call system (eCall). With My Safety, the Duster also offers a clever button that allows preferred driver assistance systems to be configured quickly.
Moreover, it should offer an unrivaled price-performance ratio
The new Duster aims to combine the most affordable prices in its segment with more space than ever before, to provide the best deal on the market. It is expected that Dacia will attempt to keep a "bare-bones version" under the 20,000-euro mark. However, the top-spec version is likely to exceed the 30,000-euro mark.
What does this mean?
The new Duster will continue the success of its predecessor: it looks significantly better, offers many clever ideas, and includes a serious 4x4 version, all at comparatively very good rates. Dacia is on a roll, and it continues.
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