Dacia is steadily transforming into a brand ideal for a certain type of audience, proving that cars can be affordable and cool at the same time. Leading the way is the new Duster, which embodies the Romanian automaker’s core values while ushering the brand into a new era.
We recently tested this updated subcompact SUV with the entry-level 1.0-liter Eco-G powertrain in a variety of driving conditions to see how much it has evolved and improved over its popular predecessor.
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Launched in November 2023, the third-generation Duster brings major updates both internally and externally. Dacia’s new design language gives the vehicle a more substantial appearance, although it only increases by 23 mm (0.9 in), taking the overall length to 4,343 mm (171 in).
Currently, the only subcompact SUVs in Europe that are longer than the Duster are the Citroen C3 Aircross and Opel Frontera twins. However, Dacia will soon enter the compact SUV segment with the launch of the new Bigster, which is essentially a stretched version of the Duster and offers a seven-seat option.
Quick facts
In terms of design, sharp LED lighting, boxy fenders and narrow windows enhance the SUV’s rugged stance, complemented by extensive protective cladding made from 20% recycled plastic. The Duster also maintains the highest ground clearance in its class at 209 mm (8.2 inches) for front-wheel drive models and 217 mm (8.5 inches) for 4×4 models.
Modern platform and driving style
While the new styling is attractive, the most important update is hidden beneath the surface: the adoption of CMF-B architecture. This modern platform replaces the aging B0 underpinnings used in previous Duster models, which date back to the early 2000s. The new architecture is shared across all ICE-powered Dacias as well as several other Groupe Renault models, including the Renault Captur and Symbioz.
Get behind the wheel of the new Duster and you’ll immediately notice the improvements brought about by the new, stronger chassis. The suspension is always on the comfort side, but handling and ride quality have improved, with less body roll in corners and a firmer feel on the road. While the Duster’s refinement and noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) levels may not rival its pricier Renault counterparts, it’s comfortable and modern enough to rival a model bearing the Dacia badge .
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The Duster has never been sporty, but we do wish its steering offered more road feedback and felt heavier at highway speeds. The brakes (front disc and rear drum) require more pedal pressure than you might think, but you get used to them quickly and come in handy when driving on low-grip terrain.
Our off-road experience with the Duster included some bumpy gravel roads and rocky ascents, and it performed very well considering the limitations of the front-wheel-drive layout. Overall, this is an SUV that encourages you to venture further without worrying about getting dirty. The AWD version, available only with the mild-hybrid 1.2-liter TCe 130 powertrain, appears to be the best option in the lineup, despite its significant price increase over the base model.
How good is the LPG version?
Now let’s talk about this tiny powertrain – a turbocharged 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine that runs on both gasoline and LPG. Its dual-fuel capability makes it an alternative to discontinued diesels, with lower running costs but a lack of torque. Dacia recently sold its millionth LPG-powered car, showing there is indeed a market for this technology.
In fact, the engine delivers slightly more power when running on LPG – 99 hp, versus 89 hp on gasoline. However, the biggest selling point is the lower cost of LPG and the potential for long-term savings, making it an attractive option for daily driving. Switching between fuels is seamless and can be done with the push of a button, and the digital instrument cluster provides real-time updates on remaining range for both fuel types.
According to our back-of-the-envelope calculations, based on fuel consumption figures and current prices, using LPG costs about half as much as using gasoline.
Dacia claims that the Duster Eco-G has a range of up to 1,300 kilometers (808 miles) between refueling stations thanks to the combination of a conventional petrol tank and an LPG container. However, the LPG tank is mounted under the boot floor, which unfortunately sacrifices space for the much-needed spare wheel.
In terms of performance, despite what the specs suggest, the engine feels adequate at low speeds, helped by the fact that the latest generation duster doesn’t add too much weight. Only after reaching about 120 km/h (75 mph) does the entry-level powertrain start to feel sluggish, with the engine’s harshness becoming more pronounced in the cabin. For those looking for better performance, the mild-hybrid 1.2 TCe 130 is a more efficient option, although it sacrifices the economics of LPG.
What’s it like inside?
The previous-generation Duster’s interior was starting to show its age, so Dacia’s designers put a lot of effort into modernizing it. The new dashboard feels as solid as the SUV’s exterior while incorporating newer technology – although that’s not included in the most basic entry-level trim.
As expected, hard plastic covers every surface inside, even in the high-spec Duster Extreme shown here. But that’s not much of a drawback, as Dacia buyers typically prioritize practicality over soft-touch materials.
The centerpiece of the interior is the new 10.1-inch infotainment touchscreen, which looks sharp and is very easy to use without unnecessary gimmicks. Next to it, you’ll find Dacia’s signature smartphone holder, which keeps your device safe and is especially useful when wireless Android Auto refuses to connect.
Some ergonomic issues include the placement of the armrest, which prevents access to the physical handbrake (although this won’t be an issue in trims with an electronic handbrake), and the oddly positioned volume button, which sits alongside the on/off switch at the top of the screen .
On the plus side, the physical switches for climate control located below the center touchscreen make it easier for the driver to operate without having to fumble around with touchscreen menus. Likewise, a conveniently placed button on the left side of the steering wheel allows you to turn off the ADAS suite or configure it to reduce distractions if required.
Although Dacia has recently equipped its models with the legally required basic driver assistance package, the brand has stubbornly refused to offer more advanced features such as adaptive cruise control.
The rugged exterior styling, while attractive, results in a fairly narrow windshield and a high beltline, which limits visibility—especially for young children, who may find themselves staring at the plastic door panels instead of the world outside.
Which brings us to one of the dust collector’s biggest advantages: interior space. Despite only a slight increase in size, the cabin feels roomier than the already spacious predecessor. Headroom and legroom are close to those of a compact SUV, making the Duster an attractive option for families.
The trunk is also large and practical, with a wide opening. Cargo capacity is up to 474 liters (16.7 cu ft) for the mild-hybrid FWD version, but drops to 400 liters (14.1 cu ft) for the LPG-powered model due to the location of the fuel tank.
Our Duster Extreme came with “TEP MicroCloud” seat upholstery, which is washable but lacks the breathability of traditional fabrics. Therefore, you may find that you sweat more easily, especially when driving in hotter areas such as the Mediterranean.
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Another feature worth mentioning is the YouClip system, with three or five gripping points scattered around the cabin for mounting a number of compatible accessories. The devices can be purchased from Dacia dealers and currently include a tablet holder, a storage bag, an induction charger or a cup holder that doubles as a bag-hook portable light.
For owners who enjoy camping, the optional “sleep package” is worth considering. It adds a convertible bed and extra storage compartments, making the Duster a versatile companion for outdoor adventures.
Pricing and equipment
With prices starting at €19,950 ($22,270), the new Dacia Duster may not be the absolute cheapest subcompact SUV out there, but when you consider everything you get, it’s certainly good value for money.
The base Essential trim comes with steel wheels and minimal features, so most buyers will likely gravitate toward the mid-spec Expression, which starts at €22,390 ($25,013). This trim includes a digital cockpit with a 10.1-inch infotainment system, a rearview camera, and 17-inch wheels, while still being priced below most rivals.
Our tester was a flagship model called the Extreme, equipped with the 1.0-liter Eco-G powertrain and priced at €25,990 ($29,034). For the same price, you can also opt for the top-spec Duster Journey, which replaces the Extreme’s rubber floor mats and YouClip functionality with an electronic handbrake and wireless charging.
Interestingly, upgrading to the more powerful mild-hybrid 1.2 TCe 130 powertrain in the Extreme only costs €600 ($670), making it a no-brainer. Regardless, at this price point, the Duster effectively loses its bargain status as it overtakes the entry-level trim of the Nissan Qashqai, which falls into the larger compact SUV segment.
Looking at the rest of the Duster range, prices start at €26,990 ($30,152) for the mild-hybrid 4×4 version, while the most powerful option – a self-charging hybrid with only front-wheel drive – starts at €28,890 ($32,275). At least among these models, the entry-level Expression has richer configurations.
opponent
Subcompact SUVs are extremely popular in Europe, which means there are plenty of options in this segment. In terms of personality and target audience, the Dacia Duster’s closest rival is probably the Suzuki Vitara, which was last updated for 2024 despite being largely unchanged since 2014.
Those looking for space and practicality may consider the upcoming Citroën C3 Aircross and Opel Frontera, both of which are expected to offer more space for the price and the option of a third-row seat. A potential internal rival could be the slightly longer Dacia Jogger crossover wagon, although it looks too much like a stretched Sandero to steal the Duster’s shine.
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On the other hand, buyers who prioritize rugged looks may look to the Jeep Avenger, even though it’s smaller and more expensive than the Duster.
judgment
The Dacia Duster III remains an almost unrivaled value proposition, combining rugged styling with modern underpinnings and a roomy interior. It has significantly improved over its predecessor, becoming more comfortable and livable without losing the homespun charm that made it so popular in the first place.
There are still some compromises in perceived quality, steering feedback and NVH (noise, vibration and harshness) compared to pricier rivals, although these issues are less noticeable than before. The small three-cylinder dual-fuel engine in the base model is adequate for daily driving but struggles on the highway. For those willing to sacrifice the low running costs of the LPG model, a more powerful mild-hybrid version may address these performance issues.
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