Dacia's budget SUV isn’t just one of the most affordable SUVs on sale in the UK; it’s also one of parent company Groupe Renault’s most popular models, selling more than one million vehicles across the world since 2011.
Yep. Dacia is owned by Groupe Renault, meaning if you were to visit a Renault dealership today, you’d also be able to look at the no frills Dacia range. Part of the reason why Dacia is able to keep its prices so low is by using plenty of proven Renault parts, making the models super reliable, too.
Is the Dacia Duster a car for sensible shoes types?
That certainly used to be the case. This car’s rational, head over heart appeal has resonated in these austerity aware times, but second time round, Dacia is introducing a few more creature comforts.
The new Duster will be available with keyless entry, climate control, daytime-running LED lights and a multi-view camera. To help improve the current model’s distinctly average three star EuroNCAP crash safety rating, the new Duster will also benefit from curtain airbags and a reinforced vehicle frame.
It doesn’t look very different to the old Duster
The exterior may still look familiar, but every body panel is different. Beefed up wheel arches, bash plates, short overhangs and chunky tyres aren’t just for show either, as this car is available in both four-wheel drive and two-wheel drive.
Engines include a Renault-sourced turbocharged 1.2-litre petrol, or 1.5-litre diesel. Existing customers may notice the redesigned dashboard and new seats, but importantly, the space is still as generous as ever. Think Nissan Qashqai size, for Nissan Micra money.
How much will it cost?
Dacia describes the Duster as being ‘shockingly affordable’. How shocking, we’re not quite sure yet, but given the current Duster is priced from £9,495, we’re not expecting much movement from this. UK deliveries are expected to start in in summer 2018.
Gallery: 2018 Dacia Duster Live Photos