The Dacia Duster is one of the most popular and affordable SUVs in Europe, with more than 1.9 million units sold since its launch in 2010. The Romanian brand, owned by Renault, has recently unveiled the third generation of the Duster, which promises to be more modern, spacious, efficient, and versatile than ever before. Here are some of the main features and innovations of the new 2024 Dacia Duster.
A New Platform and Design for the Duster
The 2024 Dacia Duster is based on the CMF-B platform, which is shared with other Renault-Nissan models such as the Captur, Juke, Renault Clio, and Mitsubishi Colt. This platform allows the Duster to grow in size, with a length of 4.4 meters, a width of 1.8 meters, and a wheelbase of 2.67 meters. The new dimensions translate into more interior space, especially for the rear passengers and the boot, which has a capacity of 536 liters.
The design of the new Duster is also more refined and modern, with a new front grille, LED headlights and taillights, and a more sculpted body. The new Duster also features a panoramic glass roof, a first for the model, which adds more light and visibility to the cabin. The new Duster is available in nine colors, including two new ones: Desert Orange and Highland Green.
A Hybrid Engine and a New Transmission for the Duster
One of the most significant innovations of the new Dacia Duster is the introduction of a hybrid engine, which combines a 1.6-liter petrol engine with two electric motors and a 1.2 kWh battery. This engine, called E-Tech, delivers a total output of 145 hp and a fuel consumption of 5.1 liters/100 km. The hybrid Duster can also run on electric mode for up to 80% of urban driving, reducing emissions and noise.
The new Dacia Duster also offers a new transmission option, a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox, which is available for the 1.3-liter turbo petrol engine with 150 hp. This gearbox provides smoother and faster shifts, as well as better fuel efficiency and performance. The new Duster also retains the option of a six-speed manual gearbox and a four-wheel drive system, which can be selected via a rotary knob on the dashboard.
A More Comfortable and Connected Interior for the Duster
The 2024 Dacia Duster also improves the comfort and connectivity of its interior with new materials, features, and technologies. The dashboard has been redesigned with a new 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wireless charging, and a 360-degree camera. The new Duster also offers a digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a multifunction steering wheel.
The new Duster also enhances the comfort of its seats, which are more ergonomic and adjustable, with lumbar support and heating functions. The new Duster also offers more storage spaces, such as a sliding central armrest, a glove box, and door pockets. The new Duster also features a modular roof storage system, which can accommodate various accessories, such as a roof box, a bike rack, or a tent.