New dacia duster Review: Is It Still the King of Value SUVs?
For over a decade, the dacia duster has been a global phenomenon. It carved out a unique niche by offering a "no-nonsense" approach to motoring: providing rugged capability and SUV styling at a fraction of the cost of its competitors. With the arrival of the all-new 2024/2025 model, the question arises: has it moved too far from its budget roots, or is it better than ever?
In this professional review, we dive deep into the dacia duster to see how it performs, its new hybrid technology, and why it remains a top contender for those seeking the best value for money suv on the market today.
A Bold New Design Language
The first thing you notice about the new dacia duster is its "tough" aesthetic. It no longer looks like a budget alternative; it looks like a deliberate style choice. The exterior features "Starkle" plastic—a material made from 20% recycled content that is dyed in the mold. This means scratches from off-roading or tight city parking are less visible.
With its Y-shaped LED light signature and hidden rear door handles, the design is modern, clean, and surprisingly premium for its price bracket.
Performance: The Death of Diesel and the Rise of Hybrid
One of the biggest shifts in this generation is the powertrain lineup. For years, the diesel engine was the favorite for high-mileage drivers. However, the diesel is gone. In its place, the dacia duster offers:
1.0L Bi-Fuel: Running on both petrol and LPG for maximum range.
1.2L TCe 130: A mild-hybrid turbo engine that provides a great balance of punch and efficiency.
1.6L Hybrid 140: This full hybrid system is the new efficiency champion. It is significantly smoother in city traffic and offers an effortless driving experience thanks to its automatic gearbox.
If you are looking for a fuel efficient suv for city driving, the Hybrid 140 is undoubtedly the pick of the range.
Interior Tech and the "YouClip" Innovation
Inside, the dacia duster has undergone a digital revolution. While you will still find hard plastics—a necessity to keep costs down—the layout is ergonomic and visually appealing.
Infotainment: A 10-inch touchscreen handles Apple CarPlay and Android Auto wirelessly.
Physical Controls: Thankfully, Dacia kept physical buttons for the climate control, making it much safer to use while driving.
The YouClip System: This is a clever set of mounting points throughout the cabin where you can clip accessories like tablet holders, phone mounts, or even a 3-in-1 cup holder with an integrated light.
Practicality and Boot Space
Despite its compact dimensions, the dacia duster remains a champion of space. The boot capacity of the dacia duster varies by engine: the standard petrol models offer a generous 520 liters, while the hybrid version drops to 430 liters to accommodate the battery.
Passenger space is equally impressive. There is ample headroom and legroom in the back, and the ISOFIX points are easily accessible, making it a strong candidate if you are searching for the best small suv for families.
Driving Dynamics: Road vs. Off-Road
Built on the new CMF-B platform, the Duster feels more "planted" than its predecessor. The suspension is slightly firmer, which reduces body roll in the corners but can feel a bit "fidgety" over rough surfaces.
For those who need actual utility, the 4x4 version remains incredibly capable. It includes dedicated terrain modes (Mud, Sand, Snow) and hill descent control, ensuring that the dacia duster stays true to its rugged heritage.
Should You Buy One?
The new dacia duster is no longer just the "cheap" choice; it is a desirable car in its own right. It balances modern technology with rugged practicality better than almost any other vehicle in its class. While the 3-star Euro NCAP rating is something to consider, it remains a safe, honest, and highly capable vehicle for the real world.
