The Duster has made a name for itself in the UK owing to its exceptional value and robustness. It’s a car that is up to nearly any task and it’ll get the job done without blowing the budget, too.
A four-wheel-drive version has been a great option for those drivers that need a little traction as well. But what do you need to know about this value-orientated SUV? Let’s dive right in and find out.
The Duster makes no bones about its low-cost intentions. Its interior is well made and, though it may lack some premium touches, incorporates everything you really need for daily driving. It’s solidly put together, too, and will no doubt stand up to the test of time well.
It’s got a well-sized boot, too, with 445 litres to play with. This does drop ever so slightly to 411 litres on four-wheel-drive models, mind.
Dacia hasn’t mucked around by introducing new hybrid or electric powertrains with the Duster. Instead, you get a series of reliable and well-proven powertrains that are there to bring dependable propulsion.
Diesel versions use a 1.5-litre engine, while petrol versions make do with either 1.2- or 1.6-litre setups. There’s the option of manual or automatic gearboxes, too.
Though not everyone needs go-anywhere capability, the Duster’s four-wheel-drive system transforms this high-riding model into a genuinely accomplished off-road offering. In fact, equip the Duster with some chunky tyres and it’ll be able to traverse some serious rugged terrain.
Just remember that opting for a four-wheel-drive Duster will affect its economy.
The Duster’s chunky styling has the look and feel of a real off-roader. However, there is the opportunity to pick a version with more upmarket features, such as larger alloy wheels or LED lights. Later models also get chrome grilles and contrast bumper sections, which do help to lift the overall look of the car.
If you do want to go fully low-cost on your Dacia, then there are plenty of models available with plain white paint and steel wheels.
Price has always been central to the Duster’s appeal. Even when new, the Duster undercut its rivals considerably, despite offering plenty of standard equipment and features.
So if you take a look at HPL’s site today, you’ll see a number of Dusters that bring some serious value to the table. In fact, there are a number on offer for under £10,000, even though they’ve got upmarket features like air-conditioning, alloy wheels and parking sensors.