Introducing the next generation Duster, Dacia is venturing into new territory with the third generation of its popular SUV that has dominated European sales since 2010. For the first time in its lineage, the driveline features assistance from a battery pack in the form of a hybrid version (HEV). The cladding on the bodywork is made from recyclates. More than ever, a child of its time?

The revamp of the Dacia Duster is a more upscale approach, a modernization by the standards of electrification and circularity, at least to some extent. It encompasses a complete redesign of the bodywork, featuring a linear style and a vizorlike interpretation of the radiator grille with the Y-formed headlights connected by the new Dacia logo. The inspiration comes from the concept car Manifesto.

Greener cladding with Starkle

But the eye-catching detail is a recycling emblem on the sturdy off-road cladding. It is made from a material called Starkle, a plastic made from 20% recycled propylene and fully recyclable at the end of its lifecycle. Larger than before, the cladding is also unpainted and more resistant to scratches. The Duster is not a trailblazer in circular manufacturing but takes its first necessary steps.

So much holds for the driveline as well. There’s no battery-powered version yet, but as the small SUV shares its platform with the Jogger (CMF-B), it adopts its hybrid technology (also offered in the Clio and Captur). With 140 hp on tap, the system is based on a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with 94 hp, coupled to a 49 hp electric motor. The battery has a capacity of 1,2 kWh.

LPG version

There are no official consumption figures, but Dacia promises a reduction of roughly 20% since the Duster as full hybrid benefits from a robust recuperation system and the famous gearbox from Renault with claw clutches, derived from F1.

As for the other engines, a new three-cylinder 1.2 TCe engine with light hybridization is introduced, providing the option for all-wheel drive. The mild assistance is projected to drop consumption by 10%. Dacia also sticks to the rare option of an LPG version called Eco-G.

You clip it

Inside, notable ergonomic enhancements include a new 10,1-inch central screen, angled at 10 degrees toward the driver. This screen conceals a new multimedia system. And from the second trim level, a 7-inch digital instrument panel is introduced. Luggage space increases to 472 liters in the FWD version.

As a clever detail, Dacia introduces the practical “YouClip” gadget, enabling the attachment of various accessories within the cockpit, such as a tablet holder, storage pouch, smartphone holder (with or without an induction charger), or a versatile three-in-one accessory combining a cup holder, bag hook, and flashlight. Also adopted from the Jogger is the option of a removable bed called ‘Sleep Pack’.

Sales are slated to commence in the upcoming spring. With a base price of less than 20 000 euros, Dacia intends to maintain its bestseller status despite the comfort and technological enhancements.