2024 Dacia Duster Unveiled; India Launch In 2025

Dacia, the Romanian automaker, has taken the wraps off the latest iteration of its immensely popular Duster SUV. Called the Renault Duster in India, the new SUV brings in fresh technology, increased practicality, and a range of new engines, including a hybrid option. Influenced by the 2022 Bigster concept, the new Duster features a design that aligns with Dacia's rebranding in 2022. The vehicle, based on the CMF-B platform, maintains the signature Duster look with robust wheel arches, chunky bumpers, and a slightly lowered roofline for improved efficiency.

Despite the lowered roofline, the interior remains spacious and accommodating. The boot capacity has been increased to 472 litres, offering more room for cargo. Dacia introduces a new trademarked material, 'Starkle,' for wheel arch cladding and side sills, contributing to a distinctive appearance and potentially reducing production costs.

The shift to the CMF-B platform brings forth a new selection of powertrains, marking the introduction of electrification to the Duster lineup. The Hybrid 140, already seen in the Jogger, combines a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, delivering a total output of 138 bhp. Additionally, a non-turbo petrol option, the TCe 130, offers a 128 bhp three-cylinder, 1.2-litre turbocharged engine with a 48V mild-hybrid starter-generator.

Enhanced off-road capabilities are introduced with the "4x4 Terrain Control transmission," featuring five driving settings for various terrains. The modes include Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road, and Eco, catering to different driving conditions. The system is controlled via a rotary knob in the centre console, and a hill-descent control function ensures safe descents on steep gradients.

The new Duster lineup comprises four trim levels: Essential, Expression, Journey, and Extreme. Essential includes basic features like a 3.5-inch media screen, smartphone holder, Bluetooth connectivity, and cruise control. Expression adds a 10.1-inch screen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reversing camera, and a larger seven-inch driver's display. Journey and Extreme cater to distinct preferences, with Journey offering enhanced features like 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic air conditioning, and a wireless smartphone charger, while Extreme focuses on the outdoors with washable upholstery, rubber floor mats, and Copper Brown styling accents.

A notable addition is the 'YouClip' accessory system, available in three or five clips depending on the trim level. This feature allows users to secure accessories like lights, screens, bottles, and keys throughout the interior, showcasing Dacia's commitment to practicality.

While pricing details are yet to be announced, Dacia aims to keep the new Duster competitively priced, with expectations of starting from under 20,000 euros in continental Europe. The SUV is anticipated to hit showrooms in the second half of 2024, while the Indian market is likely to receive the Renault Duster in the first half of 2025.