New-look Duster moves up a gear

Dacia is back, with a renewed version of its popular Duster. Ted Welford heads to Paris to see what it’s like.

IT’S no understatement to say the last six or so months have been rather busy for Dacia.

The start of the year saw the introduction of a nextgeneration Sandero and its rugged Stepway twin, while more recently, the Renault-owned firm has pulled the covers off its Jogger – a brand-new seven-seater.

But Dacia hasn’t forgotten about its popular Duster, which gets a series of updates to prolong its appeal with value-conscious buyers.

So, is it worth considering?

What’s new?

Dacia hasn’t messed too much with the Duster’s looks, as this model’s chunky styling is said to be a big draw to the 75,000 UK buyers that have chosen it since its launch in 2013.

Instead, this update refines the model, with the interior getting the same new touchscreen as seen on the latest Sandero, along with revisions that improve the user-friendliness of the cabin. Importantly, there’s also a new automatic model being introduced for the first time – something Dacia customers have been asking for for some time, the firm says.

What’s under the bonnet?

It’s the new automatic we’re trying, with a six-speed dualclutch gearbox only available on the range-topping ‘TCe 150’ model, which uses a 1.3-litre turbocharged petrol putting out 148bhp.

Also available with a manual gearbox, it’s the most powerful engine in the range, and can hit 0-60mph in 10.2 seconds.

The downside is that it’s the thirstiest too – its claimed 42.1mpg fuel economy figure of 152g/km not being anything to shout about. A range of other options is available, including a 1.0-litre turbocharged petrol.

What’s it like inside?

The main thing you’ll notice inside is the new eight-inch touchscreen system, which is a big step up from the previous unit.

It might not have the crispest of graphics, but gets everything you need and is bang on the money for a car of this price.

Other cabin tweaks include new upholstery and a more user-friendly sliding centre console.

The Duster also remains a practical choice, with its 478-litre boot being one of the largest in its class, and the Duster’s boxy shape allowing for a decent amount of rear space.

What’s the spec like?

Dacia used to offer the Duster in bargain-basement trims that didn’t even bring a radio or front electric windows, but as nobody apparently bought these models, they’ve now been axed.

It’s why the £13,995 starting price might seem quite steep compared to hat it was previously, though it still comfortably undercuts all key rivals.

Standard equipment on the Essential car also includes automatic LED lights, air conditioning, Bluetooth and cruise control.

But the Comfort grade would be our pick of the range. Starting from£15,495, it adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a leather steering wheel and the aforementioned eightinch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. If you want all the luxuries, perhaps choose the Prestige, which brings 17-inch alloy wheels, keyless entry, surround-view cameras and even heated seats.

At £16,695, it’s still impressive value for money too.

If you want an automatic, though, you’ll have to splash out more than £20,000, which does make the Duster seem a little bit pricey

How does it look?

Dacia hasn’t played too much with the Duster’s chunky and funky looks, though there are a number of tweaks.

Most prominent are its new LED lights, which get a Y-shaped signature.

The grille has a new 3D effect to make it stand out more, as does a new Arizona Orange colour that looked good in the Parisian sunshine.

The verdict

Dacia hasn’t gone to town with the revisions on its Duster, but has done everything needed to ensure this crossover remains as appealing as ever.

You still get its lovable styling, but you now get an interior that doesn’t feel quite so cheap, while the automatic gearbox will no doubt broaden its appeal.

It is still the crossover to have if you’re on a budget.