Dacia, the European automotive stalwart, has lifted the curtain on the eagerly awaited 2024 Dacia Duster, marking the third generation of its immensely popular SUV. With a fresh design, cutting-edge technology, and a commitment to affordability, the new Duster aims to continue the brand’s success that spans two decades.
A Design Evolution
Influenced by the striking Bigster concept of 2022, the new Duster embraces Dacia’s rebranding efforts, featuring a new ‘link’ badge and refined values emphasizing robustness, outdoor capability, essential yet cool features, and eco-smart elements. The design retains the appeal of its predecessors while introducing contemporary touches.
Dimensions and Stance
Moving to the CMF-B platform shared with the Renault Clio, Captur, and Dacia’s Sandero and Jogger, the 2024 Duster stands slightly wider and lower, maintaining its length for a robust yet agile appearance. Chunky wheel arch cladding, prominent bumpers, and increased ground clearance contribute to its distinctive stance.
Exterior Highlights
The front end showcases a new grille and headlight arrangement, with parallel lines seamlessly integrating into the daytime-running light signature. The C-pillar now conceals the rear door handle, contributing to a sleeker profile. At the rear, C-shaped lights, reminiscent of the Bigster concept, hint at the design direction for Dacia’s larger SUV arriving in 2025.
Interior Spaciousness
Despite a lowered roofline for improved efficiency, the interior remains spacious, comfortably accommodating both front and rear passengers. The boot capacity has been increased to 472 litres, offering practicality for various lifestyles.
Sustainable Material Innovation
Dacia introduces ‘Starkle,’ a trademarked material featuring in wheel arch cladding, side sills, and mirror wing panels. Composed of 20% recycled plastic with distinctive white particles, Starkle not only contributes to sustainability but also adds a unique visual appeal.
Driving Pleasure and Performance
The shift to the CMF-B platform brings enhanced driving pleasure, reducing vibrations and road noise for an unparalleled connection to the road. Dacia introduces a range of powertrains, including its first electrified option – the Hybrid 140. This hybrid variant, equipped with a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine and electric motor, offers a total output of 138bhp and city-friendly all-electric driving for up to 80% of the time.
Powertrain Options
Alongside electrification, the Duster introduces the TCe 130, a conventional 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This configuration aims to reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by approximately 10%. The TCe 100 Bi-Fuel variant, running on LPG, maintains Dacia’s commitment to diverse powertrain options.
Off-Road Capability
Enhanced driving modes cater to off-road enthusiasts, featuring a “4×4 Terrain Control transmission” with settings for various terrains. The selectable driving modes, including Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, and Eco, provide adaptability for diverse driving conditions.
Trim Levels and Features
The 2024 Duster offers four trim levels – Essential, Expression, Journey, and Extreme. Essential kicks off with fundamental features, while Expression introduces a 10.1-inch screen, wireless connectivity, and a reversing camera. Journey and Extreme cater to diverse preferences, with Journey boasting 18-inch alloy wheels and Extreme focusing on an off-road experience with washable upholstery and rubber floor mats.
Innovative Interior Addition – ‘YouClip’
A standout feature is ‘YouClip,’ a trademarked creation enabling users to attach accessories throughout the car. Whether lights, screens, bottles, or keys, the clips offer a customizable and practical interior setup.
Conclusion: A Glimpse into Tomorrow’s SUV
The 2024 Dacia Duster combines a refreshed design, advanced technology, and a commitment to practicality and value. As Dacia continues to evolve, this latest iteration sets the stage for an exciting future in the world of SUVs.
FAQs
Q1: When is the 2024 Dacia Duster expected to hit showrooms?
A1: The new Duster is anticipated to arrive in showrooms in the second half of 2024.
Q2: What is the driving range of the Duster Bi-Fuel variant?
A2: The Duster Bi-Fuel offers an impressive range of 807 miles, thanks to dual fuel tanks for petrol and LPG.
Q3: What is the primary focus of the Extreme trim level?
A3: The Extreme trim level emphasizes an off-road experience with features like washable upholstery and rubber floor mats.
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