HOW GOOD DOES THE ALL-NEW DACIA DUSTER DRIVE FOR THAT PRICE? REVIEW RENAULT DUSTER

EV Channels Review

The 2024 Dacia Duster, reviewed here in its top-tier 1.6 Hybrid Extreme trim, presents a compelling package for its price point, blending rugged off-road capability with a surprisingly attractive exterior design. The reviewer praises its true off-road character, evident in its approach/departure angles and ground clearance, especially with the AWD version. Inside, while the "Extreme" trim's neoprene-like seats are easy to clean, the reviewer suggests the "Journey" trim's fabric seats offer better comfort and heat resistance. The infotainment system is functional but not the quickest, with smartphone mirroring recommended for a smoother experience. The reviewer highlights the Duster's soft and floaty suspension, which excels in comfort over speed bumps and off-road, but leads to noticeable body roll during agile maneuvers or sudden lane changes. Real-world consumption for the hybrid is around 5 L/100km (50 MPG US / 60 MPG UK) at lower speeds, increasing to nearly 6 L/100km (40s MPG US / 50s MPG UK) at 120 km/h. Downsides include a lack of interior refinement, some cost-saving measures like hard plastics and un-dampened glove boxes, and less advanced assistance systems compared to competitors. Despite these compromises, the Duster's character and affordability, with prices starting under €20,000 for the base LPG model and around €27,000 for the hybrid Extreme, make it a strong contender for budget-conscious buyers seeking a distinctive and capable SUV.