Living with the Dacia Duster
Review by Jacob Lerklint
I have always been interested in a good, cheap car where you get value for your money and the 2020 Dacia Duster is one of those cars. But does the badge get in the way for potential buyers? The Dacia Duster platform is now ten years old and it has been a success from the very start, over a million Dusters has since been sold worldwide. The latest generation entered light late 2017 and has been slightly improved every year with new engines and technology.
We were driving the Prestige 4x4 model with the tiny 1.3 litre 4 cylinder petrol engine producing 130hp/240nm with a six speed manual box. First thing you’ll notice is the low gear ratios, it is easier to start in second gear. Running through the gears there is not much happening in terms of speed but it will do. You now get an electric steering unit which makes it slightly more easy to drive. I was really surprised how quiet the car was on motorways, not what I would have expected. They seem to have worked a lot on the sound insulation for this generation. The suspension coped with roads reasonably good with a somewhat expected lean in the corner. One aspect where I would have hoped it be more efficient is the fuel economy, with an average of 8l/100km. The diesel might be a better choice if you do long trips.
The face of the Duster has remained almost unchanged the last ten years with the exception of some LED lights and some new chrome bits. Interior wise there is a big step up from previous generations. In this prestige model you get a two-zone climate control, wireless charging for your phone, a touch screen with apple car play and Lane-change warning. You even get a 360 degree camera making your off-roading a bit easier. Of course the interior breathes of plastic but that is to be expected in this price range. It must be said the seats are not the most supportive, but it is never uncomfortable. I also would have liked to have more adjustability with the steering column.
As good as the Duster is on road, its happy place is off-road where it does a superb job. With a 21cm class leading ground clearance you feel confident running through most off-road tracks. You can choose if you want to lock into 4WD or just turn it to auto leaving the car to decide when it starts slipping. If you find yourself going down a step incline you can use the hill assist and set your preferred speed. Safety is where the Dacia Duster suffers, they still do not come with autonomous braking emergency which is just unacceptable in today’s world. Owners do not seem to care though as the Duster sells more examples each year.
It is not hard to see why it is so popular, with a base price of around 140k SEK and 210K SEK for this fully optioned prestige model, you get a sensible, rugged off-roader with charm and more technology than you expect for the price. Yes there are flaws but you get a lot for your money. The Dacia badge is getting more acceptable and with the sale numbers increasing, proves it. The cars are getting better and better in every category and the attention the brand gets these days are well deserved.
Comments