The Dacia Duster offers such great value for money, you'll wonder why you spent the extra money on a more expensive model. It's not the most inspiring car to drive, and the interior lacks luster, but in all respects the Duster holds its own in an increasingly competitive market.
The second-generation Duster received a facelift in 2021, with updates to the exterior design, interior trim and infotainment system all helping to keep it competitive, while Dacia continues to offer an all-wheel drive option meaning the Duster could be the best model yet. the value of a decent off-road car on the market.
About Dacia Duster
Car prices may continue to rise, but the Dacia Duster is one of the biggest bargains out there. This SUV is equally at home carrying out family car duties as it is off-road. There's already a lot to like, but the fact that it's the same purchase price as a supermini is what's most appealing.
It's no surprise then that the first generation Duster, introduced to the UK in 2012, has a reputation for being excellent value for money, earning it a legion of loyal fans. The current second-generation Duster picks up where the old model left off, with improvements made in key areas.
Visually, the second generation Duster looks very similar to the old model – Dacia isn't going to mess around with a winning formula. It is more attractive and classy than before. It received further improvements in the 2021 refresh, including revised headlights, a new grille design, a rear spoiler and some updated wheel designs. The brand also updates its old shield logo in 2022 with a new “Dacia link” design adorning the front grille and steering wheel, while 'DACI A' lettering appears on the boot.
Inside, better seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and an electric rear window are all welcome improvements over the previous model. At the same time, mid- and top-spec cars are equipped with a 1.1-litre storage bin and a practical armrest.
Although several additional trim levels have come and gone, the core Duster lineup consists of four levels: Essential, Expression, Journey, and Extreme. The essential trim is the entry point into Duster ownership and includes 16-inch steel wheels, cruise control, air conditioning and Bluetooth. The Expression, Journey, and Extreme specs add more luxury and styling upgrades like alloy wheels, an eight-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a rearview camera.
Under the hood, you can choose between two pure petrol engines or a factory-installed LPG Bi-Fuel system. If you want diesel power, you should consider buying a used example with the discontinued 1.5-litre DCi engine. If you buy new, you can choose from a TCe 90 1.0-litre 89bhp unit or a TCe 1.3-litre with 128bhp or 148bhp.
If you prefer the idea of the Dacia's Bi-Fuel setup, it's powered by a 99bhp TCe 100 engine. However, make sure there is an LPG pump available near you, as these pumps are increasingly difficult to find at gas stations.
The majority of the Duster range is equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox, except for the 148bhp petrol model, which comes with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
Is Dacia Duster reliable?
The Mk2 Dacia Duster received a score of 94.15% in our 2023 Driver Power owner satisfaction survey, and was named the best small SUV to own.
Do Dacia Dusters have great value?
According to our latest expert data, the second generation Dacia Duster will retain up to 55 percent of its original value after three years of driving and 36,000 miles.
Our web producer, Pete Baiden, used a Dacia Duster for over six months as part of our long-term test fleet. While using this small SUV, he found it to be a refreshingly simple car to take around his driveway. The car accommodated his family comfortably, covered more than 5,000 miles without a hitch, and he even found it quite fun to drive.
Pete also believes that the Dacia's starting price of under £15,000 makes it an ideal car for those needing a ULEZ compliant replacement. There are a few minor gripes, such as a faulty Apple CarPlay connection, but at this price point, they don't detract from the impression of a great all-round family car.
