Anticipation is growing: there are only four weeks left until the arrival of the third generation of an SUV that has been a success due to the quality-price ratio it offers which, now, is even better. For 13 years, successive generations of this SUV have enjoyed notable success in Europe and other international markets. Its name reflects its ability to handle difficult and dusty terrain without problems while remaining affordable and simple. Since its launch, it has undergone several updates that have improved its design, technology, and security. In 2018, the second generation was presented which was based on a new platform that did not support hybrid mechanics. Although it subsequently underwent an additional renovation in 2022, the mechanical part did not change.
This is the Dacia Duster. The Romanian manufacturer is scheduled to present the third generation on November 29 in Portugal. With its launch, scheduled for 2025, the new Duster will be available under the Renault brand in markets such as India and Latin America. In addition to the standard five-seater version, Renault plans to introduce a seven-seater variant, which will be a different model commercially than the one known as Bigster.
Three engines and, for the first time, hybrid versions (and plug-in hybrid?)
The new Renault Duster has undergone a complete redesign. It stands out for its solid lines and angular aesthetics, which differentiate it from its predecessor. It is based on Renault-Nissan’s CMF-B modular platform. Spy images suggest the vehicle will take on a boxier look giving it a more imposing presence on the road.
The interior promises an improved level of comfort thanks to a fully digital control panel, improvements in sound insulation, and new equipment options, always eliminating everything superfluous.
But, above all, the mechanics change. It will be available with a greater variety of engine options, abandoning the diesel variants, that is, the 1.5 dCi engine disappears from the possible configurations. Specifically, according to the website, there will be three gasoline options: a standard one with a power of 120 HP; a 1.0-liter turbo gasoline engine that provides 140 HP, and another, also turbocharged, 1.3-liter engine that generates 170 HP and can also run on biofuels. The latter makes it the most powerful model that has been put on sale to date. For the first time, a hybrid version will be available and there are even rumors about the possibility of a plug-in hybrid.
The Romanian manufacturer will increase its production capacity, with the majority of the Mioveni factory in Romania dedicated to the manufacture of this new model. It will be available for first deliveries at dealerships in the first quarter of 2024. Although prices have not yet been revealed, the manufacturer promises to keep them in a range similar to the current one, which could imply a slight increase compared to current prices.
