Conviction in every detail

Photo: It is an optical illusion that the new Dacia Duster looks bigger. The copper-coloured wing mirrors indicate the Extreme trim level.

In the meantime, Dacia has achieved the prime position of being the leading brand among private buyers in many European countries. This means that Dacia knows exactly how to strike the right chord with many people. Value for money is a key selling point. In addition, functionality plays an important role. The average car buyer has one car and wants to be able to do everything with it.

As we noted at the unveiling of the third-generation Duster, this series offers a lot more. But if we compare the dimensions of the new Duster with those of the outgoing model, hardly anything seems to have changed. The car offers more legroom and headroom, although the height is slightly lower.

A conscious effort has been made to achieve similar dimensions as the new Duster is based on Renault's new CMF-B platform, which is now also used by the Sandero and Jogger. As a result, the Duster can now be fitted with various ADAS safety systems and a hybrid powertrain.

The car has a more angular and robust look, which suits the model's character very well. Naturally, the new logo adorns the front of the car and is visually extended to the headlights. The familiar Y-shape is back. At the rear, the lights are more V-shaped, or rather the top of the tilted Y.

Remarkably, the entry-level version with the 1-litre 3-cylinder turbo engine has lost up to 300 kg of towing weight compared to the outgoing Duster. The familiar 1-litre 3-cylinder LPG engine (Eco-G) still delivers 100 bhp. If you want to tow a heavy caravan and luggage, look for the 1.2-litre turbo engine with 130 hp and a towing capacity of 1,500 kg. The 1.2 litre 3-cylinder engine is completely new for Dacia. The engine is from the Renault Austral.

The 1.6-litre hybrid with automatic gearbox is the top of the list. The hybrid has a very modest towing capacity of 750 kg. The hybrid version can be driven fully electrically under certain conditions and offers favourable fuel consumption if the driver chooses to do so.

A familiar 1.5-litre diesel is also available in some markets outside Europe.

Photo: YouClip fastening points for a variety of handy accessories are located in various places. The interior space of the third series of the Dacia Duster has increased considerably.

Up to 20 percent of the Dusters will be sold with four-wheel drive. This feature is paired with the 1.2-litre engine mentioned above. Thanks to its performance and price, Dacia has carved out a niche for itself with this 4x4 version in the government, emergency services and agricultural sectors, among others. Its off-road qualities are impressive, as we found out on a set off-road course. On steep descents, Hill Descend Control automatically helps to reduce speed. Cameras on the central screen provide better visibility in critical situations.

The high seating position was always appreciated. The seats are much more supportive. In terms of electronics, the car can be equipped with a well-placed digital screen above the centre console. This stays connected to the internet and is automatically updated overnight. Dacia also offers simpler systems.

From the driver's seat the front is even easier to see, as the bonnet is much more angular than before. Recycled materials are used in many places. This can be seen in the front doors, for example. The quality is now such that it can be used in visible areas.

All new Dacia cars feature YouClip attachment points for a wide range of accessories. The Duster has them on the dashboard and in the boot. The number of accessories that can be attached will increase significantly in the near future. Practical and convenient.

Customers can choose from four trim levels: Essential, Expression, Extreme and Journey. The most basic version comes with the 1-litre engine only. The Expression with more equipment will be sufficient in many cases. The Extreme and Journey have their own style. The Extreme is aimed at adventurers, while the Journey is more for long-distance travellers.

Dacia also has to comply with the latest European Union standards when it comes to warning systems that, among other things, monitor speeding. Fortunately, the brand has managed to keep the irritation level of the beeps very low. The systems can also be switched off relatively easily with a button on the dashboard.

The large wheels and their extensive movements  provides an almost old-fashioned level of comfort. The body structure is stiffer than before, but without much effect on the weight. It is also nice and quiet on board, with external noise nicely muffled. Above 100 km/h, however, the wind noise increases.

The price of the car depends heavily on taxes from country to country. All in all, Dacia maintains its affordability with this high-quality Duster.