The Dacia Duster 2 went through the restyling box, revised its range and increased its prices. Romanian remains the cheapest SUV. Here are our tips for choosing the right version.
The Dacia Duster has been successful since the launch of the first model in 2010 and the Duster 2 took over successfully in 2018. New step in 2021 with the restyled version but you really have to get out the magnifying glass to see the changes (see our video below). However, we note the new design of the headlamps and lights (now with a Y-shaped light signature), the roof bars with black plastic front end caps and the revised rim design.
The typical look of the first model remains and Dacia did not want to touch it because the Duster sells as well for its low prices as for its backpacker look. The compact template also remains unchanged with a length of 4.34 m. On board, the more modern presentation inaugurated in 2018 further refines its appearance with the Duster 2 phase 2 thanks to the new 8-inch multimedia screen and the central armrest which takes place between the front seats. At the rear, two USB sockets appear.
With the restyling, the Duster reduced its finishes to three levels (Essential, Comfort and Prestige) and modern equipment (hands-free card, blind spot warning system, new 8 ” touchscreen and wireless Apple Carplay Android Auto) are as standard the high-end finish or as an option (see all details on page 2) . Same simplification for the engines since the model now offers two petrol (130 and 150 hp), a diesel (115 hp) and an LPG (100 hp). The 4×4 transmission remains only on diesel because the petrol versions would have been penalized too much by the 2022 penalty with such equipment.
The strengths of the Dacia Duster 2
- The prices still unbeatable, despite the rising price, and the good performance of the second-hand model
- Progress in driving with smoother steering and better soundproofing vs. the first generation model
- The suspension is comfortable on the road and efficient in off-road use to absorb bumps
- Modernized equipment and better designed dashboard
- Good trunk and good rear seat for a 4.34 m SUV
- The TCe 150 for its tone and the BluedCi for its sobriety
- The LPG proposal at the price of gasoline
The weak points of the Dacia Duster 2
- The comfort of the front seats on long journeys can still be improved
- Bench backrest too vertical to the detriment of comfort
- Effortless modularity: 60-40 backrest, no flat floor
- Modern equipment only in high finish or optional
