Review – Dacia Duster 4×4 Mild-Hybrid (2025), how to fall in love with simplicity
Dacia Duster has grown
When the first Dacia Duster appeared in 2010, it was the no-nonsense SUV for people who mainly wanted a lot of car for little money. A first major update followed in 2017. A completely new generation appeared in 2024. Built on the modern CMF-B platform, which is also under the Jogger and Sandero. This new platform especially allows application of new powertrains, such as mild-hybrid. With this new Duster, Dacia is once again aiming at people who find off-road capabilities, ease of use and a tough appearance more important than gadgets or luxury frills.
“The new Dacia Duster 4×4 is the choice for people who expect just a little more from the car.”
Recognizable Duster DNA
The new Dacia Duster is immediately recognizable as a Duster, but looks more modern and sturdy. The bodywork has not become much longer (4.34 meters), but it does offer more space for passengers and luggage. Spacious in the Dacia Duster definitely. The car has a length of 4.34 meters, a width of 1.81 meters and a height of 1.66 meters. The luggage compartment has a capacity of 517 liters. That’s an impressive amount.
Inside, everything looks sleek and well thought out. Don’t expect soft plastics, but wear-resistant materials that can take a beating. Especially in the Extreme version with rubber floor mats and washable TEP MicroCloud upholstery, you feel completely ready for an outdoor trip. This upholstery is also washable. So a splash of mud is no big deal.
On the road with the Dacia Duster 4×4: how does it drive?
During our test drive, we immediately notice that the new Duster drives quieter and more stable than its predecessor. The CMF-B platform has clearly done its job: vibrations are better filtered, the steering feels more precise and the comfort level has increased considerably. The TCe 130 mild hybrid is new to Dacia. A three-cylinder 1.2-liter turbocharged gasoline engine is supported by a 48V system with a small electric motor. Together they account for 130 horsepower. The power source is mated to a six-speed manual transmission. In the case of this 4×4, this transmission has a very short first and second gear so smooth driving off takes some practice. However, starting in second gear is no problem. This is often even smoother than starting in first gear.
“The built-in navigation in the Duster is not of a high standard”
A darn handy button
The clutch also takes some getting used to: the engagement point is a bit vague. But after a few shifts, it comes naturally. Do you drive around town a lot? Then the two-wheel-drive version might be more convenient. If you often go off the beaten track, then you will definitely want this 4×4. Particularly nice is the button to the left of the steering wheel that allows you to turn off desired driving assistance systems at once, such as lane assist and speed warning. Otherwise, horns sound continuously in the car. It remains bizarre that Europe approved these regulations. Because it is more distracting than safe. Anyway, in the Duster you are rid of it with the push of a button.
The off-road capabilities: impressive
Dacia still dares to position the new Duster 4×4 as a true off-road vehicle – and rightly so. The version we drive, for example, has:
- A ground clearance of 217 mm
- An approach angle of 31° and exit angle of 36°
- A multiview camera system for difficult terrain
- Hill Descent Control that automatically brakes on descents
On difficult terrain, you felt surprisingly confident. Mud, slopes, gravel: the Duster had grip everywhere, thanks in part to the clever power distribution between front and rear axles. The drive mode dial lets you change between five modes:
- Auto – automatically distributes grip to the axles
- Snow – for snow and slipperiness
- Mudd/Sand – for loose ground
- Off-Road – for maximum grip
- Eco – to save fuel
Robustly built
The exterior of the Duster features wear-resistant protective parts made of Starkle: plastic that is not painted, so scratches are hardly visible. The bumpers are extra thick, the wheel arches are protected and there are also large protective plates under the car. This is evident when we take a look under the car after parking it in an adventurous location in the middle of a forest. The interior reflects that adventurous edge. Above all, the interior is practical, low-maintenance and resistant to wet coats, mud shoes and mountain bikes. In this 4×4, you also have an All Road Info System, with live info on lean angles, lateral tilt and torque distribution between the axles (in 4×4).
The built-in navigation in the Duster is not high-end. In fact, in our car, we couldn’t get the system to work. There is a simple solution: use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That way you always have your favorite navigation service at your fingertips, Google Maps for example, or Apple Maps and Waze. It’s up to you.
Prepared for the Sleep Pack camping box
Like the Dacia Jogger, the new Duster is also prepared for Dacia’s Sleep Pack. This converts the car into a mini camper with a double bed of 1.90 meters, a folding table and a handy storage box.
Conclusion review Dacia Duster 4×4
The new Dacia Duster 4×4 is the choice for people who expect just a little more from the car. The Duster offers space, robustness and a surprising amount of grip for a competitive price. Admittedly, the starting price of the 4×4 at 37,050 euros is a hefty 7,000 euros higher than the regular front-wheel drive TCe 130 MHEV (29,950 euros). But for that 7 grand you do get an extra versatile car with decent off-road skills. One thing the Duster is also: simple. And the latter is precisely what makes the most impact. You start to value simplicity. A conclusion with a deeper meaning, then. Enjoy the simple things in life, too.
