This is the Dacia Duster SUV and there is a unit in Malaysia right now undergoing product and market test. The Dacia Duster project was born out of the simple premise that al need existed in the world for an affordable, comfortable and rugged 4×4, a class which is currently not well served. Aware of this gap, the Renault group decided to develop an all-terrain vehicle aimed initially at emerging markets. In emerging markets the middle classes aspire to owning a modern car that reflects their social status. At the same time, they want a strong car that is reliable, versatile and capable of standing up to climatic demands and conditions that can be both tough and varied (long distances, difficult terrain, use in large built-up areas). The current offer is largely dominated by imported SUVs, which are often priced beyond the means of these middle classes.
At first glance, the Dacia Duster is clearly a 4×4. It was designed to tackle all types of roads and tracks. It will be available in all markets in both 4×2 form (for customers looking for good ground clearance and a high driving position, without the need for four-wheel drive) and with 4×4 transmission for off-road driving. Dacia Duster’s strengthened undercarriage is suitable for dirt roads and all-terrain use thanks to its high ground clearance (more than 200mm) and impressive clearance angles (approach angle: 30 degrees; departure angle: more than 35 degrees).
Dacia Duster is easy to drive and not only aimed at all-terrain drivers. Its combination of its low unladen weight (1,180kg in 4×2 – 1,280kg in 4×41) and compact proportions ensure particularly agile handling. In the 4×4 version, thanks to the unique and intuitive control (sourced from Nissan) located at the foot of the centre console, Dacia Duster drivers can easily adapt the vehicle’s transmission configuration to meet their needs of the moment. The Dacia Duster seats up to five adults comfortably, with unbeatable luggage capacity of a volume of up to 475m3. With the rear bench seat folded and tipped forward, its impressive carrying ability can even exceed 1,600m3. Both the 4×2 and 4×4 versions of Dacia Duster come with either a 1.6 16V 110hp petrol engine, or 85hp or 105hp dCi diesel power. All powerplants are already in use with Renault group models. Stay with www.dsf.my for updates on its possible launch in Malaysia.
