Dacia Duster
| Company type | Automobile model |
|---|---|
| Industry | Automotive |
| Predecessor | Dacia Sandero (platform predecessor) |
| Founded | March 2010 |
Area served | Europe, Latin America, Russia, Ukraine, Asia, Middle East, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, CIS countries, India (first generation) |
| Products | Subcompact crossover SUV |
| Parent | Renault Group |
The Dacia Duster represents a series of subcompact crossover vehicles manufactured since 2010 by the French automaker Renault together with its Romanian branch, Dacia. Currently in its third iteration, this model is sold under the name Renault Duster across regions including Latin America, Russia, Ukraine, various Asian countries, the Middle East, South Africa, Australia, and New Zealand. For markets in the CIS nations and India, the initial generation was rebranded and redesigned as the Nissan Terrano. Introduced in March 2010, it marked the third vehicle from Dacia built upon the Logan platform, succeeding the Sandero.
A four-door double cab pickup variant launched in late 2015 for South America under the name Renault Duster Oroch, while a single cab version known as the Dacia Duster Pick-Up arrived in 2020.
Significantly, the Renault Duster has become the preferred choice for Ukrainian law enforcement and government bodies, with around 1,500 units acquired during 2024 alone.[1]
Design
Initially revealed as a specialized ice racing edition for the Andros Trophy on 17 November 2009, the production version of the Duster was later presented to journalists on 8 December 2009 and officially launched at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show in March.
Constructed on the B0 platform, this model spans long and wide, offering a ground clearance of . Its cargo volume reaches up to , which can be expanded beyond by folding down the rear seats.
The first-generation offered both front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations. The 4x4 variants incorporate Nissan's all-wheel-drive technology featuring three selectable modes: Auto (which activates rear wheels when front traction is lost), Lock (synchronizes rear axle speed with front wheels), and 2WD (front-wheel drive focused on fuel economy).
The styling took some cues from the classic Renault 4.
Facelift
At the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2013, an updated version of the Dacia Duster was revealed. Exterior enhancements included a newly designed chrome grille, revamped headlamp units, redesigned roof rails, and fresh 16-inch alloy wheels. Minor revisions were also made to the rear design. Inside, updates aligned with other recent Dacia models improved both aesthetics and features. Additionally, a new TCe 125 1.2-liter direct-injection turbocharged engine was introduced.
In 2016, enhancements included a redesigned steering wheel and the launch of the Blackshadow trim level.
Safety
Standard safety equipment on the Dacia Duster includes Bosch 8.1 anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), and emergency brake assist (EBA). Some versions offer optional electronic stability control (ESC) along with understeer control (CSV) and traction control system (ASR), which optimizes traction by redistributing torque away from slipping wheels in four-wheel-drive models.
Passive safety features typically consist of two front airbags (availability varies by market), three-point seat belts equipped with load limiters, and optional side head/thorax airbags designed to protect occupants during lateral impacts. Certain trims also provide pyrotechnic pretensioners for front seatbelts.
Safety performance varies depending on regional specifications: The Indian variant lacking airbags and ABS received zero stars for adult occupant protection and two stars for child safety according to Global NCAP testing in 2017; when equipped with a driver airbag but no ABS, it scored three stars for adults and two stars for children. The Latin American base model featuring one airbag but no ABS earned four stars for adults and two stars for toddlers from Latin NCAP in 2015.
Under its standard European configuration tested by Euro NCAP in 2011, the Duster achieved a three-star rating overall. It scored 74% for adult occupant protection, 78% for child occupant protection, but only managed 28% pedestrian protection and 29% safety assist marks—limited partly due to ESC being optional and absence of a speed limiter.
Engines
| Name | Code | Capacity | Configuration | Power | Torque | Top speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol | ||||||
| 1.2 TCe 125 | H5Ft | 1,197 cc (73.0 cu in) | I4 DOHC Turbocharged | 92 kW (125 PS; 123 hp) at 5250 rpm | 205 N⋅m (151 lb⋅ft) at 2000 rpm | 175 km/h (109 mph) |
| 1.3 TCe | H5Ht | 1,332 cc (81.3 cu in) | I4 DOHC Turbocharged | 116 kW (158 PS; 156 hp) | 254 N⋅m (187 lb⋅ft) | N/A |
| 1.5 16V | H4K | 1,498 cc (91.4 cu in) | I4 DOHC | 78 kilowatts (105 hp) at 5600 rpm | 142 newton-metres (105 lbf⋅ft) at 4000 rpm | 160 kilometres per hour (99 mph) |
| 1.6 16V 105 | K4M 690 | 1,598[convert: needs unit name] | I4 DOHC | 77[convert: needs unit name] at 5750 rpm | 148[convert: needs unit name] at 3750 rpm | 164[convert: needs unit name] |
| 1.6 16V Ethanol fuel | K4M Flexible-fuel vehicle | 1,598[convert: needs unit name] | I4 DOHC | 84[convert: needs unit name] at 5750 rpm | 152[convert: needs unit name] at 3750 rpm | 165[convert: needs unit name] |
| 1.6 16V Bi-fuel | K4M Bi-fuel vehicle | 1,598[convert: needs unit name] | I4 DOHC | 75[convert: needs unit name] at 5750 rpm | {{convert{144}} at 3750 rpm | {{convert{162}} |
| Diesel | ||||||
Marketing and production
The debut of the first-generation Dacia Duster occurred in March 2010 across Europe, Turkey, Algeria, and Morocco, with starting prices set at €11,900 for the two-wheel drive variant and €13,900 for the four-wheel drive model. In Romania, pricing was more competitive, beginning at €10,500 and €11,500 respectively. Beginning in June of the same year, the Duster broadened its market reach to include Ukraine, Jordan, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, and select African countries under the Renault brand; by the following year, it had entered markets within the Persian Gulf region.
By the year 2014, vehicles badged as Dacia accounted for approximately 40% of worldwide Duster sales, whereas those sold under the Renault name comprised about 60%, reflecting a decline from the previous year's ratio of seventy percent Renault branding.
In June of 2011, Renault unveiled the Duster to South American audiences during the Buenos Aires Motor Show. Manufacturing facilities were set up in Curitiba, Brazil to serve Brazil, Argentina, and Chile markets; meanwhile, production for Mexico and Ecuador took place at Colombia’s Sofasa plant. Sales efforts commenced towards the end of that year.
Production of the first-generation Duster also took place in Moscow through Avtoframos, with an annual volume near eighty thousand units. Introduced to the Russian market in March of 2012 with a base price around $14,400, it achieved sales of two hundred thousand units within two and a half years. An updated version featuring enhanced engines and additional options was launched there in June of 2015.
Dacia made its entry into the United Kingdom market in 2012. The Duster garnered several honors including "Scottish Car of the Year," "SUV of the Year," and "Budget Car of the Year" awarded by the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers. That same year marked its introduction into Ireland as well.
Since its launch in Western Europe in 2011, ethanol-compatible flex-fuel variants have been available. The Bi-Fuel LPG model—equipped with an original Landi Renzo system—was offered across Eastern Europe as well as Italy, Germany, Poland, Spain, and the Netherlands; by January of 2013 this option had extended into France. The LPG version gained particular traction in Poland due to its K4M engine’s hydraulic lifters which eliminate the need for valve clearance adjustments. As of 2014, only five EU countries—namely the UK, Ireland, Belgium, Romania, and Luxembourg—did not provide LPG versions within their markets.
UK
The Dacia Duster made its UK debut in 2012 and has earned multiple accolades, such as the 2012 Top Gear Bargain of the Year, 2012 Scottish Car of the Year, and the 2014 Carbuyer.co.uk Best Small SUV award. It stood as Dacia's top-selling model within the UK market, achieving sales of 20,000 units by 2016 out of a total 70,000 Dacia vehicles sold.
Russia
Launched in Russia in 2012 under the Renault Duster name, its affordable pricing combined with off-road performance generated significant interest, resulting in preorder waiting periods extending up to 18 months. During the first half of 2013, Renault Duster moved 40,710 units, ranking as the fourth highest-selling vehicle in Russia. Tailored to Russian buyers, it incorporated the Renault Start remote engine ignition system aimed at lowering emissions. A refreshed model arrived in June 2015, featuring enhanced engines that offered more power and improved fuel economy, an automatic transmission option, refined interior ergonomics and materials, along with a redesigned exterior appearance.
India
Renault introduced the Duster to the Indian market on 4 July 2012 with adaptations suited for local terrain, including strengthened suspension and underbody protection for off-road use. The all-wheel drive (AWD) variant was added in 2014 with selectable driving modes but was discontinued by 2020. In April 2019, Renault India announced it would not launch the second-generation Duster domestically, extending production of the first generation until the anticipated arrival of the third generation around 2026. A second facelift brought updates to the bumper and grille aligning with Renault’s current design language. The vehicle was available with a 1.5 L K9K diesel engine until production ceased in April 2020 due to Bharat Stage 6 emission regulations. Ultimately, Renault ended Duster manufacturing in India by February 2022.
South Africa
Renault introduced the Duster to South Africa in October 2013, initially importing units from India where it was manufactured under the Dacia brand for right-hand drive markets such as the UK and Ireland. By September 2015, a facelifted version was launched and imports were shifted to Romania.
Colombia
Debuting in Colombia in 2012 as the Renault Duster, it rapidly became the nation’s best-selling SUV. Produced locally by SOFASA in Envigado, it was available in four distinct trims:
- 1.6 Expression: Equipped with a driver’s airbag, front power windows, a 1.6L 16-valve engine producing 110 PS, and a five-speed manual transmission.
- 2.0 Dynamique: Adds dual airbags, rear power windows, ABS brakes, fog lamps, leather-wrapped steering wheel, electric side mirrors, and a six-speed manual gearbox; GPS navigation and leather upholstery were optional.
- 2.0 AT: Mirrors Dynamique features but fitted with a four-speed automatic transmission.
- 2.0 Dynamique 4X4: Incorporates all Dynamique equipment plus four-wheel drive and headlights featuring black backgrounds.
Local production ended in Colombia in 2021. The Duster was primarily exported to Mexico, Ecuador, and Bolivia. From May 2014 onwards, Dynamique models offered an optional Media Nav system including GPS functionality.
Romania
In October 2015, Renault launched a limited edition called "Dacia Duster Connected by Orange" in Romania. This special version included a Wi-Fi hotspot with a complimentary two-year Orange subscription, a rear-view camera, new brown exterior paintwork, updated 16-inch wheels, and electrically heated front seats.
Renault Duster Oroch
The Renault Duster Oroch represents a double cab pickup variant of the Duster, marking Renault's foray into the pickup truck market. Positioned as an intermediate option between compact and full-size pickups, it distinguishes itself by offering four full-sized doors, unlike most smaller pickups which typically feature only two or three. This model was first revealed on 18 June 2015 at the Buenos Aires Motor Show, having been initially previewed by a concept vehicle showcased at the 2014 São Paulo Motor Show.
Since its launch in South America in September 2015, the Duster Oroch has been equipped with either a 1.6-litre or a 2.0-litre petrol engine, paired respectively with 5-speed and 6-speed transmissions. An automatic gearbox variant became available starting in 2016.
Nissan Terrano
In CIS countries and India, the Duster is marketed under the name Nissan Terrano, featuring unique styling elements distinct from the Renault version. Historically, the Terrano name was linked to the Nissan Pathfinder model. Within the Indian market, the Terrano has been replaced by the Nissan Kicks, which is built on the B0 platform.
Travec Tecdrah TTi
The Travec Tecdrah TTi is an off-road vehicle derived from the first-generation Dacia Duster launched in 2011. It incorporates a plastic body mounted on a space frame developed by APAL (Russia), originally utilized on the APAL Stalker model.
Reception
British motoring journalist Jonny Smith commended the Duster’s capability on rugged mountain terrain during a Fifth Gear evaluation in Morocco, though he remarked on its modest interior finish. Likewise, James May conducted tests for Top Gear magazine.
The Dacia Duster earned the "Autobest 2011" award, chosen by a panel representing fifteen countries based on factors such as fuel efficiency, adaptability, and design appeal. It surpassed rivals including the Renault Fluence, which secured third place.
Additionally, it was shortlisted for the "2011 European Car of the Year" accolade, praised as "an exceptional value," "a capable off-roader," and recognized for its functional design combined with aesthetic appeal.
In 2012, it received the "Scottish Car of the Year" title and was honored with "The Bargain of the Year" award from Top Gear.
In India, leading automotive publications named the Renault Duster as the "2013 Indian Car of the Year".
Second generation (HM; 2017)
The second iteration of the Dacia Duster was introduced at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show and began production in Romania by November that year. Although it continues to utilize the Nissan B0+ platform from its predecessor, it features entirely redesigned body panels while maintaining similar exterior dimensions. The interior received a comprehensive overhaul along with enhanced soundproofing measures that halved cabin noise levels. Cargo space remains competitive with 445 litres available in two-wheel-drive versions and 376 litres in four-wheel-drive models.
Significant enhancements include electric power steering, a MultiView camera system composed of four cameras, blind spot detection, automatic climate control, keyless entry and ignition systems, and daytime running lights. Ground clearance was increased compared to previous models, complemented by hill-start assist and hill descent control features. The highest trim level includes 17-inch wheels; meanwhile, the mid-tier Comfort trim offers amenities such as Bluetooth connectivity, air conditioning, satellite navigation, rear parking sensors with camera assistance, cruise control, a six-speed transmission, alloy wheels, and sport-style front seats.
Engine choices continue with updated versions of prior engines: a 1.5-litre diesel alongside 1.6- and 1.2-litre petrol units. The diesel variant is available with a dual-clutch automatic transmission known as EDC. While a 2.0-litre petrol engine remains accessible in GCC and select Latin American markets, it is not offered in Europe due to emissions restrictions.
In 2018, Renault launched a Euro 6-compliant version of the common-rail 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine that utilizes AdBlue injection technology to lower NOx emissions.
A refreshed model appeared in 2021 featuring further updates to both styling elements and onboard technologies.
Europe
In December 2017, the second-generation Dacia Duster was assessed by Euro NCAP, receiving a rating of three out of five stars, which was lower than many competitors that commonly achieved five stars. It scored 27 points (71%) for adult occupant safety, 32 points (66%) for child occupant protection, 24 points (56%) for pedestrian safety, and 5 points (37%) for safety assistance technologies.
The frontal offset impact test indicated protection ranging from marginal to good for the driver and adequate to good for the front passenger. In the full-width frontal test, the driver's head protection was rated poor, while other body areas were deemed adequate to good.
Pedestrian safety results were generally good or adequate; however, protection was poor near the base of the windshield and pillars. The bumper provided good leg protection, with consistently strong pelvis protection.
The evaluation of safety features was reduced due to missing elements such as knee airbags, rear side chest airbags, side pelvis airbags, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance. Nonetheless, the vehicle was equipped with a speed limiter and seat belt reminder system.
Latin America
| Test | Points | % |
|---|---|---|
| Overall: | Template:Rating | |
| Adult occupant: | 11 | 29% |
| Child occupant: | 11 | 23% |
| Pedestrian | 24 | 51% |
| Safety Assist: | 15 | 35% |
The basic Latin American version of the Duster equipped with two airbags and ESC achieved four stars for adult occupants and three stars for child occupants in Latin NCAP testing conducted in 2019.
By contrast, the 2021 model assembled in Brazil or Romania, tested with identical safety specifications, received zero stars. During these tests, the passenger door unexpectedly opened and a fuel leak was detected, leading Latin NCAP to call on Renault to issue recalls to resolve these safety issues.
Duster Eco-G
In January 2020, at the Brussels Motor Show, Dacia unveiled the Duster Eco-G featuring a 3-cylinder 1.0 TCe engine delivering 100 hp and capable of running on LPG.
Duster Pick-Up
Dacia launched a single cab pick-up variant based on the four-wheel-drive Duster in October 2020. This model was developed in partnership with Romanian engineering firm Romturingia from Câmpulung, which had previously converted approximately 500 Dusters into pickups since 2014 for utility provider OMV Petrom. The pick-up includes a cargo bed with a loading capacity and payload specifications. It offers ground clearance of and is powered by a Blue dCi diesel engine producing and torque.
Duster Fiskal
In 2018, Dacia's Austrian distributor created the Dacia Duster Fiskal, a panel van version of the second-generation model. It features a flat metal loading floor, metal cargo partition, and covered rear side windows. Although configured as a strict two-seater, rear side doors remain functional. The importer had also marketed a Fiskal variant based on the first-generation Duster.
Reception
In July 2018, British automotive website carwow reviewed the Duster and highlighted several drawbacks including limited standard equipment relative to its price point, interior materials perceived as plasticky and dark, absence of illuminated vanity mirrors, and noisy electric window motors. On the positive side, reviewers praised practical folding seats, rear-view and panoramic cameras, adjustable steering wheel depth, strong urban visibility and handling characteristics, soft suspension setup, and availability of a four-wheel-drive lock mode.
Facelift
The redesigned Duster was presented on June 22, 2021, with commercial availability commencing in September. The refresh introduced a new front and rear lighting design inspired by the third-generation Sandero, a more streamlined grille design, and an optional sliding central armrest.
The engine choices were narrowed down to two petrol variants (130hp and 150hp), a 100hp petrol/LPG model, and a 115hp diesel option equipped with all-wheel drive. The top-tier engine now features a standard 6-speed automatic gearbox (EDC6).
2022 refresh
In June 2022, the Duster underwent a subtle update consistent with the broader Dacia lineup refresh. Modifications included the adoption of the updated brand logo on the grille, steering wheel, and badges. Certain trims also received revised air vents resembling those found in the Renault Duster. This facelift was also applied to the Commercial version available exclusively in the UK.
Duster Pick-up
The facelifted Dacia Duster Pick-up, manufactured by Romturingia and officially endorsed by Dacia, was introduced in France in November 2022 through specialist dealer Borel.
Techroad
First revealed at the 2019 Geneva Motor Show, the Techroad special edition was marketed under different names such as Charisma or Ultimate in various markets, while retaining the Techroad designation in Romania.
Black Collector
Debuted in September 2019, the Black Collector Edition was a France-exclusive variant of the Duster available solely through online sales.
SE Twenty
To commemorate twenty years under Renault’s ownership, Dacia launched the SE Twenty special edition in January 2020 for the Sandero Stepway, Logan MCV Stepway, and Duster models.
Duster Extreme
Launched in August 2021, the limited-run Dacia Duster Extreme went on sale from January 2022 with prices beginning at €21,900. Following discontinuation after the June 2022 update, this edition was reintroduced in October 2022.
Duster "Mat Edition"
Unveiled at the 2022 Paris Motor Show, the "Mat Edition" stands out with its unique matte gray exterior and is fully loaded with every available feature. Orders became available at the beginning of 2023. This variant is equipped with a 1.3-litre TCe 150 petrol engine delivering , coupled with an EDC automatic transmission.
Discontinuation
The second-generation Dacia Duster was phased out from the Romanian configurator in early 2024, coinciding with the start of production for its third-generation successor in late 2023. Customer orders for the new model commenced in March.
The decision to discontinue was influenced by the introduction of the General Safety Regulation 2 (GSR 2), which imposed updated emissions and safety requirements. Although produced since 2018 without significant revisions, the existing engines complied with Euro 6 standards but fell short of the forthcoming Euro 7 regulations set to take effect in 2025. Manufacturing persisted until June 2024, with remaining inventory sold through July. Final orders mainly featured the dependable 1.5 dCi diesel engine, which has been replaced in the new generation by the HYBRID 140 powertrain first launched in the Jogger model in 2021.
Development History
Previewed by the Bigster concept in 2021 as part of Renault’s Renaulution strategy, the third-generation Duster retains approximately 90% of the concept’s design elements. Official confirmation arrived in 2020, marking this generation as the end of diesel engine availability in most regions. Throughout 2023, prototypes underwent public testing, while pre-production units began assembly. The formal reveal took place on 29 November 2023 in Portugal, with a public debut scheduled for the 2024 Geneva Motor Show. European customers were able to place orders from early 2024, with deliveries starting between May and June.
Known as Renault Duster in markets such as India, Ukraine, South America, Australia, New Zealand, Turkey, and Egypt, this platform will also support derivatives including a seven-seat Bigster SUV, a coupe-style SUV named C-Neo, and a half-ton pickup truck based on the Renault Niagara Concept.
Exterior
Under David Durand’s design direction, the third-generation Duster presents a more robust and angular appearance featuring Y-shaped LED lighting signatures, prominent plastic skid plates, and rear door handles integrated into the bodywork. Approximately one-fifth of its plastic components are made from recycled Starkle material inspired by the Manifesto concept. The vehicle is also physically larger compared to its predecessor.
Interior
Drawing inspiration from the Bigster concept, the cabin introduces a redesigned steering wheel alongside a 10.1-inch central touchscreen and debuts a 7-inch digital instrument cluster. Connectivity options include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration as well as a reversing camera. The trunk capacity has grown by 6%, now offering 472 liters of space. An optional Sleep Pack accessory provides a foldable double bed complete with table and storage compartments.
Dacia has also launched Youclip, an innovative accessory mounting system featuring square attachment points throughout the interior capable of supporting loads up to approximately 8 kg each.
Trim levels
The Duster III is offered in four distinct trims: Essential, Expression, Journey, and Extreme. The Extreme trim is distinguished by copper-colored accents on the exterior mirrors and interior elements. In the Turkish market, the available trims include Evolution and Techno.
Features
Constructed on the CMF-B platform, which it shares with models like Logan, Sandero, and Jogger, the third-generation Duster introduces mild-hybrid and full-hybrid powertrain options alongside bi-fuel variants. It incorporates a multi-link rear suspension system also utilized in forthcoming Renault vehicles and features the new Sweet 400 electronic architecture. This advanced system supports enhanced driver assistance technologies that comply with the GSR.2 regulations effective from July 2024. Standard safety equipment encompasses automatic emergency braking with pedestrian and two-wheeler detection, traffic sign recognition paired with an overspeed warning, lane keeping assist, drowsiness detection, rear parking assistance, emergency stop signal, cruise control with speed limiter, and automatic low-beam headlights.
An optional 4×4 drivetrain provides five selectable driving modes—Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road, and Eco—and offers a ground clearance of up to 217 mm. The two-wheel-drive version has a slightly lower clearance of 209 mm.
Powertrain
All engines powering the Duster III are manufactured by Horse Romania SA.
| Name | Code | Displacement | Layout | Output | Transmission | Battery | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petrol / LPG: | |||||||
| 1.0 ECO-G 100 | H4Dt | 999 cc | Inline-3 turbocharged | 99 hp | 6-speed manual / EDC | – | Euro 6d compliant |
| Petrol hybrid: | |||||||
| 1.2 TCe 130 | HR12 | 1199 cc | Inline-3 turbocharged | 128 hp | 6-speed manual / EDC | 48V lithium-ion (0.9 kWh) | Euro 6d compliant |
| 1.6 Hybrid 140 | H4M | 1598 cc | Inline-4 | 93 hp (combined:138 hp) | Multi-mode 4-speed automatic | 1.2 kWh | |
| Diesel: | |||||||
| dCi | K9K | 1461 cc | Inline-4 | 115 hp | 6-speed manual | – | Available exclusively in Morocco, Moldova, and Ukraine |
Other models
Besides the long-wheelbase Bigster SUV variant, there are reports of future models aimed at the South American market: a pickup truck codenamed H1312 and a coupe SUV identified as D1312.
Safety
Built upon the Renault–Nissan Common Module Family (CMF) architecture, this vehicle offers improved crash protection and advanced driver assistance systems. Nevertheless, it is not expected to achieve a five-star rating from the Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) in Australia.
Production and sales
Manufacturing is scheduled to commence by late 2023 at the Mioveni facility,[2] with commercial availability expected in spring 2024. The Bigster long-wheelbase version will be produced at the same plant starting in 2025, as confirmed by Dacia Romania's director.[3]
This model will be marketed across Europe and sold under the Renault badge in India, where its first generation was also available.[4] Entry into the Australian market is planned for 2025, as announced by Renault Australia's managing director Glen Sealey.[5]
Motorsport
A specially modified Duster equipped with a V6 engine and piloted by Alain Prost secured second place in the 2009–2010 French ice racing championship known as the Andros Trophy.
In 2010, two Duster vehicles took part in the Rallye Aicha des Gazelles, where Team 315 achieved first place overall, winning the crossover category.
For the 2011 Pikes Peak International Hill Climb, Dacia entered the Duster in the "Unlimited Class," featuring an 850 bhp VR38DETT engine derived from the Nissan GT-R. This vehicle, tuned by Tork Engineering and Renault Sport, was driven by Jean-Phillipe Dayraut.
During the 2013 Dakar Rally held across Peru, Argentina, and Chile, two Renault Duster prototypes powered by V6 engines exceeding 3.5 litres competed in the event.
Renault enhanced their Dusters for the 2015 and 2016 Dakar Rallies by incorporating Nissan VK50VE V8 engines, SADEV transmissions, Reiger suspension systems, and Powerbrake six-piston brake calipers.
Dakar results
Concept Vehicles
At the 2009 Geneva Motor Show, Renault Design Central Europe revealed the Dacia Duster concept, a 5-door SUV designed to meet family requirements with a roomy interior and an expansive cargo area. This model incorporated rear-hinged suicide doors to facilitate easier entry and exit. Drawing inspiration from the 2004 Nissan Qashqai concept, it shared certain stylistic traits while differing from the final production variant. The concept was equipped with an engine delivering emissions of 139 g/km of CO₂ and a fuel consumption rating of .
As Dacia's inaugural concept car, created in collaboration with Renault Design Technocentre, the Duster featured adaptable seating arrangements—typically accommodating four passengers but convertible to two seats, thereby expanding cargo capacity to fit a bicycle. It was powered by a 1.5-litre inline-four diesel engine utilizing Bosch Mono-Jetronic fuel injection, generating at 5400 rpm and torque at 2000 rpm. Offered with either front-wheel or all-wheel drive on the Nissan B platform, it could accelerate from zero to in 9.6 seconds. The anticipated price point was approximately €15,000 (equivalent to US$18,750).
In 2012, at the São Paulo Motor Show, Renault introduced the DCross Concept, which was based on the production Renault Duster. This version highlighted durability and off-road performance with features such as a unique green and matte black exterior finish, increased ground clearance, roof racks, and an externally mounted spare tire.
Romania displayed an armored combat adaptation of the Duster outfitted with a winch and a roof-mounted machine gun.
Later, in October 2014 at the São Paulo Motor Show, Renault showcased the Duster Oroch, a double-cab pickup concept that borrowed design elements from the DCross Concept.
In 2016, Dacia unveiled the Dustruck, a six-wheel-drive vehicle combining the Duster’s body with a truck chassis and potentially powered by a V8 engine.
Previous Usage of the Name
The designation Dacia Duster was previously applied to market the ARO 10 in several territories, including the United Kingdom during the 1980s and early 1990s. This vehicle was offered in both soft-top roadster and two-door estate configurations.
Sales
| Year | Europe[lower-roman 1] | Turkey | Russia | Mexico | Colombia | Brazil | India | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duster | Terrano | |||||||
| 2010 | 57,438 | |||||||
| 2011 | 134,001 | 40 | ||||||
| 2012 | 101,452 | 47,344 | 8,464 | 46,897 | 23,731 | |||
| 2013 | 88,082 | 83,702 | 10,994 | 50,224 | 51,411 | 7,390 | ||
| 2014 | 127,772 | 76,138 | 12,652 | 48,877 | 39,807 | 21,286 | ||
| 2015 | 125,416 | 43,923 | 10,213 | 34,199 | 24,172 | 10,670 | ||
| 2016 | 139,826 | 44,001 | 12,360 | 25,373 | 18,700 | 4,717 | ||
| 2017 | 145,682 | 43,828 | 10,919 | 17,791 | 15,158 | 3,035 | ||
| 2018 | 180,391 | 41,409 | 10,663 | 23,581 | 10,937 | 1,162 | ||
| 2019 | 220,167 | 39,031 | 7,521 | 26,093 | 8,974 | 429 | ||
| 2020 | 139,269 | 17,402 | 31,640 | 4,048 | 19,477 | 3,685 | ||
| 2021 | 144,772 | 19,038 | 41,471 | 6,257 | 9,280 | 22,459 | 2,870 | |
| 2022 | 149,648 | 25,011 | 6,039 | 10,679 | 22,516 | |||
| 2023 | 24,065 | 5,521 | 7,017 | 26,507 | ||||
| 2024 | 215,024 | (2nd gen) 14,635 + ? (3rd gen) |
20,697 |
|||||
External links
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