Dacia Duster for only 270 euros per month, to get back to basics

Dacia has kept its commitment to offer the new Duster for under 20,000 euros. It is also offered with a great leasing deal.

The first observation when reading the technical specifications of the Dacia Duster Essential is that you will have to deal with a bi-fuel petrol GPL. Dacia is the only manufacturer to offer this solution across all its thermal models under the ECO-G label. The new Duster benefits from the first-time integration of this proven technology. Running on GPL, it emits on average 10% less CO2 than an equivalent petrol engine. There’s also no need to think hard about the transmission, as it will be a front-wheel drive with a 6-speed manual gearbox.

Glacier white for the bodywork, so no Dacia blue unlike some models from the manufacturer. If you opt for Slate gray or Lichen khaki, the only two optional colors, it will cost you 600 euros. To equip the adventurer, there are good old 16-inch black matte steel wheels as the only choice. Dacia has chosen to omit wheel covers, and frankly, it’s not a bad thing. The rugged style is embraced and suits the Duster well.

No savings on safety!

Inside, there is an elegant two-tone dark gray and light gray fabric upholstery. There is a real effort made on the quality of materials with very good quality plastics and touches of light gray to brighten up the whole. Dial gauges are the only companions as this version does not offer a digital screen, but instead a phone holder and a Bluetooth connection paired with a USB station.

So far, the offering is correct, and one might think it would degrade upon reading the list of standard equipment… but no!!! There are plenty of pleasant surprises, including:

• Manual air conditioning
• Roof rails
• Electric and heated mirrors
• Tinted windows
• LED lighting at the front and rear
• 40/60 split rear bench
• Isofix equipment
• Cruise control and speed limiter

As a result, we won’t even linger on the list of options that only concern drivers needing a roof rack, a tow hitch for trailers or bikes, or a trunk protection. Frankly, if you want more than the standard equipment, you’ve just mistakenly chosen the wrong trim or have a desperate need to spend more. Dacia has surprised us; there is indeed much more than essential in this entry-level version!

Now, you just have to decide whether you want to pay outright or take advantage of the Long-Term Rental offer without a down payment at 269.27 euros per month for 49 months and 50,000 km. It’s clear and precise, just like the vehicle.

Dacia seems to have succeeded in renewing its Duster by modernizing it without losing its soul. However, a little question is nagging in our minds. At almost the same price, what could possibly lead us to prefer a Dacia Spring? We are searching…