How economical is the Dacia Duster in real-world driving?

Real-world economy for the tested Duster averaged around 55–56 mpg over mixed driving (motorways, A-roads and town). This strong fuel efficiency is one of the Duster's key strengths, especially for daily commuting and long-distance use.

Is the Duster capable off-road?

Yes — the Duster’s available 4x4 variant, Lock mode to lock the central differential, good ground clearance and a 24-degree breakover angle make it capable on gravel tracks and grassy inclines. It’s not an extreme off-roader but handles light-to-moderate trails confidently.

How does the Duster compare to rivals like the Nissan Qashqai or Skoda Kamiq?

The Duster undercuts many rivals on price while offering pragmatic space and efficiency. Compared with a Qashqai e-Power, it’s significantly cheaper; versus a Skoda Kamiq, the Duster often provides a more practical boot and optional hybrid powertrain at similar price points. However, premium feel and audio/refinement are areas where some rivals score higher.

Dacia Duster Long-Term Review: 8,000 Miles with the Budget-Friendly Romanian SUV

Q: What engine and hybrid system does the Dacia Duster use?

The Duster in this test uses a full-hybrid setup based on a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine combined with an electric motor and starter-generator. Combined output is approximately 138 bhp and 151 lb ft, driving the front wheels through a clutchless four-speed gearbox.

5 Minutes

an unexpected bargain

The third-generation Dacia Duster arrives as a refreshingly practical SUV that undercuts most rivals on price while offering genuinely useful equipment. After 8,000 miles across motorways, A-roads, country lanes and a few off-road trails, this long-term test shows the Duster as an adaptable everyday car — and one of the best value SUVs on the market in 2025.

Key specifications

Powertrain & economy

Our Journey-spec Duster uses a full hybrid system built around a 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine paired with an electric motor and starter-generator. Combined output is around 138 bhp and 151 lb ft, sent to the front wheels through a clutchless four-speed gearbox. Claimed combined economy sits at about 55.4 mpg; on real-world duty we averaged roughly 56 mpg across mixed driving — an impressive figure for a 1.4-tonne SUV.

Dimensions & capacity

Boot volume: 517 litres with seats up. Fuel tank: 50 litres. Wheels: 18in alloys on Journey trim. Infotainment: 10.1in wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto with built-in navigation; 7.0in driver display. Price of tested car: £26,700 (Journey trim); entry-level models from about £19,380.

Design and practicality

Visually the Duster punches above its price. The high beltline, long bonnet and raised stance give it a rugged presence reminiscent of much pricier off-road icons. Small design motifs such as the Y-shaped lighting cue recur throughout the cabin, and the YouClip accessory points around the dash are genuinely useful for securing phone mounts, cupholders or bags without drilling or aftermarket fittings.

Comfort, interior and equipment

Journey trim includes automatic climate control, four-way parking camera view, cloth seats with blue-accent detailing and 18in wheels. Cabin space is generous for five adults on most journeys; storage and cubby capacity are practical. Downsides include a basic-feeling infotainment experience at times and rather mediocre speakers — not unusual in the budget segment, but noticeable on longer drives.

Performance and driving impressions

On the move the Duster is calm and composed. Light steering makes lane changes and urban manoeuvres easy, while the hybrid system swaps seamlessly between electric and petrol assistance. The 1.6-litre unit can feel gruff under load and the four-speed gearbox sometimes holds revs a little longer than ideal, but the reward is excellent fuel economy: over a 2,000-mile trip the fuel cost was remarkably low.

Off-road ability

The available 4x4 variant (with the milder hybrid) proved capable on gravel lanes and grassy inclines. A Lock mode that locks the centre differential offers extra traction, and the Duster’s 24-degree breakover angle helps prevent grounding on rough tracks — impressive for a sub-£30k SUV.

Practical extras: Sleep Pack and accessories

Optional lifestyle accessories such as the Sleep Pack convert the Duster into a compact camper with a fold-out mattress and a tent attachment. It’s a fun, budget-friendly solution for occasional overnight trips, though the tent can be fiddly to erect and the Sleep Pack occupies most of the 517-litre boot when installed.

Market positioning and comparisons

The Duster competes on value rather than luxury. Compared with mid-range rivals the difference is stark: a Nissan Qashqai e-Power starts well north of the Duster’s price, while a Skoda Kamiq with comparable size may not offer the same hybrid powertrain. Against small hatchbacks such as the Peugeot 208 the Duster offers more space but fewer premium interior touches. For buyers prioritising low running costs, practical utility and rugged styling, the Duster is a hard act to beat.

Pros and cons

Pros: exceptional fuel economy for an SUV, strong value-for-money, roomy boot, pragmatic design, capable mild off-road performance.
Cons: basic audio and microphone quality, seats can lack long-distance cushioning for taller drivers, occasional infotainment glitches.

Verdict

After 8,000 miles the Dacia Duster remains one of the most convincing budget SUVs available in 2025. It delivers rare economy, robust practicality, and surprising off-road chops for its price point. If you want a well-equipped, efficient and characterful crossover that won’t break the bank — and will still hold decent resale value — the Duster deserves serious consideration.

Daniel Rivers

"Hey there, I’m Daniel. From vintage engines to electric revolutions — I live and breathe cars. Buckle up for honest reviews and in-depth comparisons."

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