Dacia Duster Pickup Prototype Spotted Testing in Romania
A single-cab Dacia Duster pickup, modified by Romturingia, has been seen on Romanian roads, hinting at a new utility option for fleet buyers.
A prototype Dacia Duster pickup has been seen testing in Romania, providing the first clear indication that a utility version of the Duster is in development. The vehicle, photographed on public roads, features a single-cab body and an extended open load bed, departing from the standard Duster SUV format.
Coachbuilt conversion for fleet demand
The pickup is not a factory-built Dacia but a conversion by Romturingia, a Romanian specialist known for modifying Dacias for commercial use. According to Romanian sources, the project was initiated to meet requests from large fleet operators seeking a rugged, affordable pickup with off-road capability. Dacia’s own Logan Pickup had left the range after the Logan’s model change, leaving a gap for buyers needing a workhorse with a warranty and local support.
The prototype uses the pre-facelift Duster as its base. The single-cab design maximises loading space, with a reported bed length of 1.7 metres and a payload of up to 400kg. The conversion retains the Duster’s front end and cabin structure, but the rear is reworked to accommodate the open cargo area. The model photographed appears to use many components from the standard Duster, including the front doors and dashboard.
Technical details and market context
No official information has been released on the powertrain, but the prototype is expected to use one of the Duster’s existing engines. The Duster is typically offered with a range of petrol and diesel options, but the specific engine for the pickup has not been confirmed. The vehicle’s underpinnings and drivetrain are likely unchanged from the SUV, which means both front- and all-wheel drive versions could be possible if production proceeds.
Dacia’s involvement in the project appears limited to technical support, with Renault Group not directly producing the pickup. The move reflects a broader trend of European manufacturers responding to local fleet needs with bespoke or semi-official conversions, especially in markets where affordable pickups remain in demand. The Duster itself has been a strong seller in Romania and across Europe, recently passing the 400,000-unit mark at the Mioveni plant (see:Dacia Duster hits 400,000-unit milestone at Mioveni plant).
Potential for wider availability
At the time of spotting, there was no confirmation that Dacia would offer a pickup version through its dealer network. The prototype’s existence, however, suggests that if demand from fleet buyers is strong enough, a limited production run could follow. For now, the Duster pickup remains a coachbuilt solution rather than an official addition to the Dacia range.
