Dacia Duster Black Edition launches in the UK at £17,575
Dacia introduces the Duster Black Edition for UK buyers, offering a vinyl-wrapped finish, upgraded interior and extra kit ahead of the model’s imminent facelift.
Dacia has introduced the Duster Black Edition to the UK market, with orders now open at a starting price of £17,575. This special edition comes as the Romanian manufacturer prepares to update the Duster SUV, marking a final showcase for the outgoing model. The Black Edition is designed to appeal to buyers seeking a more distinctive look and enhanced equipment, positioning itself as a limited-run variant with added features.
Dacia Duster Black Edition: Launch and Pricing
Model Basis and Mechanical Details
The Duster Black Edition is based on the Ambiance dCi 110 4x2, which uses Dacia’s familiar 1.5-litre diesel engine paired with front-wheel drive. This combination has been popular with UK buyers for its blend of economy and practicality. The Black Edition maintains the same mechanical setup, focusing its changes on styling and equipment rather than performance upgrades.
Exterior and Interior Features
A key feature of the Black Edition is its black vinyl wrap, which covers the bodywork in a finish not available on standard Dusters. The car also stands out thanks to its larger 18-inch alloy wheels, giving it a more purposeful stance on the road. These visual changes are aimed at distinguishing the Black Edition from the rest of the Duster range and appealing to those who want a more eye-catching SUV.
Inside, Dacia has upgraded the cabin with leather upholstery, providing a more premium feel compared to the standard model’s fabric trim. The Black Edition also features a 6-inch high-resolution display and a Kenwood-branded media system. This multimedia package includes Bluetooth connectivity, DAB radio, USB and AUX inputs, and a Garmin satellite navigation unit with TMC traffic information. These additions bring the Duster’s equipment level closer to that of some mainstream rivals, which is notable for a model often chosen for its value-focused approach.
Position in the Duster Range and Market Context
The Black Edition arrives at a time when Dacia is preparing to launch a facelifted Duster, which has already been seen undergoing public testing. As such, this special edition serves as a send-off for the current model, maintaining interest in the Duster as the company transitions to the updated version. The launch of the Black Edition also coincides with the 2013 Goodwood Festival of Speed, reflecting Dacia’s growing presence in the UK and its efforts to connect with British car buyers at major automotive events.
The Duster has found considerable success in the UK, with demand at times exceeding supply. Previous limited editions, such as the Garmin and Aventure models, have targeted buyers interested in extra features without the higher prices typically associated with special editions. The Black Edition continues this approach, offering a more upmarket specification while keeping the price below many mainstream competitors’ entry-level SUVs.
Specification Highlights
- Black vinyl body wrap unique to this edition
- 18-inch alloy wheels
- Leather seat upholstery
- Kenwood media system with 6-inch display
- Garmin sat-nav with TMC traffic info
- Bluetooth, DAB radio, USB and AUX ports
Ordering and Availability
The Duster Black Edition is available to order immediately through Dacia’s UK dealer network. As with other Duster models, it is aimed at buyers who prioritise value but also want a more individual appearance and extra equipment. With the next-generation Duster on the horizon, the Black Edition is expected to be one of the final opportunities to purchase the current model with a factory-backed special specification.
Dacia’s Strategy and the Future Duster
Dacia’s strategy with the Black Edition reflects its approach to offering value-driven vehicles with occasional special editions to maintain interest. While the Duster has built its reputation on affordability and practicality, these limited-run models help attract new customers who may be seeking additional features or a more distinctive design. The upcoming facelifted Duster is expected to build on this formula, with updates to styling, technology and possibly efficiency, as the model continues to compete in a crowded SUV segment.
