New Dacia Duster to Launch in 2016 with Seven Seats and 1.6 dCi Diesel
Dacia is preparing a new generation Duster for 2016, expanding the range with a seven-seat option and Renault’s 1.6 dCi diesel engine for the first time.
Dacia is preparing to launch a new generation of its popular Duster SUV in 2016. The most significant change for this new model is the introduction of a seven-seat variant, marking the first time the Duster will be available with three rows. This move targets families and buyers seeking extra capacity, all while maintaining the Duster’s reputation as one of the most affordable options in the SUV segment.
Introduction: Dacia Duster to Offer Seven Seats in 2016
Background: The Duster’s Success and Evolution
Since its introduction in 2010, the Dacia Duster has established itself as a strong seller for both Dacia and Renault across Europe and in other markets. The model received a facelift in 2013, which was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show, bringing refreshed styling and updated features. The Duster’s blend of practicality, ruggedness, and low pricing has made it a favourite among budget-conscious buyers. With the current version having been on the market for several years, the 2016 update is set to bring significant changes aimed at broadening its appeal.
Seven Seats: Expanding Practicality
The headline feature for the new generation is the availability of a seven-seat layout. The third row will be offered as an option, reportedly costing less than €800. This addition is expected to make the Duster one of the most accessible three-row SUVs available, undercutting rivals like the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso and Ford Galaxy by a considerable margin. The move to offer a third row means the Duster will grow in size, allowing for increased passenger capacity while retaining its budget positioning.
The seven-seat configuration is aimed at families and those who require more space for passengers or luggage. By keeping the cost of the third row low, Dacia ensures that the Duster remains within reach for buyers who might otherwise be priced out of the larger SUV market. This approach aligns with Dacia’s broader strategy of offering practical vehicles at competitive prices.
Engines: Introducing the 1.6 dCi Diesel
To support the increased passenger capacity, the new Duster will introduce the Renault-Nissan 1.6 dCi diesel engine to its line-up. This engine is already in use in various Renault and Nissan models and is expected to be offered in a 130 hp version for the Duster. The diesel range will reportedly span from 90 to 130 hp, with petrol engines also available within a similar power band. The addition of the 1.6 dCi is intended to provide the necessary performance for carrying more passengers and luggage, while also offering improved efficiency over previous engine options.
The new engine options should help the Duster compete more effectively with established rivals that offer higher-output diesels. This is particularly important as buyers in the seven-seat segment often look for vehicles capable of handling heavier loads without sacrificing fuel economy.
Market Launch and Positioning
Dacia plans to launch the new Duster in Europe first, where the model has a strong following. After its European debut, the new generation will be rolled out to other markets around the world, including those where the Duster is sold under the Renault badge. The expected starting price for the new Duster is around €12,000, maintaining the brand’s reputation for value and undercutting many competitors in the segment.
The availability of a seven-seat option at a price below €800 further strengthens the Duster’s appeal to families and those needing extra space. This strategy is likely to attract buyers who have previously considered larger or more expensive SUVs but were deterred by higher costs. By broadening the Duster’s offering, Dacia aims to capture a larger share of the family SUV market.
What to Expect Next: Unveiling and Further Details
Further information about the new Duster’s dimensions, equipment levels, and market rollout is expected to be announced at either the 2016 Geneva Motor Show or the 2016 Paris Motor Show, depending on the final launch schedule. Until then, the current Duster will remain on sale, continuing with the updates introduced at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. The new generation’s debut is anticipated to generate significant interest, given the model’s popularity and the importance of the changes being introduced.
The introduction of a seven-seat variant and the adoption of the 1.6 dCi engine represent major steps forward for the Duster, positioning it as a more versatile and capable option within the budget SUV class. Buyers can expect more details to emerge as the launch approaches, particularly regarding interior space, equipment options, and how the new model will compare to its rivals in terms of value and practicality.
Summary Table: 2016 Dacia Duster New Generation Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Seven-seat option | Available as an optional third row, reportedly under €800 |
| Engine range | Diesel: 90 to 130 hp (including 1.6 dCi 130 hp); Petrol: similar power range |
| Starting price | Around €12,000 in Europe |
| Market launch | Europe first, then global rollout as Dacia or Renault |
| Unveiling | Expected at 2016 Geneva or Paris Motor Show |
