Dacia Duster Long-Term Review: 8000 Miles in the Versatile SUV

Introduction

As budget-conscious drivers, we Brits have developed a keen eye for great deals. During the cost-of-living crisis, hunting for bargains has become a national pastime. From high street promotions to supermarket rollbacks, we seek genuine value for our money. So, when a car like the Dacia Duster emerged, priced under £20,000, skepticism is understandable. Could this stylish SUV truly deliver on its promise of affordability without cutting corners?

In the summer of 2025, I stood in a Dacia dealership near Richmond, eagerly anticipating the unveiling of my very own Duster. After years of owning second-hand vehicles, the anticipation of a brand-new car was thrilling. The guided customer experience included a tour of colors, trims, and exciting options, building up the anticipation until the final moment – my Duster was revealed. The Sandstone paintwork gleamed, and my excitement only grew as I prepared for 8000 miles of adventures in the beloved Romanian Defender.

What Makes the Dacia Duster Stand Out?

The Duster's transformation since its launch last year is stunning. The new model boasts a captivating design, practical features, and budget-friendly options that truly make it a remarkable entry in the SUV market. The mid-range Journey trim package includes a 10.1-inch infotainment screen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, navigation, and useful amenities like automatic air conditioning and parking cameras.

Come equipped with a hybrid setup, the Duster combines a 1.6-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor, generating 138bhp and an impressive 151lb-ft of torque for seamless front-wheel drive. Fuel efficiency is another selling point, as it boasts an impressive 55.4 mpg. Dacia doesn't compromise, offering a full 4x4 variant for those seeking off-road adventures, further showcasing its versatility.

Adventures Await: The Long Road Ahead

One of the most exciting aspects of owning a Duster is the chance to explore various terrains. My initial lifetime with the Duster included several long trips covering 2000 miles over just a few weeks, testing its capabilities during my stag do, a cross-country celebration, and the trip to my wedding. Throughout these journeys, the Duster felt spacious and comfortable, with ample room for luggage and passengers. If you're looking for a range of functionality, the Duster has you covered.

Comfort and Spaciousness

The Duster offers 517 liters of boot space, making it practical for road trips or transporting wedding decorations without feeling cramped. The cabin's design allows for comfortable seating that minimizes tightness among five passengers. However, the speakers left a bit to be desired – producing less-than-ideal sound quality which became evident during our road trip playlist. With all the excitement on the road, I wish for better audio to complement the adventures ahead.

And while the Duster’s sound system wasn’t up to par, its fuel efficiency was the highlight. The hybrid powertrain allowed for a mere £260 in fuel costs over our 2000-mile journey, making fuel expenses a fluent subject and proving once more Dacia's commitment to value.

Off-Road Capabilities: Testing Limits

On one adventure to Corfe Castle in Dorset, I swapped my standard Duster for a 130bhp version equipped for off-road driving. Though not the toughest terrain, the Duster excelled in navigating the hilly landscape, providing a great sense of control. The lightweight steering made off-road maneuvering smooth and stress-free.

With its parked cameras and a robust grip, the Duster demonstrated impressive four-wheel drive capabilities, solving issues I didn't foresee. It allowed me to tackle steep hills and rough terrain comfortably, a feat few SUVs in its price range could achieve.

Camping Adventures: Taking Comfort to the Great Outdoors

The Duster’s final mission was equally unique – a weekend camping trip with a new Sleep Pack conversion that transforms the back of the SUV into a compact sleeper. Despite the logistical challenge of space, I found a way to fit everything I needed while maintaining the Duster’s comfort.

Setting up the tent and bed was initially complex but, once settled, the experience proved surprisingly enjoyable. The mattress provided comfort and coziness, with blackout coverings keeping the sunlight at bay for a restful night in the wild. Although there were a few hiccups in setting up, the result was well worth the effort. Camping in my Dacia Duster was just another way this adaptable SUV stood numerous tests of versatility.

Conclusion: The Duster's Lasting Impression

After four months and 8000 miles, I reflected on my time with the Dacia Duster. From commuting to off-road excursions and camping under the stars, it proved itself a reliable companion through various circumstances. Retroactive to practicality, comfort, and economy, the Duster transformed into one of the most valuable vehicles in the Autocar fleet.

As I hand back the keys, I feel an unexpected wave of sadness. This versatile SUV, priced at £26,700, showcased a remarkable blend of style, functionality, and fuel efficiency. The Dacia Duster may not be perfect, but it remains one of the best all-around vehicles available and could be the perfect fit for those heavily considering their next automotive purchase.

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