Renault Group Expands Dacia Duster Lineup with Updated Duster and Clear Distinctions from the Bigster
The leadership of the Dacia-Lada division outlined a refreshed Duster during a recent interview with Automotive News Europe, emphasizing that the upcoming model will retain the four‑wheel drive option while enhancing comfort, handling, and overall practicality. The executive also signaled a meaningful visual and functional update to the vehicle’s design, signaling a stronger emphasis on modern aesthetics and everyday usability.
When comparing the new Duster to the anticipated Bigster crossover, the top executive drew a sharp contrast. The Bigster is positioned as a family‑oriented vehicle focused on cargo capacity and spacious interior arrangements, whereas the Duster is expected to preserve the essential SUV traits that buyers rely on—versatility, urban convenience, and reliable off‑road capability in a compact footprint.
Looking ahead to the mid‑decade horizon, Dacia plans to offer two crossovers, with the Duster’s exterior dimensions remaining stable after the generation shift, not surpassing 4.35 meters in length. The vehicle will ride on a new CMF‑B platform, signaling a broader platform strategy while preserving the compact proportions that have defined the Duster since its inception. Industry chatter had previously suggested as many as six variants of the new Duster could be launched to meet different regional needs, underscoring Renault Group’s intention to tailor the lineup across markets. [Source: Automotive News Europe report confirming strategy and platform transition]
Renault Group has also commented on the broader market context, asserting that changes in the global economic and political climate could create favorable conditions for Dacia. In periods of rising inflation, the brand has observed increased interest from buyers considering options beyond traditional mainstream brands and segments, a trend that could buoy demand for affordable compact SUVs. According to the executive, European car prices are likely to rise as environmental and safety standards become more stringent, a trend that may further elevate the appeal of value-conscious utility vehicles such as the Duster.
Historically, Renault’s original strategy positioned the third‑generation Dacia Duster and the Lada Niva on a shared platform, with similar technical foundations. The backdrop of notable events has cast some doubt on the future of Lada models on the French CMF‑B platform, yet development work on new products continues. This ongoing effort reflects a broader collaboration within the Renault‑Nissan‑Mitsubishi Alliance to adapt core platforms for diverse markets while maintaining brand identity and affordable pricing. [Contextual note: strategic platform alignment remains under review as the market evolves]
Photo: Zuma/TASS