Updated Dacia Duster debuts with new engine and trim level

Dacia has announced changes to the Duster for the 2016, including an updated petrol powerplant and a new top-spec Prestige trim level.

Adding to the existing (and rather elderly) 1.6-litre naturally aspirated unit available on base-spec cars, Dacia has introduced a 1.2-litre turbocharged engine which pushes out 123bhp. It joins the venerable 1.5 dCi diesel on Dusters in Laureate trim or above, and Dacia claims fuel economy and CO2 figures of 46.3mpg and 138g/km. That’s still a fairly hefty £130 yearly tax bill, though.

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Up front, the Dacia Duster has received a mild facelift with new, squarer, multi-part headlights. That’s about it for the outside of the car, but inside has had more of a makeover. All cars feature new upholstery and a new finish to the dashboard – dark carbon, with satin chrome on the centre console and steering wheel.

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Equipment hasn’t been missed out either. Ambiance trim and above now receives DAB digital radio as standard, while new optional alloy wheels and optional part-leather upholstery add to the look of the car. For the first time, parking sensors and a reversing camera are available, too – good news for those poor parkers out there.

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But if you want even more kit, Dacia has you covered with the new, top-spec ‘Prestige’ trim. It sits atop Laureate trim and adds 16-inch alloy wheels, a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, and reversing camera as standard kit.

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Prices for the new Duster range still start from under £10,000. A 1.6-litre petrol model in Access trim with two-wheel drive now starts from £9,495, with prices rising to £16,495 for a Prestige model with the 1.5 dCi and four-wheel drive. Orders books are open now and deliveries will start from July.

Does the new look and trim entice you to buy a Dacia Duster? Let us know in the comments below...