Der Neue Dacia Duster Hybrid 140: Warum er uns nicht überzeugt, trotz vielversprechender Ansätze

Reasons We Wouldn't Purchase the Dacia Duster Hybrid 140

However, there are arguments that support the partially electric model…

In late November 2023, Dacia unveiled the third generation of the Duster. It's built on a fresh platform, boasts an attractive new design, and comes packed with significantly more technology. Impressively, the model hasn't seen a significant increase in price, leaving consumers once again facing a tough decision. Which powertrain to choose? Alongside the mild-hybrid petrol engines and Dacia's traditional LPG option, there's now a full hybrid variant available. But is it the right choice?

To determine the capabilities of a new vehicle, we took advantage of a national driving event to take the Dacia Duster Hybrid 140 for an initial test drive. However, despite a brief journey, the experience was quite underwhelming. Even with compelling reasons to opt for the hybrid version of the Duster, it's unlikely we'd consider purchasing it. So what were the dealbreakers? Stay tuned for the details.

Photo Gallery: Testing the Dacia Duster Hybrid (2024)

It's certainly not due to its appearance, spaciousness, or features, as this B-segment SUV impresses in every aspect. Skeptical? We suggest checking out the detailed reviews of the Duster TCe 130 4×2 with front-wheel drive or the TCe 130 4×4 with all-wheel drive.

The issue with the Duster Hybrid 140 lies in the peculiarities inherent to its powertrain system. Generally speaking, full-hybrid engines are beneficial. They allow for energy that would typically be lost during braking to be captured and stored in additional batteries without the need for a separate charging plan. When necessary, an electric motor can draw from this power to aid the combustion engine, thereby conserving fuel.

The Duster's complete hybrid configuration features a 94 horsepower 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine, paired with a 49 horsepower electric motor, and incorporates a so-called Multi-Mode automatic transmission. The combined output of 140 horsepower is delivered solely to the front wheels. So far, so good.

The critical issue, however, is the pre-programmed coordination of all the drive components. This is precisely where the otherwise impressive Dacia SUV falls short. There is a noticeable jerk when switching between combustion and electric modes, the gasoline engine frequently remains at uncomfortably high RPMs, and the decision on when and with which mode to drive seems quite random. It's not a particularly pleasant experience.

Another issue that arises is the significant impact on weight due to the additional technology. The Duster has traditionally been known for its agility, a characteristic that seems to be lacking in the hybrid version. It's true that the 4×4 model is slightly heavier, and this extra weight somehow gives it a more substantial, solid, authoritative, and comfortable feel, particularly since the suspension handles the 1.5 tons of curb weight well. However, the mix of an automatic transmission, front-wheel drive, and 140 horsepower doesn't deliver a zippy experience. It takes over 10 seconds to reach 100 km/h and has a top speed of 160 km/h, which is somewhat underwhelming.

Is it possible to at least save a considerable amount of fuel and thereby offset the higher cost compared to the alternative 4×2 model that features a 1.2-liter MHEV three-cylinder petrol engine with just 9 HP less (yet with superior driving performance)? Theoretically, this could happen according to the specifications.

According to the WLTP cycle, the mild hybrid consumes 5.5 liters per 100 kilometers, while the full hybrid is expected to be more efficient, using just 5.0 liters per 100 kilometers. This efficiency could result in annual savings on vehicle tax due to lower CO2 emissions. However, it will take a significant amount of time and mileage to offset the additional cost of 3,700 euros.

Increased Dacia, enhanced Duster:

What would be our ideal scenario? Pairing the 131 horsepower R3-MHEV gasoline engine with an automatic transmission. Possibly with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox, similar to what was once found in models like the Renault Clio or Renault Captur, both of which are built on the CMF-B platform.

However, the architecture there carries the additional designation "HS" (high specification) instead of "LS" (low specification), and the engine was a four-cylinder. So, should they tweak the software and improve the full hybrid? We would be pleased, as there's really no other objection to a partially electrified Duster.

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