Dacia Duster, 2011

 

 

 

•  Dacia Duster, 2011

The Dacia Duster project was born out of the simple premise that a real need existed in the world for an affordable, comfortable and rugged 4x4, a class which is currently not well served. Aware of this gap, the Renault group decided to develop an all-terrain vehicle aimed initially at emerging markets. The needs of European customers were also taken into account from the project outset.

In emerging markets (Russia, Brazil, etc.), the middle classes aspire to owning a modern car that reflects their social status. At the same time, they want a strong car that is reliable, versatile and capable of standing up to climatic demands and conditions that can be both tough and varied (long distances, difficult terrain, use in large built-up areas). The current offer is largely dominated by imported SUVs, which are often priced beyond the means of these middle classes.

In Europe, Dacia's success has highlighted the demand for modern, reliable and affordable cars. Although the current range of 4x4s and SUVs is quite extensive, it neglects the call for a functional, affordable all-terrain vehicle, favouring instead SUVs that are expensive and often ill-suited to the needs of off-road driving.

Indisputable 4x4 looks
At first glance, Dacia Duster is clearly a 4x4. Its front end exudes a sense of ruggedness, with its imposing chrome grille and sump guard also pointing to its clear 4x4 credentials. Seen in profile, its high ground clearance, wide wheel arches and body protection are an open invitation to take on even the toughest surfaces.

Today's all-terrain vehicles are often synonymous with bulk, a preconception which Dacia Duster sweeps aside. Being 4.31 metres long and 1.82 metres wide, Dacia Duster is very compact, making it as at home in built-up areas as it is when taken off the beaten track. Though it clearly demonstrates that it belongs to the world of all-terrain motoring, Dacia Duster boasts attractive, yet not ostentatious lines.

Dacia Duster was designed to tackle all types of roads and tracks, all over the world. In order to meet these varied needs, it available in all markets in both 4x2 form (for customers looking for good ground clearance and a high driving position, without the need for four-wheel drive) and with 4x4 transmission for off-road driving.

Dacia Duster's strengthened undercarriage is suitable for dirt roads and all-terrain use thanks to its high ground clearance (more than 200mm) and impressive clearance angles (approach angle: 30 degrees; departure angle: more than 35 degrees).

Dacia Duster is easy to drive and not only aimed at all-terrain drivers. Its combination of its low unladen weight (1,180kg in 4x2 - 1,280kg in 4x41) and compact proportions, ensure particularly agile handling. In the 4x4 version, thanks to the unique and intuitive control (sourced from Nissan) located at the foot of the centre console, Dacia Duster drivers can easily adapt the vehicle's transmission configuration to meet their needs of the moment. This control allows one of three modes to be selected:

When the AUTO mode is selected, the front/rear torque split is calculated automatically as a function of available grip. This system is aimed at providing optimal traction, however much grip is available, and gives Dacia Duster genuine 4x4 ability. In normal conditions, the torque is transmitted through the front wheels only. If traction is lost, or when grip is at a premium, some of the torque is transferred to the rear axle. In extreme conditions, the torque is split equally front and rear. This split is performed by an electromagnetic torque converter supplied by Nissan.

In LOCK mode, the driver electronically locks it into 4x4 mode, whereby 50 per cent of torque is consistently fed through the rear axle. The mode is recommended in low grip conditions (snow, mud, dirt, sand) at low speeds.
In 4x2 mode, the transmission is locked into two-wheel drive. The mode is suited to driving on good roads and reduces fuel consumption.

A DACIA 4x4 WHICH DELIVERS ALL THE STRENGTHS EXPECTED OF THE BRAND
Dacia Duster, the sixth vehicle in the Dacia range, remains true to the brand's philosophy by offering unbeatable cabin space for its price, plus low running costs thanks to its thrifty fuel consumption, as well as a high level of safety and reliability whatever the conditions.

Unbeatable cabin space for its price
Although Dacia Duster's price is comparable with that of a city car, its exterior and interior dimensions are more akin to those of a compact car from the segment above. It comfortably seats up to five adults, with both front and rear occupants enjoying the same amount of space as passengers in its sister Logan model.
Dacia Duster's boot capacity is unbeatable, too, with a volume of up to 475dm3 ISO. With the rear benchseat folded and tipped forward, its impressive carrying ability can even exceed 1,600dm3 ISO.

Reliable engines with good fuel economy and low CO2 emissions
Both the 4x2 and 4x4 versions of Dacia Duster  available with either a 1.6 16V 110hp petrol engine, or 85hp or 105hp dCi diesel power. All three powerplants have already demonstrated their efficiency under the bonnet of a number of Renault group models.

These engines are perfectly suited to the criteria of cost, strength and ease of maintenance that are a hallmark of the Dacia range. Combined with Duster's low weight, they ensure that Dacia's newcomer returns low fuel consumption and boasts impressive ecological credentials, with the dCi diesel versions emitting less than 140g of CO2/km in 4x2 form (qualifying Duster for the Dacia eco² signature) and less than 150g of CO2/km in the case of the 4x4 versions.

Safety: an absolute priority
Dacia Duster benefits from Renault's acclaimed expertise in the area of safety. The news 4x4 features Bosch 8.1 ABS, as well as EBV electronic brakeforce distribution and emergency brake assist. On the passive safety front, Dacia Duster comes as standard with two front airbags (depending on market) and three-point seat belts with load limiters for the front seats. Depending on version, two lateral head/thorax airbags are fitted in addition to the driver and passenger front airbags to provide additional protection in the case of side impact. Pyrotechnic pretensioners for the front seats (depending on version) complete Dacia Duster's retention system. In addition to holding the thorax firmly in place, they limit forward body movement in the case of a frontal impact by tightening the belt around the thorax and the lap.

Reliability and strength: Dacia fundamentals
Like all the vehicles based on the B0/Logan platform, Dacia Duster has been engineered to deliver the hallmark strength and reliability motorists have come to expect of the brand.

Particular attention has been paid to anti-corrosion protection thanks to several precautions:
    * wax-injected underbody and opening panel hollow sections,
    * mastic sealing of exterior joints,
    * additional wax treatment of underbody mechanical components,
    * stone-chip protection for underbody, sills and wheel arches.

Similar care has been paid to the electrics and electronics, with an installation already seen on several Renault models.
To back up its high build quality, Dacia Duster comes with a three-year or 100,000km warranty in the majority of its European markets.

A TRULY INTERNATIONAL CALLING
Dacia Duster is a truly international vehicle, both in terms of its markets and its production. It gradually become available across the world, following the example of Logan and Sandero.

Dacia Duster to be released in the brand's main markets from Spring 2010
Dacia Duster launched next Spring in Europe, Turkey and the Maghreb region (Algeria, Morocco). It round off the Dacia model line-up, which is expanding in the majority of these markets. In addition to the three cars (Logan, Logan MCV and Sandero), Dacia has staked its claim, too, in the LCV sector with Logan van and Logan pick-up.

From June 2010, Duster  available in Ukraine, the Middle East (Israel, Jordan, Syria, Egypt and Lebanon) and in some African countries badged as a Renault.

The Pitesti factory supply all these markets with both Dacia- and Renault- badged versions. The Romanian plant has an annual production capacity of 350,000 vehicles and will continue to produce the brand's other models.

Renault Duster in Russia, Brazil and the Gulf States in 2011

Dacia Duster will expand into other parts of the world in 2011. It  distributed in the Gulf States, supplied from Pitesti, and built alongside Logan, Sandero and Sandero Stepway in Curitiba, Brazil, for distribution in Brazil, Argentina, Mexico and Chile. At a later date, Duster go on to be manufactured at the Avtoframos plant in Moscow, Russia.

Dacia Duster Trophee Andros, 2010

 

 

Dacia Duster Trophee Andros, 2010

Dacia has chosen to base its challenge in the 2009/2010 Trophée Andros ice-racing season on the so-called 'Silhouette' category. All the circuits visited by the Trophée Andros put reliability to the ultimate test, and this will give Dacia a chance to showcase the fact that robustness forms an integral part of the brand's DNA. The discipline also places a cap on excessively complex and costly technical solutions, while the chassis, gearbox and tyres, for example, are all carefully governed by the regulations, forcing teams to explore simple, ingenious solutions, an approach which totally fits the Dacia spirit.

Dacia's newcomer will get its first taste of ice racing in the hands of Alain Prost, with the brand seeking to spring a surprise by using the campaign to premiere Dacia Duster, the lines of which preview the 4x4 model that is due to go on sale in 2010. Dacia Duster's high body line and prominent wheel arches are clear pointers to its 4x4 credentials, while the bodywork of the competition version is perfectly suited to the specific demands of the Trophée Andros. The extensive front glazed surface area and the positioning of the windscreen pillars ensure outstanding forward and lateral visibility.

The Dacia brand has forged a reputation for challenging established thinking in the automotive world, delivering all the essentials… at just the right price.

The Trophée Andros stands out as one of motor sport's most exacting disciplines. In ice racing, the track conditions can change very quickly as a result of prevailing weather conditions, and driving calls for precision, rigour and race-craft, three qualities which all come naturally to a champion of Alain Prost's calibre. Speaking about his latest challenge, Alain Prost said, "I am delighted to be driving the Dacia Duster. It is a brand new vehicle, and I am proud to be able to play a part in its promotion to the unusual backdrop of the Trophée Andros. Thanks to the work put in by Renault Sport Technologies, I have every confidence in Dacia Duster's potential and reliability, which together point to an extremely exciting season."

DACIA DUSTER PREPARED BY RENAULT SPORT TECHNOLOGIES
Over and above driver talent, the cars that contest the Trophée Andros undergo specific preparation.

The competition version of Dacia Duster has benefited extensively from the motorsport expertise of Renault Sport Technologies. Its glass-fibre body conceals a tubular chassis which houses a three-litre, 24-valve V6 engine from the Renault-Nissan Alliance range. This powerplant has been carefully tuned in order to optimise its performance potential at the high altitudes at which the races will be held. It delivers peak power of 350hp at 7,500rpm and maximum torque of 360Nm at 5,500rpm. The six-speed sequential gearbox ensures fast, precise gearshifts, even when drifting through corners at full speed. The mid-engined layout offers perfect weight distribution, whilst the low centre of gravity ensures enhanced control.

The double wishbone suspension and long-travel dampers have been specifically engineered to allow Dacia Duster to take in its stride the different conditions it will encounter during the Trophée Andros campaign. The competition version of Dacia Duster is equipped with limited slip differentials which are indispensable for the extreme conditions. This feature, which is also seen on other Renault Sport Technologies-developed competition and road cars, ensures efficient traction irrespective of the road surface, driving style or type of corner. The competition version of Dacia Duster also incorporates a four-wheel steering system for complete cornering control. This mechanical system links the front and rear wheels, and can be rapidly adjusted to meet the demands of each circuit.

DACIA DUSTER COMPETITION CAR

TECHNICAL DATA

    * CHASSIS
          o Tubular steel chassis
          o Double wishbone suspension, front and rear
    * ENGINE
          o Renault-Nissan Alliance VQ 30
          o Position: mid-engined
          o Six cylinders (V6)
          o Number of valves: 24
          o Cubic capacity: 2,987cc
          o Bore x stroke: 93mm x 73.3mm
          o Maximum power: 350hp at 7,500rpm
          o Maximum torque: 360Nm at 5,500rpm
    * TRANSMISSION
          o Six-speed SADEV sequential gearbox
    * BRAKES
          o Front: 260mm-diameter ventilated steel discs
          o Rear: 265mm-diameter steel discs
    * WHEELS
          o 5.5" x 16" (magnesium)
          o Tyres: Continental Racing Contact 3
    * DIMENSIONS / WEIGHT
          o Length: 4,001mm
          o Width: 1,900mm
          o Front/rear track: 1,690mm
          o Wheelbase: 2,500mm
          o Weight: 950kg
          o Fuel tank capacity: 25 litres

Dacia Sandero, 2009

Dacia Sandero, 2009

Dacia Sandero stands out as a modern hatchback with appealing looks that convey both dynamism and robustness. The front features modern, expressive headlamps and a grille and bumper that blend harmoniously with the bodywork. Its lateral lines form an "upturned wave" and underpin the impression of solidity, thanks notably to the broad side protective strips (according to version). The rear styling reinforces the sense of a generously proportioned, spacious and well-built vehicle. The same resolve to appeal to customers and showcase its quality continues inside the car. The new dashboard has been thought through to be both modern and functional, while there is also the opportunity to combine different colours and surface finishes in several areas (according to version). The design of the door panels also contributes to the cabin's modern feel thanks to the smart handles and decorative trim strips (according to version). To mark the upgrade in range, Dacia Sandero with three dashboard trims and coordinated upholsteries. Particular attention was paid to produce an uncluttered, practical driving environment, with easy-toread instruments and controls which fall readily to hand. Efficiency and travelling comfort Dacia Sandero is built on the same B0 platform as Logan which features MacPherson-type front suspension with wishbone. Certain versions also come with a front anti-roll bar which ensures excellent roadholding when cornering. Dacia Sandero's rear suspension is also derived from the B0 platform and comprises a programmeddeflection torsion beam with coil springs and vertically-mounted, extended-travel dampers. The suspension package has been specially engineered for Dacia Sandero, including lower arm joints and a rear end which have been designed to deliver precise handling and good road holding along sharply twisting roads. Like the Dacia range's other models, Sandero boasts high ground clearance (155mm) which means it is able take all types of road in its stride, both in and out of town, a factor that contributes further to its versatility. The new car also benefits from underbody protection which allows it to tackle unsealed surfaces with ease. A comprehensive range of engines Dacia Sandero is available with a choice of two petrol engines (1.4l 75hp and 1.6l 90hp) and two diesel engines (1.5 dCi 70hp and 1.5 dCi 85hp) which have already proven their worth on numerous other vehicles in the Renault family and which have actively contributed to the success of the Dacia range. The 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines are a perfect match for the cost, robustness and ease of maintenance values championed by the Dacia brand, and both are renowned for the availability of high torque at low engine speeds, as well as across a broad rev-band. The benchmark 1.5 dCi is acclaimed as one of the world's most efficient diesel engines. Its advanced technology includes second-generation common rail direct injection which delivers high performance and very low fuel consumption. The 1.5 dCi engine is available in 70hp form and also a punchier 85hp version which was launched in September 2007 on Dacia Logan and Dacia Logan MCV. Low CO2 emissions of 120g ensure an attractive ecological footprint for the 1.5 dCi engines of Dacia Sandero. Cabin space and carrying capacity worthy of the segment above Though Dacia Sandero's price positions it in the small car area of the market, its generous interior and exterior dimensions are in fact more in keeping with those of a vehicle from the next compact category up. Its unrivalled cabin space/price ratio has been made possible thanks to its length (4.02m), width (1.75m) and wheelbase (2.59m). The rear bench seat comfortably seats up to three adult passengers who benefit from 878mm of headroom, 145mm of kneeroom and 1,425mm of elbowroom, while a child seat can be fitted to all three seats. In addition to the rear's roomy dimensions, access to the rear seats is made even easier due to the fact that the rear doors open to an angle of up to 67°. The boot capacity of 320 litres is also unbeatable for the vehicle's price and compact dimensions, while its practical, modular layout is enhanced by the folding rear bench seat which offers a 60/40 split according to version. With the bench seat folded, the total carrying capacity extends to 1,200 litres, ensuring that Dacia Sandero stands out as a compact yet extremely spacious hatchback capable of comfortably carrying up to five adults. Safety: an inescapable consideration When it comes to Dacia Sandero's safety credentials, the newcomer benefits from the acclaimed expertise of the Renault Group in this field. On the active safety front, particular attention has been paid to Dacia Sandero's braking system which offers a degree of comfort, bite and progressive stopping power that is perfectly in keeping with the level expected of a Bsegment car in Europe. Dacia Sandero can also be equipped with latest-generation Bosch 8.1 ABS which incorporates EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) and, for the first time in the Dacia range, EBA (Emergency Brake Assist). Dacia Sandero is equipped with numerous passive safety features too, including the use of materials such as high elastic limit (HEL) steel which ensures enhanced cabin resistance by minimising deformation, notably in the case of head-on impacts. The combination of the magnesium steering wheel frame and retractable steering column contributes to the dissipation of the kinetic energy produced in an impact, while the honeycomb structure of the polypropylene dashboard reduces the risk of knee injury. In addition to the materials it uses, the curved design of the lower part of the cowling matches the shape of the tibias with a view to spreading out the force of an impact should the tibias come into contact with the dash. Last but not least, legs and ankles are further protected by underfoot padding on both the passenger and driver sides. Dacia Sandero is equipped with three-point seatbelts. The front seatbelts incorporate calibrated load limiters for enhanced protection of the thorax. Depending on version, these three-point seatbelts are height-adjustable to optimise body restraint in case of impact. The retention system can also be upgraded to include pyrotechnic pretensioners for the front seatbelts. Dacia Sandero also benefits from ISOFIX child seat anchorage for the outer rear seats.

Dacia Logan MCV, 2009

Dacia Logan MCV, 2009

New version of the Dacia Logan MCV, the best-selling station wagon in France, was launched following the Dacia Sandero and new Dacia Logan. With fresh body styling adopting the new visual identity of the brand, an upgraded Lauréate model and the arrival of a Prestige version, new Dacia Logan MCV is an integral part of the renewal of Dacia, a generous and clever brand. New Dacia Logan MCV obviously retains its successful formula of unbeatable cabin room for the price, impressive modular design and versatility in use, along with recognized reliability found in the previous generation. New Dacia Logan MCV was launched in France on October 3, 2008, naturally with the threeyear 100,000 km warranty. The entry-level price is as attractive as ever at just €8,900 in France. New Dacia Logan MCV is produced at Dacia's ISO 14001-certified Pitesti plant in Romania. The new model is 95% recoverable and contains 5% recycled plastic. The 70 hp dCi and 85 hp dCi models, emitting 140 g/km of CO2 and 137 g/km of CO2, respectively, both carry the Dacia eco2 signature.

Dacia Logan, 2009

Dacia Logan, 2009

Four years after the release of the first Logan, Dacia introduces 'New Logan'. The latest version of this celebrated three-volume saloon builds on the same strengths that forged the success of its predecessor, including unbeatable value for money in terms of performance and equipment, plus outstanding cabin space and exceptional reliability. New Dacia Logan goes even further, however, and features a more contemporary design, as well as a more attractive and more comfortable interior which mirrors the renewal of Dacia as a generous, clever brand. New Dacia Logan introduced across the majority of Western European markets from July 2008. In most cases, its entry level price remains unchanged, making it a more appealing proposition than ever. More contemporary looks New Dacia Logan stands out as a modern saloon with more contemporary exterior lines which reflect its robust, quality build. The grille, which first appeared on Dacia Sandero, is bigger and features the brand's new logo, plus a chrome upper trim as standard (except entry level version). The new front bumper is flush with the bodywork for a more integrated, harmonious feel, while the headlights are bigger and the fog lamps come with elegant carbon colour surrounds (depending on version). The rear design of New Dacia Logan has been updated, too. The design of the new boot lid, which can be trimmed with a lower chrome strip, is more streamlined and its lines have been carried over to the revised rear lights. The rear bumper, too, is now flush with the bodywork and incorporates reflectors and a towing hook complete with concealing cap. An even more pleasing interior New Dacia Logan sets out to be even more appealing than ever. The new dashboard, which first appeared on Dacia Sandero, is modern and functional, while the design of the door panels also contributes to the cabin's modern feel thanks to their more practical pull handles and elegant trimming (depending on version). The upgrade in range has seen the introduction of two finishes for New Dacia Logan's dashboard, plus a choice of four upholsteries (depending on countries). Drivers will appreciate the practical controls, and special care has gone into ensuring that all dashboard information is easy to read. The driving environment itself has been made even more comfortable and driverfriendly thanks to a new driver's seat adjustment control (depending on version) and a height-adjustable steering column (depending on version). Rear visibility has been improved through the fitment of a comma-type central rear headrest and large format door mirrors. These have been carried over from Dacia Logan MCV and are standard equipment on New Dacia Logan. An exceptionally roomy interior New Dacia Logan's generous dimensions ensure outstanding cabin space which continues to be unmatched in the three-volume saloon category of the B-Entry segment. Indeed, its size is more akin to C-segment norms, since the newcomer's overall length has been increased to 4,290mm (up 40mm compared with the previous version Logan), while its width is 1,740mm. Cabin space is one of New Dacia Logan's most salient features and three tall passengers (more than 1.90m in height) can be accommodated comfortably in the rear thanks to rear headroom of 873mm. Rear shoulder room is a remarkable 1,428mm too, a figure more readily associated with larger saloons. Last but by no means least, the boot volume of 510 litres is unequalled by any of New Dacia Logan's rivals in its category and the boot layout itself permits loads of very different shapes and sizes to be carried with ease. The accent on safety New Dacia Logan features the same safety features and equipment that enabled the model to achieve a threestar Euro NCAP crash test rating. New Dacia Logan can be equipped with the latest generation Bosch 8.1 ABS complete with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and emergency brake assist (EBA), a new feature which debuted on Dacia Sandero. The latter detects when the driver brakes in an emergency situation and acts on the hydraulic circuit to increase the effectiveness of the ABS by applying maximum pressure the instant the driver hits the brakes. Front and rear tracks of New Dacia Logan have been widened 7mm either side, which reinforces the roadholding capabilities of the vehicle. On the passive safety front, New Dacia Logan features a new honeycomb structure for the dashboard which reduces the severity of impact to the knees. In addition to the materials it employs, the dashboard's very design takes safety into account thanks to the curves of its lower section which match the form of the tibia, enabling impact loads to be spread out evenly in case of contact. The driver and front passenger also benefit from further lower limb protection thanks to underfoot padding. All New Dacia Logan's seats are equipped with three-point seatbelts and headrests, while the new car is delivered as standard with two controlled-deflation airbags (depending on countries), driver and front passenger, the pressure of which diminishes following deployment in order to limit the load applied to occupants. A comprehensive range of proven powerplants New Dacia Logan comes with the same proven petrol engines and diesel engine that have contributed to the Dacia range's success. The 1.4 MPI 75hp, 1.6 MPI 90hp and 1.6 16V 105hp all comply with the criteria of cost, robustness and ease of maintenance that are a feature of the Dacia brand. They combine generous torque from low revs with thrifty fuel consumption: 7.0, 7.2 and 7.1 litres/100km respectively. The 1.5 dCi stands out as a benchmark in the diesel engine field thanks to the use of such advanced technologies as second-generation common-rail direct injection which delivers both high performance and extremely low fuel consumption. The 1.5 dCi is available in 70hp form and a punchier 85hp version, while CO2 emissions of 120g/km point to the 1.5 dCi 70hp and 1.5 dCi 85hp engines' ecological credentials.

Dacia Duster Concept

Dacia Duster Concept Dacia Duster Concept - Dacia's first concept crossover - is proud to be different. Seen from the driver's side, it is visibly a sporting coupé, yet passengers entering from the other side will see it as an MPV (Multi Purpose Vehicle) with a traditionally opening front door and rear-hinged rear door which suggest plush travelling refinement. Dacia Duster Concept's height of 1.49 metres, short front and rear overhangs (65cm and 80cm respectively), generous wheelbase (2.80m) and compact volumes (4.25m long, 1.64m wide) exude an overriding sense of robustness and sports appeal. The front end features a broad bumper with two horizontal air-intake slits that suggest power. The grille features evident Dacia styling cues and is flanked by headlamps which wrap over the front wings to form a tapering line of light that stretches rearward towards the doors. Viewed from the side, the clear-cut lines of the wheel arches and tall doors reinforce the impression that Dacia Duster Concept sits squarely on the road. The Anthracite Grey bodywork and extensive one-piece glazed sweep - made possible by the absence of a central pillar - highlights the styling of the sides which are unmistakably reminiscent of Dacia Duster Concept's graphic identity. At the rear, the engraved Dacia logo further emphasizes the concept car's robust, dependable credentials. Like Logan, Dacia Duster Concept is just 4.25 metres long, and its inherent agility ensures that it is perfectly at home in the urban jungle. Meanwhile, its 21-inch, five-spoke aluminium alloy wheels, exterior mirrors positioned on the window surround and trapezoidal aluminium exhaust tailpipes are telltale signs of its sporting pedigree. Special care has gone into Dacia Duster Concept's aerodynamic efficiency (Cd: 0.30) and the fluid lines of the body sides enable air to flow freely along the vehicle's flanks before being jettisoned through the rear lights. The aerodynamic, wing-like forms of the roof-mounted direction indicators also channel airflow towards the rear. The sum of all this work has naturally been beneficial to fuel consumption, and Dacia Duster Concept stands out as a particularly environmentally-respectful crossover. Despite its performance potential, the particulate filterequipped 1.5 dCi 105hp engine (77kW) emits just 139g of CO2/km, equivalent to fuel consumption of 5.3 litres/100km.

A CROSSOVER WITH DACIA HALLMARKS This futuristic crossover showcases the brand's core values - namely simplicity, robustness and authenticity - in a surprising form, yet Dacia's hallmark ingenuity and generosity are immediately apparent in the way designers have approached Dacia Duster Concept's cabin. The concept car's two-tone chocolate and blue interior exudes a sense of well-being and conviviality. The fully glazed roof floods the cabin with light, while the enveloping forms of the staggered slim-line front seats provide first class comfort and support. The driver's seat is incorporated in a structure which extends all the way from the sill to the centre console, forming a sculptural, one-piece ensemble that echoes the exterior's sporty appeal. The user-friendly dashboard features fluid, expressive lines while employing simple materials. The driver's side front airbag is housed in the lower part of the steeringwheel which has made it possible to position the screen centrally and free up appreciable stowage space on the dashboard. The latter's receding lines also provide record kneeroom of 280mm for the front passenger who benefits from an exceptionally comfortable seating position. The bellows-like form of the original two-tone dashboard incorporates a 20-litre glovebox, while the door inserts each include eight-litre stowage bins. Another bin has been cleverly concealed in the back of the rear right-hand seat. A simple push causes a box to slide forward from the boot which itself is in total keeping with the Dacia spirit, with the upright tailgate providing a carrying capacity of 470dm3 (VDA), a remarkable achievement for a vehicle of Dacia Duster Concept's compact overall dimensions. Dacia Duster Concept is an adaptable, modular concept car. The four-seat 'daily driver' layout can be swiftly converted into a leisure configuration in a matter of seconds. The passenger seat slides underneath the driver's seat on rails concealed in the floor to leave just one front seat and consequently free up a total carrying volume of two cubic metres. Thanks to a recess in the floor and a strap located under the dashboard, this space can be used to carry a trials mountain bike.

Dimensions

* Length: 4,250 mm

* Width: 1,640 mm

* Height: 1,495 mm

* Overall width, doors open: 4,285 mm

* Wheelbase: 2,804 mm

* Front track: 1,637 mm

* Rear track: 1,640 mm

* Unladen weight: 1,300 kg

* Boot volume: 470 dm3 (VDA)

Technical data * Engine type: dCi 105

* Maximum power: 105 hp (77 kW)

* Maximum torque: 240 Nm at 2,000rpm

* 0-100 km/h: 9.6 s

* CO2 emissions: 139g/km

* Combined cycle fuel consumption: equivalent to 5.3 litres/100km

* Transmission: Manual six-speed gearbox

* Tyres: 245/35 ZR21

* Wheels: 21-inch diameter wheels