The European automotive market receives a unique novelty with the introduction of a pickup truck version of the new Dacia Duster. Desenvolvido by the renowned Romanian company Romturingia, specialized in bodies, the model stands out for being the first to combine a hybrid engine system with 4×4 traction, meeting a growing demand for light commercial vehicles that are both efficient and capable of tackling challenging terrains.
This initiative is not a series production model of the Dacia, but rather a specialized conversion that reinforces the long partnership between the manufacturer and the Romturingia. The transformer is known for its high-quality adaptations, converting line vehicles into solutions for specific market niches, such as ambulances, service vehicles and, as in this case, compact pickup trucks.
The arrival of this variant sparks interest in the future of the brand’s commercial vehicles, especially when compared to other Grupo Renault projects, such as the Oroch, sold in the América of the Sul, and the Niagara concept, which anticipates the conglomerate’s next global steps in the segment. The European Duster pickup truck targets an audience that seeks the practicality of a truck bed without giving up the technology and efficiency of new powertrains.
Conversion details and exterior design
The transformation process carried out by the Romturingia is carried out with precision, fully preserving the front and cabin of the new Duster. The SUV’s visual identity, including the “Y”-shaped LED headlights, the new grille with the Dacia logo and the robust bumper, remains intact. The main structural change occurs from the B column, located behind the front doors, where the roof and rear section of the vehicle are removed to make way for a functional and well-integrated cargo bed.
The conversion finish seeks to integrate the bucket harmoniously with the rest of the body, using high-resistance panels and a design that complements the vehicle’s original lines. The company pays special attention to reinforcing the chassis to ensure that torsional rigidity is not compromised, ensuring that the pickup maintains the durability and safety expected of an Duster, even in its new configuration. The result is a cohesive look that looks like it came straight off the assembly line.
Load capacity and bucket dimensions
Designed as a light vehicle for work and leisure, the Duster pickup offers a bed with practical dimensions for everyday use. The cargo compartment is approximately 1.05 meters long by 1 meter wide, providing enough space to transport equipment, tools or luggage for an adventure trip. The model’s payload capacity is 430 kilograms, an adequate number to meet the needs of small business owners, rural producers or outdoor enthusiasts. The design includes lashing points to securely secure the load, as well as a protective coating that prevents damage to the bucket surface when transporting heavier or bulkier objects. Apesar of its compact dimensions, the solution presented by the Romturingia balances the functionality of a pickup truck with the agility and comfort of an SUV, making it an interesting option in a segment with few direct alternatives in the European market.
Hybrid powertrain and performance options
One of the biggest attractions of the new Duster pickup truck is its range of electrified engines, inherited directly from the SUV.
The main option is the TCe 130 set, which combines a 1.2 three-cylinder turbo engine with a 48V micro-hybrid system. Este system generates 130 horsepower and is the only one that can be associated with 4×4 all-wheel drive, offering an excellent balance between performance, fuel economy and off-road capability.
The micro-hybrid system assists with acceleration and starting, which contributes to reducing consumption and pollutant emissions, making driving smoother and more efficient, especially on mixed routes.
Another available alternative is the E-Tech Hybrid 140 system, a complete hybrid package that combines a 1.6 gasoline engine with two electric motors and a 1.2 kWh battery. With 140 total horsepower, this version prioritizes maximum efficiency, being capable of running in 100% electric mode for up to 80% of the time on urban routes. However, this configuration is only available with front-wheel drive.
4×4 traction system and driving modes
For the TCe 130 version, the Duster pickup truck has the Terrain Control 4×4 traction system, which offers five selectable driving modes, adapting the vehicle to different terrain conditions. Modes adjust parameters such as throttle response and traction control to optimize performance.
Modes include Auto, which automatically distributes traction between the axles as needed, and Snow, ideal for slippery surfaces such as snow or ice. Há also has the Mud/Sand mode, designed for low-grip terrain such as mud and sand, and the Off-Road mode, which optimizes traction capacity on rough terrain.
Finally, the Eco mode prioritizes fuel economy, maintaining traction predominantly on the front axle, making it ideal for use on paved roads and in normal driving conditions.
Market context and the future with Niagara
The Duster pickup truck converted by the Romturingia occupies a specific niche in the European market as a low-volume, high-specialization solution. Ela is fundamentally different from the Renault Oroch, a project developed for the América Latina that uses the platform of the previous generation of the Duster and has four doors, focusing on a broader audience.
The Oroch competes directly with models like the Fiat Toro and Chevrolet Montana, a segment that the Grupo Renault plans to explore globally with a new product. Esse future model was anticipated by the Renault Niagara concept, which displays a bolder design and a modern platform, indicating the alliance’s plans to launch a larger and more competitive unibody pickup truck, with advanced hybrid technologies and the E-Tech 4×4 system.
The specialization and tradition of Romturingia
Romturingia has a long history of collaboration with Dacia, being responsible for several official conversions and special projects over the years. The company has gained a reputation for its ability to adapt the Romanian brand’s vehicles for professional use, demonstrating in-depth technical knowledge of the platform and model structure.
This experience guarantees that the transformation of the Duster into a pickup truck is carried out with a high quality standard, preserving the structural integrity and reliability of the vehicle. The solid partnership between the two companies allows solutions like this to quickly reach the market, meeting specific demands that would not be economically viable for large-scale production.
Preserved interior and onboard technology
As the cabin of the Duster SUV is kept intact in the conversion, the pickup inherits the entire technology and comfort package of the original model. Isso means that occupants have a modern and functional environment, equipped with the brand’s latest connectivity and safety features.
The digital instrument panel and touchscreen multimedia center offer an intuitive interface for controlling navigation, music and vehicle settings. Além In addition, the pickup can be equipped with various driver assistance systems, such as cruise control, parking sensors and a reversing camera, which facilitate maneuvers and increase safety in everyday life, combining the robustness of a utility vehicle with the sophistication of a modern passenger car.
