The European automotive market receives a robust and versatile addition with the arrival of a pickup truck version based on the latest generation of the Dacia Duster. Desenvolvido in an exclusive partnership with the renowned Romanian preparer Romturingia, the model combines the modern SUV platform with the functionality of a truck bed, meeting a specific demand for work and leisure vehicles with high off-road capacity.
This conversion is not a mass product from Dacia, but rather a special edition that highlights the flexibility of the Duster project. Romturingia, known for its adaptations to vehicles from the Renault group, applied its experience to create a pickup truck that maintains the visual identity of the SUV at the front, while offering a practical and well-integrated cargo solution at the rear. The hybrid engine and 4×4 traction system are the vehicle’s biggest differences.
The arrival of this specialized model signals the potential of Duster in different segments. Enquanto to Renault already has experience with pickup trucks in other markets, such as the Oroch to the América to the
A transformation focused on functionality
The conversion process carried out by Romturingia is meticulous, transforming the Duster SUV into a single-cab pickup truck. The main modification occurs in the B column, located behind the front doors, where the structure is redesigned to incorporate a bucket. The cargo compartment is built with highly durable composite materials, designed to withstand intense use in commercial or recreational activities, preserving the useful life of the set and ensuring resistance against impacts and corrosion.
With a focus on utility, the vehicle was designed to offer a payload capacity of approximately 430 kg. Embora is a modest value compared to larger pickup trucks, it is suitable for transporting equipment, tools and small loads, an ideal profile for self-employed professionals, service fleets in rural areas or outdoor enthusiasts who require more space than a conventional SUV can offer. The rear suspension has also been recalibrated to handle the additional weight and ensure safe and stable dynamic behavior, even with a full bed.
Design and dimensions of the new utility
Visually, the Duster pickup maintains the entire identity of the new generation of SUV at the front. The grille with the new Dacia logo, the LED headlights with a “Y” signature and the robust bumper are identical to those of the model that gave rise to it, guaranteeing a modern and recognizable look.
The big change is at the rear. The bucket has a functional design, with a lid that facilitates access and handling of objects. The dimensions of the cargo compartment are optimized for the size of the vehicle, measuring approximately 1.05 meters deep by 1 meter wide, offering considerable space for its category.
Exclusive to this version are the rear lights, positioned vertically on the sides of the bed lid, a common solution in pickup trucks to maximize the opening of the compartment. The overall finish seeks to harmoniously integrate the bucket with the rest of the body, avoiding the appearance of an improvised adaptation.
Electrified engine options
One of the main attractions of this version of the Duster pickup is the offer of electrified engines, in line with European market trends. The first option is the Mild-Hybrid system, which combines a 1.2 three-cylinder turbo engine with a 48-volt electrical system. Este set delivers 130 horsepower and is focused on optimizing fuel consumption and reducing emissions.
The Mild-Hybrid system assists the combustion engine during acceleration and allows it to be switched off during brief stops, such as at traffic lights, restarting smoothly and quickly. The transmission associated with this engine is a six-speed manual, which works in conjunction with the 4×4 traction system.
The second alternative is the Hybrid 140 set, a full-hybrid system that does not require external recharging. Ele uses a 1.6 naturally aspirated petrol engine, combined with two electric motors and an innovative clutchless multi-mode automatic gearbox. Combined power is 140 horsepower.
This configuration allows the vehicle to run in 100% electric mode in low-speed urban situations, resulting in notable fuel savings. Electronic management automatically switches between engines to ensure maximum efficiency in each usage condition, making it an attractive option for those looking for performance and sustainability.
4×4 traction system and off-road capability
The Duster pickup truck inherits the SUV’s excellent all-wheel drive system, one of its greatest assets and a key competitive differentiator. The 4×4 system is electronically managed and offers the driver several driving modes, selectable via a selector on the center console, adapting the vehicle’s behavior to different terrain conditions. Essa versatility reinforces the model’s appeal for use in difficult-to-access places, such as dirt roads, mud or snow, something essential for a vehicle with a utilitarian and adventurous purpose. Available modes adjust traction control and throttle response to optimize performance, including an “Auto” option that distributes traction on demand, an “Eco” mode that prioritizes front-wheel drive to save fuel, and specific settings for snow, mud and sand, plus an off-road mode that resembles locked 4×4 for more extreme situations.
Romturingia’s expertise in special conversions
Romturingia is no newcomer when it comes to modifying Dacia vehicles. The company has a long history of collaboration with the brand and the Grupo Renault, being responsible for a number of special conversions, including ambulances, emergency service vehicles and other commercial versions based on series production models.
This experience guarantees a high standard of quality and engineering in the transformation of the Duster pickup truck. The project is developed following the manufacturer’s specifications, ensuring that structural modifications do not compromise the safety and integrity of the vehicle, which undergoes rigorous testing before being made available on the market.
The scenario for the pickup truck in the European market
The compact pickup truck segment at Europa is a niche, dominated mainly by larger models of Asian and American origin. However, there is a demand for more agile and economical commercial vehicles, suitable for the streets and cities of the continent.
The Duster pickup truck from Romturingia fits perfectly into this space, offering a robust and economical alternative for small businesses, farmers or consumers looking for a more practical leisure vehicle than a traditional SUV. The hybrid engine is an important competitive differentiator in this market.
Future perspectives for Renault
Although this pickup truck is a limited series production by Romturingia, it serves as a barometer for public interest in a utility vehicle of this type. The Renault is closely observing this movement, especially while developing global projects, such as the one inspired by the Niagara concept, which anticipates a pickup truck with a bold design and hybrid technology, which could succeed the Oroch in markets such as the Brasil.
