With a range of 1,500 km, the new Dacia Duster combines a hybrid engine, LPG and electric 4×4 traction

Dacia officially presented the new Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 version, redefining standards for compact SUVs in the European market. The Este model stands out as the only one to combine an all-wheel drive system with a 48-volt mild-hybrid engine and a dual-fuel power supply, using both gasoline and Gás Liquefeito of Petróleo (LPG).

Esta innovative configuration allows the vehicle to operate in electric mode under various driving conditions. With both tanks full, the new Duster offers an impressive total range of up to 1,500 kilometers, setting a new benchmark in efficiency and versatility in its segment.

The vehicle uses a 1.2 turbo three-cylinder engine that generates 140 horsepower, working in conjunction with a 31 horsepower rear electric motor. The transmission is a six-speed dual-clutch automatic, designed to ensure smooth gear changes and contribute to the low fuel consumption declared by the manufacturer.

Innovative propulsion system

The heart of the Dacia Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 is a complex and highly coordinated propulsion system designed to maximize both energy efficiency and off-road capability. The main engine is a 1.2 three-cylinder turbo with 140 horsepower, integrated with 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, which allows dual-fuel power supply with gasoline or LPG without the need for mechanical modifications. The 31 horsepower electric motor, positioned on the rear axle, not only provides additional power, but also acts as a generator during regenerative braking, recovering energy that would otherwise be lost. Esta electric unit has its own two-speed transmission, which optimizes performance at low speeds and allows full decoupling to reduce friction when 4×4 traction is not required. The 0.84 kWh lithium-ion battery automatically recharges while driving, eliminating the need for external chargers. Electronic management distributes torque intelligently, prioritizing electric mode on urban routes and activating four-wheel drive only when it detects loss of grip, resulting in a combined power of 154 horsepower and a maximum torque of 230 Nm from the thermal engine.

How hybrid 4×4 traction works

The all-wheel drive system of the Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 is activated electronically and instantly, thanks to the dedicated electric motor on the rear axle. Under normal road driving conditions and at high speeds, the vehicle operates in front-wheel drive to minimize fuel consumption. However, the system continuously monitors grip conditions and, at the first sign of slipping, engages the rear axle within milliseconds, providing an imperceptible transition for the driver and ensuring maximum safety.

In urban cycles, the system is capable of operating in all-electric mode for up to 60% of the time, using only the rear engine. Essa functionality not only drastically reduces pollutant emissions in urban areas, but also improves acoustic comfort at low speeds. The model offers specific driving modes that adjust the behavior of the propulsion and traction system, such as Auto, which automatically balances efficiency and performance; the Eco, which prioritizes fuel economy; the Neve, which optimizes traction on slippery surfaces; and the Lama/Areia, which adjusts traction control for loose terrain. Há also has the Lock function, which distributes torque equally between the axles, and Hill Descent Control for steep descents.

Efficient autonomy and consumption

The Dacia Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 records an approved average consumption of between 5.5 and 5.6 liters per 100 km when operating on gasoline. When using LPG, consumption increases slightly to the range of 7.1 to 7.2 liters per 100 km, due to the lower energy density of this fuel.

The combination of two tanks of 50 liters each, one for gasoline and the other for LPG, guarantees an impressive combined range that can reach 1,500 kilometers in the WLTP cycle. Switching between fuels can be done manually using a button on the dashboard or occurs automatically when one of the tanks runs out, without any interruption in driving.

Testes in real-use conditions demonstrate that it is possible to achieve consumption averages even better than the official ones, reaching 4.8 liters per 100 km on mixed gasoline routes. The use of LPG can reduce operating costs by up to 30% in markets where the fuel is more affordable. CO2 emissions range between 116 and 126 g/km, in compliance with strict Euro 6e-bis standards.

Improved off-road capability

Apesar of the complexity of the hybrid system, the Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 keeps intact the off-road characteristics that made the line famous. Ground clearance remains high, and entry and exit angles continue to facilitate use on rough terrain and trails.

The presence of the electric motor on the rear axle offers a significant advantage, providing instant torque to improve traction on low-grip surfaces such as mud or sand. Esta Immediate response allows for more precise control in challenging situations.

The system also allows complete decoupling of the rear axle to avoid energy losses due to friction when driving on asphalt. In tests carried out in desert terrain, the model demonstrated a remarkable ability to advance stably over sand and dunes.

Descent control (Hill Descent Control) operates precisely and adjustable, offering greater safety on steep slopes. The automatic transmission facilitates off-road maneuvers, especially when combined with the paddle shifters on the steering wheel for manual shifting, giving the driver more control.

Updated interior and equipment

The cabin of the Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 has received important updates, with robust finishes and materials designed to withstand intense use. The central panel is dominated by an infotainment screen compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which concentrates the main connectivity and navigation functions.

The digital instrument panel displays hybrid system-specific information, such as real-time energy flow, battery charge level and active traction mode, allowing the driver to monitor the efficiency of the package. The seats were designed to offer good support on long journeys, and interior space was preserved, as the LPG tanks are located under the trunk floor.

Prices on the European market

Prices for the Dacia Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 start at 28,500 euros for the entry-level Expression version in selected European markets. The most equipped configurations, such as the Extreme and Journey, increase the value to around 30 thousand euros, offering items such as a 360-degree camera, parking sensors and lane keeping assistant.

Exclusive competitive advantages

Nenhum outro fabricante no segmento de SUVs compactos oferece atualmente a combinação de motor mild-hybrid, alimentação bicombustível com GLP e tração 4×4 com motor elétrico traseiro. Essa exclusivity attracts consumers concerned about both operating costs and increasing emissions restrictions in European cities.

The battery self-charging system offers total practicality, eliminating the range anxiety typical of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The LPG supply infrastructure, already consolidated in many European countries, favors the adoption of the model. Além In addition, the inclusion of the dual-clutch automatic transmission significantly increases comfort, strengthening the image of Dacia as a brand that offers intelligent, robust and excellent cost-benefit solutions.