Dacia, a brand belonging to the Renault group, presented a unique engineering solution for the competitive compact SUV market with the launch of the new Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4. The model stands out for being the first in its segment to integrate a 48-volt mild-hybrid engine system, a dual-fuel power supply (gasoline and Gás Liquefeito of Petróleo – LPG) and an all-wheel drive system that uses an electric motor on the rear axle.
This innovative configuration not only optimizes fuel consumption and reduces pollutant emissions, but also gives the vehicle unprecedented versatility. With both fuel tanks full, the SUV achieves a total range of up to 1,500 kilometers, a significant milestone that positions it as one of the most efficient and economical options in its category on the European market.
The mechanical package is managed by a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine that produces 140 horsepower, coupled to a six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The system is complemented by a 31 horsepower electric motor at the rear, ensuring agile response and on-demand traction on all types of terrain.
An innovative hybrid powertrain
At the heart of the new Dacia Duster is an advanced propulsion system designed to balance performance, economy and off-road capability. The 1.2 turbo gasoline engine, assisted by 48-volt mild-hybrid technology, allows a transparent transition between the use of gasoline and LPG, optimizing operating costs for the driver.
This flexibility is one of the model’s greatest assets, as it allows the driver to choose the most advantageous fuel at any time, whether due to price or availability, without any interruption in driving. Electronic system management ensures that performance is maintained regardless of the fuel in use.
The electric 4×4 traction system
The all-wheel drive system of the Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 operates completely electronically and instantly. In normal road conditions and at cruising speeds, the vehicle operates in front-wheel drive to maximize fuel efficiency, behaving like a conventional SUV.
However, a set of sensors constantly monitors tire grip. Upon detecting the slightest sign of slipping, the electric motor on the rear axle is activated within milliseconds, providing a smooth and imperceptible transition to 4×4 traction, ensuring stability and safety.
This technology not only ensures maximum safety on slippery surfaces, such as rain or snow, but also improves performance on rough terrain. The electric motor’s immediate response allows for more precise control in situations that require extra traction, such as steep climbs or muddy surfaces.
Unprecedented efficiency and autonomy
The approved consumption figures for the Dacia Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 confirm its focus on economy. Utilizando gasoline, the SUV records a consumption that varies between 5.5 and 5.6 liters per 100 kilometers. Quando fueled with LPG, consumption is between 7.1 and 7.2 liters per 100 km, a small difference justified by the lower energy density of the gas.
The combination of two tanks of 50 liters each, one for gasoline and the other for LPG, is what allows the extended range of up to 1,500 kilometers in the WLTP test cycle. Essa feature eliminates so-called “range anxiety”, allowing long trips without the need for frequent stops to refuel.
The transition between fuels is made using a button on the dashboard or automatically when one of the tanks runs out, without interrupting driving. Nos European markets where LPG has a more competitive price, its use can generate savings of up to 30% in operating costs.
The model’s CO2 emissions are also controlled, ranging between 116 and 126 g/km, making it a more environmentally friendly option within the all-wheel drive SUV segment.
Versatility with multiple driving modes
To adapt the vehicle’s behavior to different scenarios, the new Duster offers multiple driving modes that adjust the response of the propulsion and traction system. The Auto mode automatically manages the balance between efficiency and performance, making it ideal for daily use, while the Eco mode prioritizes fuel economy, optimizing the use of the hybrid system to maximize autonomy.
For specific situations, Neve and Lama/Sand modes adjust traction control to optimize grip on low-friction surfaces. The SUV also has the Lock function, which distributes torque equally between the axles for more serious off-road challenges, and the Hill Descent Control, which assists on steep descents, controlling the vehicle’s speed automatically.
Off-road capabilities enhanced by electrification
Despite the addition of electrical components and a second fuel tank, the Duster maintains its renowned off-road capabilities, one of the pillars of its popularity. Ground clearance remains generous, and entry and exit angles are preserved to facilitate overcoming obstacles on rough terrain. The presence of the electric motor on the rear axle, however, represents a significant advantage in off-road conditions. Ele provides instant torque, which is crucial for increasing traction on low-grip surfaces like mud, sand or gravel. Essa immediate response, which surpasses the performance of many traditional mechanical drive systems, allows much more precise control of the vehicle in challenging situations, making off-road driving safer and more confident. In urban environments, the system allows the SUV to operate in 100% electric mode up to 60% of the time at low speeds, using only the rear engine, which reduces consumption and noise.
Modernized and functional cabin
The cabin of the Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 has been modernized with more robust materials and a functional design. The highlight is the multimedia center with a touch screen, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which integrates connectivity and navigation in an intuitive way.
The instrument panel is now digital and displays crucial information about the hybrid system in real time, such as energy flow, battery charge level and the traction mode in use. Isso allows the driver to monitor and optimize the vehicle’s efficiency in a practical way.
Positioning in the European market
At Europa, the Dacia Duster Hybrid-G 150 4×4 starts at 28,500 euros in the entry-level version Expression. The most complete configurations, such as the Extreme and Journey, cost around 30 thousand euros, adding equipment such as a 360-degree camera, parking sensors and lane keeping assistant.
