What's the news?
One of the most outright affordable cars around, the Dacia Duster, is finally getting its mid-life update this month. We say finally, as the updated Duster has already been on sale in Europe for quite some time, but at last, it's hitting these shores.
The big news is that (gasp!) it's becoming more expensive. The better news is that (phew) the price rise is only €300.
You'll spot the updated Duster from its new grille and headlamps, and there's a new optional paint finish - Altai Green metallic.
Inside, there's higher quality plastic on the dash, some new chrome trim and a DAB radio as standard, as well as revised seat trim.
There's also a new top-spec version called Prestige, which will sit above the existing Signature trim. It includes 16-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, MediaNav Evolution multimedia system and rear parking camera, which includes parking sensors. Through the seven-inch multi-media touch-screen users have access to navigation, infotainment and hands-free telephone services; can stream music via Bluetooth or a USB or AUX connection, and can connect to social networks via a smartphone. While the cheapest Duster is still less than €17k (€16,690 to be precise) the high-spec Prestige is just under €20k at €19,890. Adding four-wheel drive as an option pushes the Prestige to just over €20k, at €21,890.
As an option, you can also have part-leather upholstery, which Dacia helpfully adds is wipe-clean...
UK Dusters will get the option of a 125hp 1.2 turbo petrol engine with 138g/km Co2 emissions, but sadly that's not being offered in Ireland as yet, although we will get the option of an EDC automatic dual-clutch gearbox for our all-diesel lineup later in the year.
Patrick Magee, Country Operations Manager, Dacia Ireland said that: "it's a great testament to the Dacia brand that in four short years, almost 11,000 Irish motorists have chosen to drive one of our shockingly affordable cars. Duster has been a great seller since day one and its popularity is still on the increase, and selling well ahead of other well established car brands. New Duster Phase 2 gives even more bang for your buck, and with the new Prestige higher trim level, Duster continues to give buyers the chance to own a more distinctive, car while remaining faithful to Dacia's exceptional 'shockingly affordable' value-for-money ethos."