Should i buy a dacia duster

There are other reasons for the design not changing much. It re-uses the former car's platform. That itself was a derivative of a Clio several generations old, which is one significant way of making it so cheap. Renault was one of the first companies to aim at five-star NCAP back then, so this platform is surprisingly safe, albeit a three-star NCAP rating pegs it behind almost all of its rivals now.

You pays your money, etc. How very Proustian. But it looks modern. Compared with the first-gen Duster we find an all-new dash, all-new seats, a better infotainment system, and more. It's also quieter than before, thanks to thicker glass, more sound deadening and stiffer sheetmetal in the engine bay. Even the 4x2 Duster retains good underbody clearance so if the surface isn't too greasy and the tyres are well-treaded it'll tackle fairly rugged scenery.

And it's got more space than say a Renegade or Vitara, the closest off-roadable rivals. The several petrol options are all 2WD only. Albeit one without paddles on the wheel here. It's touch and go whether a dealer will be able to cure it. All versions have a history of catalytic converter failure.

Watch for the engine overheating in slow traffic. Reliability It's a mixed picture with niggly faults dominating, so check everything works and put it through its paces on an extended test drive.

Body Early models suffered premature rusting of the doors, bonnet and boot hinges. These should have been repaired under warranty. Staying with early model, check for damp footwells caused by poor bulkhead or door sealing. Interior Expect the usual creaks and buzzes but beware anything too vocal. The doors have a reputation for rattles that are hard to eradicate, as does the steering wheel airbag. Check the head restraints for defects in manufacturing and that all seats are securely fixed.

Brakes A clunk from the front as you go from forward to reverse is probably the front brake pads unseating themselves. Some early Indian-built Dusters developed rusty sills, rattling doors and water leaks in the footwells.

Whichever new car you decide to buy, make sure you find it for the lowest price by searching our free What Car? New Car Buying service. It's got some compelling Dacia Duster deals. What Car? Share review. Introduction What Car? At a glance. New car deals. Not for you. Does the idea of pulling up in the car park at football practice in a budget motor leave you with sweaty palms? Are you someone who wants that elevated 4x4 driving position, but really only needs a family runabout?

In that case, the Duster may just be for you. For more information, visit: dacia.