What’s New With the Dacia Duster and Bigster Hybrid-g 150 4×4?
Dacia’s latest move is shaking up the SUV market, especially for drivers who want rugged capability without breaking the bank at the fuel pump. The Duster and its bigger sibling, the Bigster, now come in Hybrid-g 150 4×4 form—a blend of hybrid tech and bi-fuel flexibility that’s rare at this price point. So, what’s actually changed? In short: a new mild-hybrid 1.2-liter turbo engine, a rear-mounted electric motor, and the ability to run on both gasoline and LPG. The result? Pure magic for anyone who’s tired of choosing between power, efficiency, and all-wheel drive.
How Does the New Hybrid System Work?
Let’s break it down. Under the hood, you’ll find a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system. This setup delivers 138 hp and 230 Nm of torque from the engine alone. Add in the rear electric motor—good for 31 hp and 87 Nm—and you’re looking at a combined punch of 152 hp. That’s not just a number on paper; it translates to real-world oomph, especially when you need to overtake or tackle a muddy trail.
What’s clever here is the drivetrain. The six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission (a first for Dacia) comes with steering-wheel paddles, making gear changes feel snappy and responsive. The rear electric motor has its own two-speed gearbox and can decouple from the rear axle when you don’t need all-wheel drive, saving fuel. You get six drive modes—Auto, Eco, Snow, Mud/Sand, Lock, and Hill Descent Control—so you’re covered whether you’re commuting or heading off-road for the weekend.
How Far Can You Go on a Tank—and How Much Will You Save?
Range anxiety? Not here. With twin 50-liter tanks—one for gasoline, one for LPG—these SUVs can travel up to 1,500 kilometers (about 932 miles) on a full fill, according to WLTP standards. That’s enough to drive from Paris to Rome and still have fuel to spare. The real kicker is the cost savings. In France, LPG is currently priced at around €0.97 per liter (roughly $4.29 per gallon), and Dacia claims this hybrid setup can slash running costs by up to 30% compared to the outgoing gasoline-only models.
For city drivers, there’s another perk: the hybrid system allows for up to 60% electric-only driving in urban environments, thanks to a 0.84 kWh lithium-ion battery that recharges via regenerative braking. That means less noise, fewer emissions, and more money left in your pocket.
What About Comfort and Features—Is It Still a “Budget” SUV?
Dacia’s reputation for value is intact, but the new Duster and Bigster aren’t skimping on comfort. The Duster, for example, now offers new interior upholstery, lumbar adjustment for the driver’s seat in the Journey trim, and a fresh set of black alloy wheels on the Extreme trim. Small touches, but they add up—especially if you spend a lot of time behind the wheel.
When Will the Hybrid-g 150 4×4 Be Available, and What’s Next for the Duster Lineup?
If you’re in Europe, you can expect to place an order for the Hybrid-g 150 4×4 Duster or Bigster by the end of the year. Pricing details are still under wraps, but Dacia’s track record suggests it’ll be competitive.
Looking ahead, Dacia plans to refresh the entire Duster lineup by 2026. The new range will feature the 1.2-liter turbo engine across the board, with variants like the Eco-G 120, mild-hybrid 140, and hybrid 155 joining the party. The older 1.0-liter engine and less powerful options are being phased out, making room for a more modern, efficient, and punchy lineup.
Why Should You Care About LPG and Hybrid Tech in 2024?
Here’s the thing: LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) isn’t new, but it’s making a comeback as fuel prices and emissions regulations tighten. According to the European Alternative Fuels Observatory, LPG vehicles emit about 10% less CO2 than their gasoline counterparts and can be up to 50% cheaper to refuel in some markets. Combine that with hybrid tech, and you’ve got a recipe for lower emissions, lower costs, and fewer compromises.
Is the Dacia Duster Hybrid-g 150 4×4 Right for You?
If you want an SUV that’s practical, affordable, and genuinely innovative, the Duster and Bigster Hybrid-g 150 4×4 deserve a spot on your shortlist. They’re proof that you don’t need to spend a fortune to get advanced tech, real-world savings, and the freedom to explore—on or off the beaten path.
The big takeaway? Smarter powertrains like Dacia’s Hybrid-g 150 4×4 aren’t about perfection—they’re about making savvy adjustments that fit real lives. Try one change—like switching to LPG or exploring hybrid options—this week, and you’ll likely spot the difference by month’s end.