The genesis of the Duster Project: A response to an unmet demand 08.12.2009: The Duster project was born out of the simple premise that a real need existed in the world for a comfortable, strong and affordable 4x4, a category of vehicle which is currently not well served. Aware of this gap, the Renault group

The Duster project was born out of the simple premise that a real need existed in the world for a comfortable, strong and affordable 4x4, a category of vehicle which is currently not well served. Aware of this gap, the Renault group decided to develop an all-terrain vehicle aimed initially at emerging markets. The needs of European customers were also taken into account from the very start of the project.

- In emerging markets (Russia, Brazil, etc.), the middle classes aspire to owning a modern car that reflects their social status. At the same time, they want a strong car that is reliable, versatile and capable of standing up to climatic demands and conditions that can be both tough and varied (long distances, rugged, difficult terrain, use in
built-up areas, often within large conurbations, etc.). The current offer is largely dominated by imported SUVs, which are often priced beyond the means of these middle classes.

- In Europe, Dacia's success has highlighted the demand for modern, reliable and affordable cars. Although the current range of 4x4s and SUVs is quite extensive, it neglects the call for a functional, affordable all-terrain vehicle, favouring instead showy SUVs that are expensive and often ill-suited to the needs of all-terrain motoring.



DACIA DUSTER, EVERYTHING A 4x4 SHOULD BE

Indisputable 4x4 looks…

At first glance, Dacia Duster is clearly a 4x4. Its front end exudes a sense of ruggedness, and the wide wheel arches, imposing chromed grille and sump guard all point to Dacia Duster 4x4 credentials. Seen from the side, its high ground clearance, clearly-defined wheel arches and body protection are an open invitation to take on even
the toughest roads and tracks.

Today's all-terrain vehicles are often synonymous with bulk, a preconception which Dacia Duster sweeps aside. Standing at a length of just 4.31 metres and a width of 1.82 metres, Dacia Duster is very compact, making it as at home in built-up areas as it is when taken off the beaten track. Although it clearly demonstrates that it belongs to the world of all-terrain motoring, Dacia Duster boasts attractive, yet unostentatious lines.

…with genuine go-anywhere ability

Dacia Duster was designed to tackle all types of roads and tracks, all over the world. In order to meet these varied needs, Dacia Duster will be available in all markets in both 4x2 form (for customers looking for high ground clearance, high driving position but who have no real need for a four-wheel drive daily driver) and with 4x4 transmission for off-road driving.

Dacia Duster's strengthened underside is suitable for dirt roads and all-terrain use thanks to its high ground clearance (more than 200mm) and big clearance angles (approach angle: 30 degrees; departure angle: more than 35 degrees).

Dacia Duster is easy to drive and not only aimed at all-terrain aficionados. The combination of its low unladen weight (1.180kg in 4X2 - 1,280kg in 4X41) and compact proportions ensure particularly agile handling. In the 4X4 version, thanks to the unique and intuitive control (sourced from Nissan) located in the cabin at the foot of the
central column, Dacia Duster drivers can easily adapt the vehicle's transmission configuration to meet their needs of the moment. This control allows one of three modes to be selected:

- When the AUTO mode is selected, the front/rear torque split is calculated automatically as a function of available grip. This system is aimed at providing optimal traction, however much grip is available, and gives Dacia Duster genuine 4x4 ability. In normal conditions, the torque is transmitted through the front wheels only. If traction is lost, or when grip is at a premium, some of the torque is transferred to the rear axle. In extreme conditions, the torque is split equally front and rear. This split is performed by an electromagnetic torque converter supplied by Nissan.

- In LOCK mode, the driver electronically locks it into 4x4 mode, whereby 50 per cent of torque is consistently fed through the rear axle. This mode is recommended in low grip conditions (snow, mud, dirt, sand) at low speeds.

- In 4x2 mode, the transmission is locked into two-wheel drive. This mode is suited to driving on good roads and reduces fuel consumption.



 Freddy Cholière, Axelle de Ladonchamps, photos Renault Dacia