The Dacia Duster Bigster concept is striking and (almost) looks production ready
Based on the next generation Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance’s CMF-B platform, the Dacia Duster Bigster concept hints at an upcoming three-row SUV coming soon. Sadly, it’s for overseas’ markets only. It is 11-inches longer than the regular Dacia/Renault Duster, with several different drivetrains that are supposed to be available at launch.
Currently, in the UK, a base model Duster (4X2) starts at £10,000 – that’s about $13,600 as of January 2021 – which is very cheap. According to Dacia/Renault, the upcoming SUV will be “a larger, more capable vehicle at the cost buyers would expect from the segment below.” It certainly looks cool. With styling that looks a bit like the Bronco and Bronco Sport upfront, the profile is reminiscent of a Toyota Highlander. Neither of which is a bad thing. On top of that, the blistered fenders and stance look dirt-ready.
The newest Dacia Duster comes with a variety of different powertrains. Diesel, petrol and LPG/CNG are available. It would be our guess that the Under the bonnet, the 115 horsepower turbo diesel, and/or the 130bhp turbocharged 1.2-liter petrol engine will be available on the Dacia Duster Bigster first. Whether or not Dacia actually uses the name “Bigster” in their production vehicle remains to be seen. We do expect to see a six-speed dual-clutch auto, and (possibly) a six-speed manual transmission to make to production.
Will the Dacia Duster Bigster come to the USA?
No. At least, not as a “Dacia.” That Romanian automaker’s name is unknown to most in the U.S. Still, there is a possibility that the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi alliance could bring something like this to the United States. A few insiders say that the Dacia Duster Bigster concept could point to the way to something sold by Mitsubishi on our shores.
Keep in mind: it’s been 15 years since the Mitsubishi Montero left the U.S. market. While Mitsubishi does build a soft-road, three-row crossover sold here (Outlander), it lacks off-road cred.
Who knows? An inexpensive vehicle like this, especially one that looks this good, could make for a great addition to our market. Still, I wouldn’t hold my breath.
