The commercial version of the Duster SUV – Duster Commercial
Dacia reckon their new Duster Commercial is rugged, robust and ready for business writes Suzanne Keane
What is it? Dacia’s Duster has been on Irish roads since early 2013 and the commercial version is based on the same design as the passenger car – minus the rear seats.
Who is it aimed at? The Duster is aimed at those seeking a good value commercial vehicle that won’t look out of place parked in their driveway. It also comes with a 3 year 100,000km warranty to eliminate maintenance worries.
Styling? Our test car was a Slate Grey 4×4 Duster which certainly looked good with the addition of roof bars, alloys and plenty of satin chrome detailing.
Standard equipment includes Radio CD, MP3, USB and Bluetooth, Foglights, Manual air conditioning, Leather steering wheel,
Under the Bonnet? The commercial Duster is powered by a 1.5 dCi 110bhp diesel engine and is available in both 2 and 4 wheel drive (Signature trim only).
What about inside? In the back there’s a tough plastic floor to take loads up to 1.4m long and it’s over a metre wide between the wheel arches. Tinted windows on the sides hide the lack of seats but the clear rear window will allow prying eyes to check out your cargo. 2 anchor points near the front of the load floor mean you can tie down whatever you’re carrying easily and the 2 rear doors also open to allow for a more versatile load space.
How much can it carry? The Duster Commercial has a load capacity of 1,150 litres (4×2) or 1,000 litres (4×4), a payload of 550 kg and a flat cargo deck almost 1.4 metres long and more than a metre width between the wheel arches.
On the Road? The engine isn’t exactly refined but once you adjust to the power delivery (and noise) it’s more than adequate, even with a load on board. The commercial version handles just like the passenger model and was well able for motorways as well as the potholed roads around Kerry. There’s loads of ground clearance and a wet and muddy building site was no challenge to the 4×4 Duster.
And Safety? The passenger Duster has received only 3 stars in the Euro NCAP tests but reassuringly the commercial version come with ABS and ESC (Electronic Stability Control) and a host of standard safety features.
Options? Our test car was a Signature spec which came with Air Conditioning, steering wheel controls and 16” alloys. Standard equipment on the entry level includes roof bars, a chrome grille, Bluetooth connectivity and Fog lights.
Up to 1,150 litres of load space with 550 kg payload
Will it break the bank? The 1.5l Diesel in Signature 4×4 costs €16,452 excluding VAT and will consume 5.3L/100km.
Verdict? The Dacia Duster commercial is ideal for a new business that needs a good looking commercial vehicle without a hefty price tag.
Why you’ll buy one? Great value; looks good; well priced
Why you won’t? Interior feels a little cheap; Safety rating is low
Dacia Duster Commercial Signature 4×4
Engine: 1.5 dCi 110bhp
Max speed: 170kmph
0-100 kph: 12.1 seconds
Emissions (Motor Tax): 137g/km
Model price range: €16,452 EX VAT
Load Capacity: 1,150 litres (4×2) or 1,000 litres (4×4)
Payload: 550kg
Towing Weight (Braked): 680kg (1,500kg)
No of Doors: 5 doors
Euro NCAP : 3 stars
Fuel type: Diesel
Fuel Economy (combined cycle): 5.3 litres per 100km
Length: 4315mm
Width: 2000mm
Height: 1625mm
Wheelbase: 2673mm
For more information check out the Dacia Ireland website or its Facebook page or follow them on twitter here
Suzanne Keane
12th August, 2015
