Used Dacia Duster cars for sale

Dacia Duster buying guide

Duster models come in several different trim and engine configurations. We’ll walk you through each option in this guide to help you pick the right version for you.

What Dacia Duster trim levels are there?

There are two basic trims that Dacia technically offered for the Duster in the UK called Core and Access. These were stripped-down versions that didn’t even come with a radio – almost none were sold, with the vast majority of buyers opting for at least the basic Essential specification.

Essential trim includes body-coloured bumpers, simple steel wheels, air conditioning, and a radio with USB, aux-in and Bluetooth.

Comfort trim is the next up and brings a few nice touches including alloy wheels, cruise control, electric rear windows, electrically adjustable heated door mirrors, a reversing camera and rear parking sensors, and a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Prestige is the range-topping trim. This adds upgraded larger alloy wheels, Prestige cloth upholstery, climate control, keyless entry, an upgraded around-view camera system and blind-stop detection.

Nearly new buyers might find 2020 Duster models offered in SE Twenty trim. This version starts at Comfort trim and adds larger alloys, graphics on the side of the car, special blue paint and interior upholstery, and the upgraded camera system.

Techroad trim was offered throughout 2019 and has a similar level of equipment to Prestige. This version comes in a choice of special red or silver paint finishes.

Dacia Duster interior and technology

The Duster’s interior lacks the frills and premium touches you’ll find on much more expensive cars, but then it also lacks the price tag of those cars too. Everything feels solidly assembled and robust, however, so it should stand up to the rigours of family life. All controls are sensibly located, making for an ergonomic, easy-to-use cabin.

Dacia’s infotainment system – available on Comfort trim and upwards – may lack the bells and whistles of far more expensive cars, but it includes all the basic features you’d expect. Crucially it also includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to use your smartphone apps through the car’s touchscreen.

Practicality is strong in the Duster, with a spacious cabin and sizeable boot. There are several interior storage cubbies and most models come with factory-fitted roof rails, allowing you to carry more gear on the roof.

Dacia Duster engine range explained

(Most popular!) Dacia Duster 1.0 TCe petrol

This entry-level engine replaced the old 1.6-litre unit in 2020. It’s a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine that makes 90hp. That’s slightly less than the outgoing engine but the extra low-down torque of this turbo unit somewhat makes up for the power deficit.

The TCe 100 is the same engine as the TCe 90 but with power turned up to an even 100hp, helping it feel marginally stronger when you accelerate.

Dacia Duster 1.6 SCe petrol

This was the entry-level engine for the Duster before 2020. It’s a 1.6-litre non-turbo four-cylinder petrol making 115hp. This gives the Duster adequate performance but will feel a little strained when trying to reach overtaking speeds on the motorway.

Dacia Duster 1.3 TCe petrol

Next up in the Duster engine range is the 1.3-litre four-cylinder TCe 130. This turbo petrol engine makes 130hp, helping this model feel much stronger than cheaper variants. The 0-62mph sprint takes a little over 10 seconds.

At the head of the Duster petrol engine lineup is the TCe 150. As the name suggests, this bumps power up to 150hp helping this engine deliver stronger in-gear acceleration. Most versions equipped with this engine are also specified with four-wheel drive.

Dacia Duster 1.5 Blue dCi diesel

This is the only diesel option in the Duster lineup. It’s a 1.5-litre four-cylinder that makes 115hp, which is just about enough to avoid the car feeling sluggish. Average economy can rise as high as 64mpg if you drive with a light right foot. This is a good choice for high-mileage drivers or those that do the occasional bit of light towing with their car.