Entering the world of large SUVs on a budget is no small feat, but Dacia, the Romanian brand under the Renault umbrella, is tackling it with all seriousness and drive. After the extraordinary success of the Duster model, which has become synonymous with an affordable SUV, Dacia is now preparing to expand its range and enter the C-segment with the Bigster model. And in case you're wondering – yes, it still stays true to its budget car character. But watch out: will the Bigster, unlike its younger brother Duster, finally exceed three stars in NCAP safety tests?
Name Dacia Bigster it promises a lot in itself – and quite rightly so. With their own 4.57 meters long it is significantly larger than the Duster model, which means more space for passengers and luggage. It measures in width 1.81 meters, in height 1.71 meters, and the wheelbase was extended to 2.7 meters. The exterior with 19-inch wheels, two-tone bodywork and striking lines suggests that Dacia is moving from "budget limited" to "budget attractive". Despite its increased size, the Bigster offers only five seats, but plenty of comfort.
But before we get too excited, we must not forget - previous models, including the Duster, are on the safety NCAP tests achieved only a modest three stars. Can you Does Bigster correct that impression? Can the family car be (un)safe?
Video NPCAP: Dacia Duster 2024
Equipment that will impress
If you're a fan of the minimalist, basic cars we've come to expect from Dacia in the past, the Bigster will surprise you. In this model you can find electric tailgate, panoramic sunroof, wireless charging of smartphones, adaptive cruise control, and even electrically adjustable driver's seat. Digital screens dominate the interior, where it boasts of 10-inch digital driver display and 10.1-inch touch screen.
Dacia aims higher here, but still maintains the basic goal: an affordable price. If they manage to provide a similar pricing policy to the Duster, the Bigster could become a real success. But again - price will play an important role, as well as any improvement in security.
Various powertrains
When it comes to drives, Dacia does not disappoint. After the discontinuation of diesel engines, they offer Hybrid 155, for the first time in the Renault concern. This system includes a gasoline engine, two electric motors, 1.4 kWh battery, and an automatic transmission with four gears for the gasoline engine and two for the electric motors. The total power is 155 horsepower (107 hp from the gasoline engine and an additional 50 hp from one electric motor). Although Dacia does not reveal the exact data, it is said that the Bigster drives in urban conditions up to 80 % time in all-electric mode. We'll see about that, the battery is really modest.
If a hybrid isn't your thing, you have that too TCe 140, 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine with a mild hybrid system. This new engine, which works according to the Miller cycle, enters Daca's range for the first time. It is connected to manual 6-speed gearbox with front-wheel drive, while the s four-wheel drive available as an option.
For fans of gas - but not to park it in the garage
For those looking for maximum efficiency and don't want a hybrid, there's more ECO-G 140 with 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo engine, which runs on liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). The driving range in this case is astonishing 1,450 kilometers, allowing 99 liters (26.1-gallon tank) divided into 50 liters of gasoline and 49 liters of gas (LPG). Such a combination can allow Bigster to become a champion in long autonomy.
Accessories for adventurers
If you are of an adventurous nature, the Bigster will definitely satisfy your need for flexibility as well. It is available as an add-on sleeping set, which includes a folding bed that can be set up in less than two minutes, along with multiple storage spaces. If 667 liters of luggage space is not enough, you can also use roof racks, which last up to 80 kilograms cargo (we know it's relatively small), which is more than enough for additional equipment or luggage. Oh, and let's not forget – you also get a tent in the range of "products" offered by Dacia.
Final thought: The Dacia Bigster looks like a very promising addition to the already popular SUV lineup. With a lot of space, a higher level of comfort and a rich equipment, it will undoubtedly attract buyers who are looking for more for their money. But the biggest challenge will be whether Dacia can finally exceed the threshold of three stars in the NCAP safety test. The Duster has already disappointed, and the Bigster will need to improve on that score if it wants to succeed in the competition. Price will continue to play a key role, but if set up correctly, the Bigster is sure to appeal to buyers who want something affordable, yet spacious and modern. SUV.
Dacia's problem is still the "generation" older Renault engines and safety, even though the cars look better than the Renault design language. But "packaging" is not always everything, the content is also important. And in my case, this content is "children" and their safety. So 5 stars and not 3 stars. That's the harsh truth.
Projected new base price Dacia Bigster, which will enter the market in 2025, will be slightly higher than the current model Duster. According to several predictions, the base price will start around 22.000 € or even slightly more, given the richer basic equipment, larger dimensions and additional technologies. Although the Duster remains more affordable, with a base price of under 20.000 €, the Bigster targets the higher segment and offers customers more space, performance and a greater level of comfort, making it a C-SUV class.
