The Romanian brand’s flagship SUV is embracing electrification while preserving its renowned off-road prowess. Dacia Duster CEO Denis Le confirmed at the European Car of the Year 2025 awards that “by the end of 2025, we will introduce a new hybrid solution for our 4×4 version. We will electrify the rear axle with an electric motor.” This strategic move ensures the Duster remains one of Europe’s most affordable capable off-roaders during the electric vehicle transition.
Hybrid 4×4 Technology Breakthrough
The upcoming hybrid 4×4 will feature an electrified rear axle with an e-motor, creating a hybrid automatic transmission system while maintaining LPG compatibility. This innovative approach addresses the challenge of providing all-wheel-drive capability in electrified vehicles while keeping costs reasonable for Dacia’s value-conscious customers.
The CMF-BEV platform, an EV-adapted version of the current Duster’s architecture, has been confirmed to accommodate a second motor on the rear axle, ensuring the Duster EV can remain faithful to its rugged, outdoorsy billing.
Market Positioning Strategy
Prices currently top out at just north of £26,000, with the new range-topping 4×4 hybrid expected to nudge that to nearer £30,000. This positioning maintains Dacia’s commitment to affordability while delivering advanced electrified drivetrain technology.
Government Policy Alignment
The Duster’s electrification timeline aligns perfectly with the UK’s zero emission vehicle mandate. The UK requires 80% of new cars and 70% of new vans sold in Great Britain to be zero emission by 2030, increasing to 100% by 2035.
This follows the pragmatic decision to delay the ban on new diesel and petrol cars from 2030 to 2035, putting the UK in line with other major global economies such as France, Germany, Sweden and Canada.
Technical Specifications and Capabilities
Current Powertrain Options
| Engine Type | Power (HP) | Drive Type | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eco-G 100 Bi-Fuel | 100 | FWD | £19,380 |
| Mild Hybrid 130 | 130 | FWD/4×4 | £23,550 |
| Hybrid 140 | 140 | FWD | £24,350 |
| Hybrid 4×4 (2025) | TBC | 4×4 | ~£30,000 |
Off-Road DNA Preserved
With up to 217mm of ground clearance, an improved angle of approach greater than 30° to climb in 4-wheel drive and scratch-resistant materials, Duster maintains its SUV DNA and excellent crossover capabilities.
Full EV Development
Dacia is readying its hugely popular Duster for the EV age, with CEO Denis Le Vot promising “a lot about electrification” as part of a showcase planned for November. The electric variant will compete against upcoming models like Fiat’s Grande Panda 4×4 and Toyota’s ‘baby’ Land Cruiser.
Platform Evolution
The Duster is set to be the second of Dacia’s current model line-up to gain an EV, after the Sandero hatchback, which is due a battery-electric option as it moves into its next generation in 2027.
Market Impact
Le Vot confirmed that the new Duster was the number one SUV seller in Europe at the end of November, across all SUV sizes. This success provides a strong foundation for the electric transition, with the first two Dusters selling more than 100,000 in Britain, mostly private sales from customers choosing them with their own money.
The electrification strategy ensures Dacia maintains its competitive edge in the affordable SUV segment while meeting increasingly stringent emissions regulations. With the hybrid 4×4 arriving late 2025 and full electric variants following by 2027, the Duster proves that electrification doesn’t mean compromising on capability or affordability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When will the Dacia Duster hybrid 4×4 be available?
A: The hybrid 4×4 variant will launch by the end of 2025, featuring an electrified rear axle and automatic transmission.
Q: Will the electric Duster maintain its off-road capabilities?
A: Yes, the CMF-BEV platform supports dual motors for 4×4 capability, preserving the Duster’s 217mm ground clearance and 30° approach angle.
Q: How much will the hybrid 4×4 cost?
A: Expected pricing is around £30,000, maintaining Dacia’s value proposition in the affordable SUV segment.
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