Rumored Grand Duster Won’t Happen As It Would Have Been Too Expensive For A Dacia

Dacia’s first-ever SUV, the Duster, has been a hit with buyers, but despite its success, in likelihood it will remain alone in the Romanian automaker’s range.

Dacia was rumored to launch a larger crossover. Speculatively named the Grand Duster, it was supposed to arrive with more generous proportions and seating for up to seven.

It would have been a more affordable rival to the likes of the Nissan X-Trail and Kia Sorento, among others. As for the equipment list, it was supposed to offer basic gear in the entry-level grade, and features such as sat-nav, reversing camera and climate control in upper trim levels.

Also Watch: All-New Dacia Duster Still Delivers More Than You’d Expect From It

However, the brand’s UK chief, Louise O’Sullivan, recently confirmed to Autocar that such a model won’t happen. And for obvious reasons, as an SUV larger than the Duster will automatically come with increased pricing. So, in turn, potential clients might look elsewhere, as the alleged Grand Duster will actually fall out of the company’s low-cost strategy.

As for the second generation Dacia Duster, it has been around since last fall, when it was unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show.

Still assembled in Romania for the European market, it brings familiar styling but with all-new body panels, revised trim and technology and a choice of petrol and diesel engines.

In the United Kingdom, the base variant starts from just under £10,000 ($12,959/€11,214), whereas in Germany, the cheapest Duster will set you back for at least €11,490 ($13,277) in the Access trim level with front-wheel drive.