The third generation of the Dacia Duster was introduced in early 2024, but tuners have yet to unleash their creativity on the Romanian best-seller. German dealer Carpoint, known for creating special editions of Dacia models, was the first to preview a tuning kit for the new Duster, focusing on sportiness. For now, the Dacia Duster III Carpoint Edition has been teased through a series of renderings, setting the stage for when the company applies the treatment to the actual car. Modifications include a wide body kit, a custom wrap, new wheels, and a lowering kit, transforming the rugged-looking subcompact SUV into a more aggressive entity.
The body kit includes front and rear
bumper extensions, flared fenders, a hood scoop, and fresh door garnishes.
Carpoint has kept mum on the materials for these add-ons, but they certainly
outshine the stock Duster’s 20 percent recycled plastic cladding with a
flashier look. Additionally, the company has introduced a few splashes of red,
accentuating the (purely decorative) inlets scattered across the bodywork. The
new alloy wheels look massive, likely measuring 20 or 21 inches in diameter.
They’re wrapped in ultra-low-profile tires, which are noticeably wider than the
originals. The lowered suspension slashes the Duster’s class-leading 217 mm ground clearance, stripping away any pretense of off-road
capability.
The German dealer didn’t disclose any
performance upgrades but hinted that the kit harbors “a few secrets” set for a
near-future reveal. With luck, these extensive visual enhancements will pair
with a substantial power boost and chassis modifications to match the upgraded
aesthetics. Currently, the most potent powertrain in the new Dacia Duster
lineup is the self-charging hybrid, delivering a combined output of 138 hp. Yet, the brawnier choice might be the mild-hybrid 1.3 TCe with
128 hp, especially since it’s the only variant offering AWD.
It’s an open question which one will underpin the Carpoint Edition.
We’ll keep an eye on Carpoint’s social
media feeds and update this narrative once they spill the details on their
audacious Duster project. Given their track record, expect the tuning kit to
hit the market at a reasonable price. Beyond customizing Dacias to owner
specifications, the dealer also markets complete vehicles outfitted with
pre-installed kits.