Dacia has unveiled the all-new Bigster, its largest model to date, marking its entry into the compact SUV segment. Essentially a stretched version of the hugely popular Duster, the Bigster retains the same rugged aesthetic but offers more space and features, signaling an evolution for the brand. The Bigster measures 4.57 m in length, 1.81 m in width, and 1.71 m in height—making it about 230 mm longer than the Duster, though it shares the same width. The styling of these mechanically related SUVs is quite similar, but the Bigster benefits from a redesigned front bumper, an extended wheelbase, and a longer rear overhang. Look closer, and you’ll notice subtle tweaks to the side gills, windows, and tailgate as well.
Inside, the dashboard is carried over from
the Duster, contributing to Dacia’s cost-cutting policy. However, it steps up
with more tech and safety features. A 10.1-inch infotainment display comes
standard across all trims, while the digital instrument cluster is available in
7-inch and 10-inch options. The Extreme trim stands out with its panoramic
sunroof, Arkamys 3D Sound system, built-in navigation, and wireless charging.
Meanwhile, the Journey trim adds an electric tailgate and adaptive cruise
control—marking a first for Dacia.
Another important difference between the
Bigster and the Duster is the available space for passengers and their luggage.
The Bigster offers more legroom for the second-row seats, and a massive boot
with a capacity 667 lt. There’s no word yet on a seven-seater
variant, so for now, it remains a five-seater SUV. Other improvements in the
Bigster include an acoustic windscreen, thicker glazing, better sound
insulation for the engine, a new carpet, touch-sensitive LEDs, passenger lumbar
adjustment, and a dual-zone A/C with rear vents. The SUV is equipped with
Dacia’s YouClip system for mounting accessories in different parts of the
cabin. Practicality can be further improved with an optional second-row
armrests that doubles as a backpack, a storage organizer for the seatbacks, and
a cargo box that mounts on the two bar. As expected, the Bigster is available
with Dacia’s camping-friendly accessories including the Sleep Pack, Roof Rack,
and Tent.
As with Dacia’s entire ICE-powered model
range, the Bigster rides on the CMF-B architecture sourced from the Renault
Group. The powertrain lineup comprises mild-hybrid ECO-G (gas/LPG), mild-hybrid
gasoline, and self-charging hybrid setups. It’s also the first Renault Group
vehicle to feature the new Hybrid 155 powertrain, pairing a four-cylinder
engine with two electric motors, a 1.4 kWh battery, and a clutch-less automatic
gearbox. The combined 153 hp makes it Dacia’s most powerful
model ever. According to the company, the Bigster Hybrid 155 can drive in
full-electric mode up to 80% of the time in urban areas, improving efficiency
by 6% over the Hybrid 140, available on the Duster and Jogger. Other options
include the TCe 140, featuring a mild-hybrid 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder
engine with 138 hp and a 0.8 kWh battery. This engine is
mated to a six-speed manual transmission, sending power to the front wheels.
Dacia might have discontinued diesels but
it still offers powertrains that can run on both gasoline and LPG. The Bigster
ECO-G 140 is the first to add LPG capability to a mild-hybrid setup, producing
the same 138 hp. When the 50-lt gasoline tank and 49-lt LPG
tank are full, the Bigster ECO-G 140 can travel up to 1,450 km between refuelling stops. Lastly, the only all-wheel-drive variant is the Bigster
TCe 130 4×4, featuring a slightly detuned version of the mild-hybrid 1.2-liter
engine with 128 hp. This model is equipped with a six-speed
manual and Dacia’s Terrain Control 4×4 system, offering five drive modes: Auto,
Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road, and Eco.
Dacia hasn’t provided specifics on the
Bigster’s market launch, but it’s expected to hit Europe and the UK in the
coming months. Although the Bigster will likely be Dacia’s priciest model, it
will still undercut most rivals in the compact SUV segment, staying true to the
brand’s budget-friendly identity.
