Dacia’s latest powertrain twist gives the Bigster and the Duster a rare blend of efficiency, capability, and value. The result is a boldly versatile drivetrain that looks tailor‑made for everyday drivers and long‑range roamers alike.
An all-in-one formula
At the heart of the lineup sits the new Hybrid-G 150 4×4, a powertrain that fuses full hybridization with bi‑fuel LPG/petrol, an automatic gearbox, and all‑wheel drive. It’s a packaging masterclass that underscores Dacia’s pragmatic commitment to smart engineering.
The thermal side is a 1.2‑liter three‑cylinder micro‑hybrid rated at 140 hp, linked to a six‑speed dual‑clutch transmission. On the rear axle, a 31 hp electric motor brings silent shove and on‑demand traction, drawing energy from a compact 0.84 kWh battery.
“This setup was built to make efficiency feel effortless while keeping adventure within reach.”
Numbers that change habits
Dacia claims up to 60% of everyday driving can occur in pure‑electric mode, trimming urban noise and tailpipe emissions. The calibrated handoff between petrol and electric power keeps the cabin calm while optimizing consumption.
Official figures quote 5.5 L/100 km on petrol and 7.1 L/100 km on LPG, numbers that favor real‑world savings across varied routes. The seamless two‑speed rear e‑drive adds a layer of refinement rarely seen in the value‑driven segment.
Range without compromise
Dacia pairs the system with twin 50‑liter tanks—one for petrol, one for LPG—to unlock serious touring range. With both brimmed, the brand targets nearly 1,500 km, a number that rivals diesel cruisers of old.
That breadth means fewer stops on cross‑country runs and more freedom to pick the cheapest fuel. For buyers in markets where LPG is affordable and widely available, the math looks especially compelling.
- Up to 60% electric driving time in everyday use
- Dual‑fuel petrol/LPG capability for cost‑savvy refueling
- Official consumption: 5.5 L/100 km (petrol) and 7.1 L/100 km (LPG)
- Twin 50 L tanks enabling near‑1,500 km range
- Six‑speed DCT for the petrol unit and a two‑speed rear e‑drive
- Standard AWD for all‑weather grip and light‑trail confidence
The Duster gets stronger, too
Beyond the flagship hybrid‑LPG‑AWD combo, the Duster receives a comprehensive refresh. The previous full hybrid with 140 hp gives way to a punchier 155 hp setup derived from the Bigster, bringing sharper response and extra headroom.
The 1.2‑liter micro‑hybrid rises from 130 hp to 140 hp, improving mid‑range flexibility without torching economy. Meanwhile, the long‑running Eco‑G 100 bows out for an all‑new Eco‑G 120, strengthening the LPG story at a friendlier price point.
Comfort meets capability
AWD and an automatic gearbox often live behind high price tags or heavy complexity, but Dacia’s integration feels refreshingly intuitive. The electric rear motor delivers instant low‑speed traction, and the DCT keeps the petrol side smooth under load.
Light off‑road tracks, muddy lanes, or snowy driveways become less of a hassle thanks to the hybrid‑assisted four‑wheel drive. At the same time, the small battery keeps weight in check and avoids charging anxiety altogether.
Value, timing, and expectations
Dacia says orders will open by year’s end, with the new hybrid‑LPG‑AWD sitting at the top of the range. Prices will naturally climb, but the brand’s reputation for value suggests a sharp sticker relative to the hardware on offer.
Few rivals combine full hybrid capability with bi‑fuel LPG, an automatic transmission, and proper AWD. That scarcity leaves Dacia with a distinct proposition for families, commuters, and budget‑minded explorers who want breadth without bloat.
Big picture: a smarter SUV gamble
The Bigster stands to benefit from greater touring range and sophisticated traction without losing its pragmatic edge. The Duster, for its part, becomes more potent and more diversified, widening its net of buyers.
If Dacia holds the line on pricing and keeps ownership costs tame, this could be the brand’s most convincing pivot since the original Logan’s value breakthrough. A single powertrain rarely changes shopping lists—but this one might just reorder the deck.
