- The all-new Bigster is Dacia’s largest and most powerful model to date.
- It looks similar to the Duster, but offers more space and features inside the cabin.
- The compact SUV is available with LPG, mild-hybrid, and hybrid powertrains.
Dacia introduced the all-new Bigster, its largest model yet, marking its entry in the compact SUV segment. The Bigster, a follow-up to the 2021 concept, is essentially a stretched version of the popular Duster, combining the same rugged looks with more space and features inside the cabin.
The Dacia Bigster measures 4.57 m (179.9 inches) long, 1.81 m (71.3 inches) wide, and 1.71 mm (67.3 inches) tall. This makes it around 230 mm (9 inches) longer than the Duster, while retaining the same width.
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The styling of the mechanically-related SUVs is very similar, although the Bigster gets a redesigned front bumper, a more generous wheelbase, and a longer rear overhang. A closer look reveals that the side gills, side windows, and tailage have also been tweaked.
Inside, the dashboard is carried over from the Duster, contributing to Dacia’s cost-cutting policy. However, the Bigster gets more tech and safety features compared to its smaller brother. The 10.1-inch infotainment display is standard on all trims, while the digital instrument cluster is available in 7-inch and 10-inch versions.
DACIA BIGSTER HYBRID 155
The high-spec Extreme trim features a panoramic opening sunroof, a six-speaker Arkamys 3D Sound system, navigation, and wireless charging. The other flagship trim is called Journey, adding an electric powered tailgate, and adaptive cruise control, which is 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 (23.6 cubic feet). Dacia didn’t mention anything about a seven-seater version, meaning that the Bigster is a five-seater SUV – at least for the time being.
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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 the 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.
LPG, Mild-Hybrid And Hybrid Powertrain Options
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.
The Bigster is the first Renault Group vehicle to get the new Hybrid 155 powertrain. This combines a four-cylinder engine with dual electric motors, a 1.4 kWh battery, and a clutch-less automatic gearbox (four gears for the ICE and two gears for the e-motors). The combined output is 153 hp (114 kW / 155 PS), making it Dacia’s most powerful model to date.
The company claims that the Hybrid 155 version of the Bigster can drive on all-electric mode for up to 80 percent of the time in urban environments, offering a 6 percent improvement in efficiency compared to the Hybrid 140 setup which is available on the Duster and Jogger.
Other options include the TCe 140 with a mild-hybrid turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 138 hp (103 kW / 140 PS) and a 0.8 kWh battery. The mill is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox sending power to the front wheels.
DACIA BIGSTER TCe 130 4×4
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 (103 kW / 140 PS). 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 (901 miles) between refuelling stops.
Last but not least, the only all-wheel-drive option is the Bigster TCe 130 4×4. This is fitted with a slightly less powerful version of the mild-hybrid 1.2-liter engine, matching the 128 hp (96 kW / 130 PS) of the equivalent Duster. A six-speed manual sends power to all four wheels, combined with five available driving modes from the Terrain Control 4×4 system (Auto, Snow, Mud/Sand, Off-Road, Eco).
Dacia didn’t get into details about the market launch of the Bigster, which is expected in Europe and the UK sometime in the coming months. The SUV will likely be Dacia’s most expensive offering, although it will still undercut most rivals in the compact SUV segment, supporting the budget-friendly character of the brand.
DACIA BIGSTER SKETCHES