Dacia Duster EDC 2017 Review: Practical, Fuel-Smart SUV

The 2017 facelifted Dacia Duster introduced a significant upgrade with its new EDC dual-clutch automatic transmission, making this already popular budget SUV even more appealing to drivers seeking convenience without breaking the bank. Paired exclusively with the 1.5-litre dCi diesel engine in front-wheel-drive configuration, the EDC version promises smoother shifts, better highway cruising, and impressive fuel economy, all while retaining the Duster’s renowned practicality and low ownership costs.

Engine and Transmission: Powertrain Excellence on a Budget

At the heart of the 2017 Dacia Duster EDC is Renault’s proven 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine, delivering 108bhp (110PS) and up to 250Nm of torque in automatic guise. This setup loses a minor 10Nm compared to the manual but feels punchy enough for everyday use, with strong low-end pull ideal for urban and motorway driving. The star addition is the six-speed EDC dual-clutch gearbox, borrowed from higher-end Renault models like the Megane and Kadjar. This efficient transmission shifts gears rapidly and smoothly, especially under gentle acceleration, transforming the Duster from a basic manual hauler into a more refined cruiser.

Reviewers noted the EDC’s unobtrusive operation during test drives across varied terrain, from Croatian mountain roads to South African dirt tracks. It handles highway overtakes with ease, though it can feel slightly hesitant under hard acceleration from low speeds. A sequential shift mode via the centre console lever allows manual control, but steering wheel paddles are absent, keeping costs down. Dacia wisely limited the EDC to 2WD models, prioritising efficiency over off-road prowess, as the gearbox shines on tarmac.

Performance and Handling: Balanced for Real-World Use

Don’t expect sports car thrills from the Duster EDC—it’s designed for practicality over pace. The 0-62mph sprint takes around 11.9 seconds, adequate for family duties but not exhilarating. Steering remains characteristically vague and light, with a peculiar self-centring feel that hampers precise cornering, and the soft suspension prioritises comfort over agility. Body control is relaxed, absorbing bumps well on poor roads, making it a forgiving choice for novice drivers or rough urban streets.

On faster roads, the EDC elevates the experience, holding gears logically and enabling relaxed long-distance travel. Diesel engine noise intrudes under load, sounding gruff, but it’s tolerable for a budget SUV. The ride quality impresses, with good compliance over potholes, and the 4×2 setup ensures nimble handling without the weight penalty of all-wheel drive.

This table highlights the minimal performance trade-offs for the automatic convenience.

Fuel Economy and Running Costs: Where the Duster Shines

One of the Duster EDC’s strongest suits is its frugality. Official figures claim 62.8mpg (combined), just shy of the manual’s 64.2mpg, with CO2 emissions at 116g/km—identical tax banding for company car users. Real-world tests confirm this, with drives achieving around 55-60mpg on mixed routes and as low as 5.5L/100km (51mpg) in varied conditions, far better than many rivals. Low insurance groups and service costs further enhance its appeal for fleet buyers and private owners alike.

At launch, pricing started at £14,995 for Laureate trim, rising to £16,245 for top Prestige, undercutting competitors like the Suzuki Vitara by thousands and the SsangYong Tivoli by over £2,000. This value proposition, combined with generous standard kit, makes the EDC a smart pick despite its higher-spec exclusivity.

Interior Comfort and Practicality: Spacious and Functional

Step inside the 2017 Duster, and practicality reigns. Higher trims like Prestige bring leather upholstery, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, chrome accents, and 16-inch alloys as standard. The cabin feels sturdy if plasticky, with improved materials post-facelift, though hard plastics dominate. Space is a highlight: rear legroom accommodates adults comfortably, and the 475-litre boot expands to 1,636 litres with seats folded—class-leading for the price.

• Seating: Five seats with good head and legroom; ISOFIX points on outer rears.
• Storage: Deep door bins, overhead nets, and a clever oddments tray.
• Tech: 7-inch touchscreen (Prestige), sat-nav, Bluetooth, USB, and cruise control.

Visibility is excellent thanks to the upright stance, and roof rails add versatility for adventures. However, wind and road noise at speed remind you of its budget roots.

Design and Build: Rugged Appeal Endures

The facelifted Duster retains its boxy, purposeful looks with satin chrome accents, skid plates, and chunky cladding. It’s unpretentious yet distinctive, appealing to those wanting an authentic SUV feel without premium pricing. Build quality holds up well, with a five-year warranty adding peace of mind.

Safety Features: Solid but Basic

Standard kit includes ABS, ESC, four airbags, and hill-start assist. Euro NCAP rated the Duster four stars pre-facelift; updates brought minor improvements, but it lags behind five-star rivals. Higher trims add parking sensors, though a reversing camera is absent.

Rivals Comparison: Unbeatable Value

The Duster EDC faces off against the Nissan Juke, Suzuki Vitara, and SsangYong Tivoli. It trumps them on price and space but trails in refinement and dynamics.

The Duster’s edge in costs and capacity is clear.

Long-Term Ownership: Reliability and Maintenance

Dacia’s shared Renault platform ensures reliable mechanics, with the 1.5 dCi proven durable. Servicing intervals are 12 months/12,000 miles, and parts are affordable. Owners report few issues, praising its no-nonsense durability for high-mileage use.

Who Should Buy the Dacia Duster EDC?

Ideal for families, commuters, and small businesses needing a versatile, economical SUV. Skip it if you crave premium feel or sharp handling—the Duster delivers where it counts: value, space, and efficiency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the Dacia Duster EDC available in 4×4?

No, the EDC automatic is 2WD only, focusing on on-road efficiency.

How reliable is the EDC gearbox?

Borrowed from Renault, it’s smooth and dependable in reviews, with no widespread issues reported.

What’s the real-world fuel economy?

Expect 50-60mpg depending on conditions, close to official claims.

Does it have Apple CarPlay?

No, the 2017 MediaNav system supports basic Bluetooth and USB but not smartphone mirroring.

Is the Duster good for off-roading?

The 2WD EDC is tarmac-focused; opt for manual 4×4 variants for trails.