The third-generation Dacia Duster introduced in 2024 has been given a commercial conversion, changing the family-friendly SUV into a dedicated cargo carrier.

Dacia did the same with earlier generations of the car and has now completed a factory-engineered job on the latest model, which is new from the ground up, features a chunkier-styled body and has more generous equipment levels inside and out.

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The 4×4 version with 217mm of ground clearance runs with a 1.2-litre, three-cylinder turbo petrol engine developing 130hp, supported by a 48V mild hybrid system driving through a six-speed manual gearbox.

New “terrain control” provides five modes for different driving situations and there’s adaptive hill descent control too. Braked trailer towing capacity is rated at 1,500kg.

Pokier petrol

For users who don’t need the traction reassurance that 4×4 brings, but would welcome more urgent performance, there’s a two-wheel drive version with an altogether different powertrain.

This comprises a four-cylinder petrol engine plus two electric motors – a 50hp unit for a combined output of 155hp, and a high-voltage starter/generator – plus a 1.4kWh battery.

The clutchless gearbox provides two speeds for electric propulsion and six for petrol power.

Inside, removing the rear seats liberates 1,149 litres of load space above a flat wooden floor with four lashing points, while a mesh bulkhead separates the driver/passenger and cargo compartments. Overall payload is 430kg.

Rubber mats, a full-length load cover and an opaque film applied to the fixed rear side windows complete the conversion.

On-road prices start at £28,694 for the Duster Expression 130 4×4, while the 155 4×2 is from £29,414.