In the competitive world of SUVs, the Dacia Duster and Renault Austral stand out for their versatility and value. Both vehicles, produced by brands under the Renault Group, may share some lineage yet target distinct audiences with unique needs. This article dives into key aspects like design, performance, and innovation to see how these two models compare.
Both the Dacia Duster and Renault Austral embrace the robust SUV body type, yet they cater to diverse design philosophies. The Duster, with a length of 4343mm, width of 1813mm, and height up to 1661mm, is compact yet rugged, portraying off-road readiness. In comparison, the Renault Austral is slightly larger with a length of 4533mm, width of 1825mm, and height of 1645mm, emphasizing style and cruising comfort.
Under the hood, the Dacia Duster offers flexibility with its engine options spanning LPG, Full Hybrid, and Petrol MHEV. Its power output ranges between 91 to 140 HP, with optional front-wheel or all-wheel drive providing versatile driving dynamics. For performance enthusiasts, Duster's acceleration ranges from 9.9 to 14 seconds to hit 100km/h.
The Renault Austral steps up with two powerful offerings: a 158 HP Petrol MHEV and a more robust 200 HP Full Hybrid. Exclusively front-wheel driven with automatic transmission, it offers a smooth ride. The Austral performs the 0-100 km/h dash in a nimble 8.4 to 9.7 seconds, appealing to those valuing both performance and efficiency.
Sustainability and efficiency are significant purchasing factors today. The Dacia Duster offers a consumption range from 5 to 8.1 L/100km, reflecting its diverse engine options. Meanwhile, the Austral impresses with a commendable 4.8 to 6.5 L/100km combined consumption, showcasing the benefits of its full hybrid technology.
Carbon footprint is another area of interest. Duster's CO2 emissions range from 114 to 147 g/km, while the Austral boasts 109 to 148 g/km, further reinforcing the eco-friendly nature inherent to hybrids.
Inside, both SUVs are equipped to accommodate five passengers, focusing on comfort and space. The Duster provides a trunk capacity between 430 and 517 liters, suitable for adventure seekers with ample luggage. The Renault Austral, however, edges ahead with an impressive trunk capacity ranging from 527 to 555 liters, allowing more room for cargo.
Renault stands out with well-refined interiors and tech advancements, concentrating on driver assistance and connectivity, while the Duster appeals to pragmatic drivers seeking straightforward, reliable functionality at an attractive price.
For budget-conscious buyers driven by rugged practicality and functionality, the Dacia Duster is a strong contender, offering an adaptable choice between front-wheel and all-wheel-drive variants with varying engine configurations.
On the other hand, the Renault Austral appeals to those inclined towards a smoother, more sophisticated driving experience packed with modern technology and efficient hybrid powertrains.
Ultimately, the decision hinges on personal priorities—be it cost, adventure, technology, or green credentials—each SUV presents unique strengths to potential buyers.
Price and efficiency are key factors when choosing a car – and this is often where the real differences emerge.
Dacia Duster has a decisively advantage in terms of price – it starts at 16300 £, while the Renault Austral costs 29700 £. That’s a price difference of around 13465 £.
Fuel consumption also shows a difference: Dacia Duster manages with 4.70 L and is therefore hardly perceptible more efficient than the Renault Austral with 4.80 L. The difference is about 0.10 L per 100 km.
Under the bonnet, it becomes clear which model is tuned for sportiness and which one takes the lead when you hit the accelerator.
When it comes to engine power, the Renault Austral has a evident edge – offering 200 HP compared to 158 HP. That’s roughly 42 HP more horsepower.
In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the Renault Austral is slightly quicker – completing the sprint in 8.40 s, while the Dacia Duster takes 9.40 s. That’s about 1 s faster.
There’s no difference in top speed – both reach 180 km/h.
There’s also a difference in torque: Renault Austral pulls somewhat stronger with 270 Nm compared to 230 Nm. That’s about 40 Nm difference.
Beyond pure performance, interior space and usability matter most in daily life. This is where you see which car is more practical and versatile.
Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.
In curb weight, Dacia Duster is to a small extent lighter – 1377 kg compared to 1539 kg. The difference is around 162 kg.
In terms of boot space, the Renault Austral offers minimal more room – 555 L compared to 517 L. That’s a difference of about 38 L.
In maximum load capacity, the Renault Austral performs slight better – up to 1761 L, which is about 152 L more than the Dacia Duster.
When it comes to payload, Renault Austral hardly perceptible takes the win – 477 kg compared to 453 kg. That’s a difference of about 24 kg.
The Dacia Duster proves to be edges ahead and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
Dacia Duster is the better all-rounder in this comparison.
@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
The Dacia Duster is a no-nonsense compact SUV that delivers rugged practicality and surprisingly comfortable everyday driving without fuss. It might not win any beauty contests, but its honest design, easy-to-live-with cabin and tough attitude make it a smart pick for buyers who want reliable transport without luxury frills.
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@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
The Renault Austral dresses the family SUV in elegant modern looks and a surprisingly grown-up cabin that feels thoughtful and livable. It balances comfort and clever technology with a relaxed road presence—an appealing choice for buyers who want style and everyday sense without fuss.
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@ Renault Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
@ Renault Group Media
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@ Dacia / Renault Group Media
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@ Renault Group Media
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Costs and Consumption |
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Price
16300 - 24900 £
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Price
29700 - 37800 £
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Consumption L/100km
4.7 - 7.5 L
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Consumption L/100km
4.8 - 6.5 L
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Consumption kWh/100km
-
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Electric Range
-
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Electric Range
-
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Battery Capacity
0.60 kWh
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Battery Capacity
-
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co2
107 - 124 g/km
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co2
109 - 148 g/km
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Fuel tank capacity
50 L
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Fuel tank capacity
55 L
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Dimensions and Body |
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|---|---|
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Body Type
SUV
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Body Type
SUV
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Seats
5
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Seats
5
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Doors
5
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Doors
5
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Curb weight
1377 - 1455 kg
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Curb weight
1539 - 1613 kg
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Trunk capacity
348 - 517 L
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Trunk capacity
527 - 555 L
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Length
4343 mm
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Length
4533 mm
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Width
1813 mm
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Width
1825 mm
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Height
1656 - 1659 mm
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Height
1645 mm
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Max trunk capacity
1414 - 1609 L
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Max trunk capacity
1736 - 1761 L
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Payload
450 - 453 kg
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Payload
464 - 477 kg
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Engine and Performance |
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid, LPG
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Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Full Hybrid
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Transmission
Manuel, Automatic
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Transmission
Automatic
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Transmission Detail
Manual Gearbox, Automated Manual, Dual-Clutch Automatic
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Transmission Detail
CVT, Automatic Gearbox
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
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Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive
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Power HP
115 - 158 HP
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Power HP
158 - 200 HP
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
9.4 - 11.6 s
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Acceleration 0-100km/h
8.4 - 9.7 s
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Max Speed
180 km/h
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Max Speed
180 km/h
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Torque
190 - 230 Nm
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Torque
270 Nm
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Number of Cylinders
3 - 4
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Power kW
84 - 116 kW
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Power kW
116 - 147 kW
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Engine capacity
1199 - 1789 cm3
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Engine capacity
1199 - 1332 cm3
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General |
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Model Year
2025
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Model Year
2025
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CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C
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CO2 Efficiency Class
E, C
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Brand
Dacia
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Brand
Renault
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The Dacia Duster is offered with Front-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.
The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.
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