Dacia Duster prices announced

UK pricing has been announced for the Dacia Duster - the budget 4x4 from Renault's sub-brand. It will be priced from £8,995 for the front-wheel-drive, 1.6-litre petrol. The same engine is available in four-wheel-drive form, priced from £10,995.

The base spec Access model includes 16-inch steel wheels, roof bars and electric front windows. ABS, Emergency Brake Assist and remote central locking are all standard, too. The Ambiance spec adds a 1.5-litre diesel engine and starts at £11,495. Again, you’ll need another £2,000 to add four-wheel-drive.

Upgraded equipment on the Ambiance includes an auxiliary socket, Bluetooth and USB connectivity. As well as body coloured bumpers, split folding rear seats and front fog lights.

Those wanting a more luxurious Duster will be drawn to the Laureate trim, which Dacia expects to cater for around two thirds of sales. The step up in quality adds satin chrome trim on the outside and piano black detailing on the interior. It also gets heated, electrically adjustable door mirrors – all for just £12,995. The four-wheel-drive, Duster Laureate, retails at £14,995, which is around £1,500 cheaper than the entry-level Nissan Qashqai.

Optional equipment is limited, with the only boxes left to tick, comprising of traction and stability control on the diesel models, and metallic paint. Buyers can also add packages comprising of kit such as rear parking sensors and mudflaps.

The Dacia Duster is available to order now at one of Dacia's 127 dealers, with deliveries starting in January.