The New Dacia Duster received a commendation in the Best Small SUV category at last night’s Auto Express Awards.

The New Dacia Duster was praised for its build quality, drive and simplicity, making it a top choice for drivers looking for a great value SUV.  

Commenting on the commendation, Graham Hope, Editor at Auto Express said: "The Dacia Duster continues to impress as a no-nonsense, well-built car that's good to drive and exceptional value for money compared to many other cars in this sector of the market. It should definitely be on your shortlist if you are after an affordable small SUV."

Vincent Tourette, Managing Director, Groupe Renault UK, said of the result: “The Dacia brand is continuing to draw fans, not only in the industry, but also UK drivers with its range of simple, great value cars. It’s wonderful to see that Dacia cars are proving such a hit since launching in the UK just four years ago and we recently sold our 100,000th car. Having recently refreshed the range, we’re delighted that Auto Express have commended the New Duster in the Small SUV Category.”

The New Dacia Duster line-up starts at a ‘shockingly affordable’ £9,495 and was recently updated with DAB radio as standard from Ambiance trim as well as new upholstery to the interior for Access and Laureate trim levels. To the exterior, the Duster receives new, square headlights, bringing the SUV up-to-date and complementing its robust chrome grille.

There are also several new options available on the upgraded Duster, such as 16-inch ‘Tyrol’ diamond-cut alloy wheels, adding further presence to the SUV. Rear parking sensors are also available for the first time as a factory-fit option, offering peace of mind to customers when reversing. In addition to this, a rear parking camera is also available as an option on Lauréate trim and above. To the interior, all new part-leather ‘Aspira’ upholstery is available, offering more refinement as well as practicality.

There are also a number of other enhancements to the Duster line-up, including a new petrol TCe 125 engine, offering customers the option of a more powerful petrol engine. Available on Lauréate trim and above, the inclusion of the new engine in the line-up means that customers now have the choice of a petrol or diesel variant at every trim level.

Finally, a new, top-of-the-range trim level, Prestige, has been introduced to the line-up. On top of the Lauréate trim, Prestige receives 16-inch ‘Tyrol’ diamond-cut alloy wheels, MediaNav Evolution and rear-parking camera as standard, offering a price walk of £900 from Lauréate and representing a customer saving of £250.

The Auto Express Commendation comes on the back of a range of other industry awards for the no-nonsense brand, including the Dacia Sandero being awarded the title of “Best Small Car under £12,000” by What Car? for the last five consecutive years.

For more information on the Dacia range please visit www.dacia.co.uk