New Dacia model debut: Budget-friendly SUV hits the C segment
It was only a matter of time before Dacia entered the most popular segment of the market, and naturally, the new model is approaching things uniquely. Additionally, it will feature a robust four-cylinder engine under the bonnet.
The arrival of the Bigster is no surprise, as its concept was unveiled in 2021. This model is intended to compete in the C segment, with its main advantage being its low price. With a wheelbase of approximately 2.7 metres (slightly more than the Toyota RAV4), it will be priced from €25,000 (about £21,700). Time to start cutting costs!
Of course, the manufacturer immediately showcased the best-equipped vehicles. For the first time, we see 19-inch wheels, and for the first time, you can opt for a two-tone body. I appreciate the hood creases, as they add a bit of aggression to this substantial shape.
You might ask: where are the cost savings? Well, let me explain. Open the boot lid (with a capacity of 680 litres, although that's slightly extended with space for a spare wheel), and it rises on a single electric strut. You won't find a third row of seats in the rear. In the most expensive version, the upholstery is fabric. The entire cabin is carried over from the Duster, along with the characteristic driving position, meaning you either need long arms and short legs or sit in a very unusual pose.
However, the managers have done their research. They surveyed customers and discovered that Dacia couldn't compete in this segment without certain features. These include adaptive cruise control, a glass roof, adjustable rear seatback, dual-zone air conditioning, rear seat ventilation, or improved engine insulation. I know this might bring a wry smile to some readers, but by omitting non-essential elements, Dacia has become one of the most popular car brands in Europe. Why have an electrically adjustable steering wheel when you set it once for leasing? Exactly.
It was also understood that without at least 150 horsepower, the Bigster might fall behind the competition. So here it is: under the bonnet is a new 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, an evolution of smaller units generating 107 horsepower. It's supported by two electric motors, providing a total of 155 horsepower, but a battery takes up space for the spare wheel. Consequently, adding an LPG system to this mix is impossible.
However, if you forgo the "full" hybrid, an LPG installation can be factory-combined with a three-cylinder engine featuring a "mild" hybrid system. It has a displacement of 1.2 litres and generates 140 horsepower. If you don't want the LPG installation, no worries. It's only an option.
If you're looking for a 4x4 drive, the Bigster is available with a 1.2-litre engine producing 130 horsepower and a manual transmission. There may be doubts about its capabilities, but the manufacturer hasn't yet disclosed the weight of the Bigster. Perhaps, like the Duster, it will be an interesting option for foresters.
The hybrid version is expected to cost around €30,000 (about £26,100). The exact UK price list has not yet been disclosed, but we already know what each equipment version will offer.
Dacia Bigster - versions and equipment
Bigster Essential: 17-inch alloy wheels, fixed roof rails, a Media Display multimedia system with a 10.1-inch central screen, a 7-inch instrument cluster, manual air conditioning, radar, and a rear parking camera, and electrically adjustable front and rear windows.
Bigster Expression: Essential + dual-zone automatic air conditioning, automatic parking brake, rain sensors, automatically folding side mirrors, modular rear bench seat foldable in a 40/20/40 configuration with Easy Fold function, etc.
Bigster Extreme: Expression + 18-inch alloy wheels, modular roof rails, exterior and interior decorative elements in a brown-copper colour, panoramic opening roof, keyless entry card, easy-to-clean microcloud fabric upholstery, rubber boot floor mat, 10-inch digital instrument cluster, Media Nav Live system with a 10.1-inch central screen and internet-accessible navigation, Arkamys 3D sound system with six speakers, downhill speed control, etc.
Bigster Journey: Expression + 18-inch alloy wheels, automatic boot lid, keyless entry card, high central console with armrest, electrically adjustable driver's seat, 10-inch digital instrument cluster, Media Nav Live system with a 10.1-inch central screen and internet-accessible navigation, Arkamys 3D Sound System with six speakers, wireless smartphone charger, active speed regulator, etc.
The cars will be available in showrooms around the turn of the year, timed to GMT.
