Eduard Huma
Dacia is preparing to introduce a new Hybrid 150 4×4 version for both the Duster and the Bigster in the UK, and the change is not minor. The configuration combines electrification with an automatic transmission, something that has been repeatedly requested, and it is expected to reach the British market later this year.
Dacia made this announcement shortly after marking the production of 100,000 Bigster available with front-wheel drive, being sold in the UK in the last year. This means that Duster`s big brother has grown in popularity and become one of the most preferred SUVs by English customers. This is the reason why Dacia will introduce the Hybrid 150 4×4 variant in the same market.
Exterior
On the exterior, there are no noticeable changes announced. The update concerns the mechanical configuration rather than styling adjustments.
Interior
There are no interior modifications detailed for the Hybrid 150 4×4 versions. The focus of the announcement remains strictly on drivetrain changes.
Complete Powertrain Information
The new system is built around a 1.2-liter combustion engine, the same unit used in Dacia’s mild-hybrid powertrains, paired with 48-volt electrification. The addition is a new electric motor mounted on the rear axle, adding 30 horsepower and 87 Nm of torque to the overall output.
The rear electric motor sends the power to the rear via a two-speed gearbox. This means that the first gear was built to provide strong torque at low speed, while the second one was designed to help engage the car in reaching higher speeds faster.
The total output stands at 148 horsepower and 230 Nm of torque, which is not bad at all. However, despite this power output, the designation still remains the Hybrid 150 4×4. And in comparison with the current 130 4×4 pot, the new configuration will be a bit more powerful. It will also feature a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, which replaces the existing six-speed manual.
The introduction of a hybrid powertrain with 4×4 and automatic transmission on both models will be a premiere and will definitely create quite a stir among the English customers. In the Bigster`s case, it is also the first availability of an all-wheel-drive option, as the model has until now been limited to front-wheel-drive mild-hybrid and full-hybrid versions.
Conclusion
In parallel, Dacia continues expanding its electrified range. It recently introduced what it describes as the world’s first hybrid LPG 4×4 powertrain for the Duster and Bigster, featuring two 50-liter tanks, one for petrol and one for LPG, and offering a range of up to 1,500 kilometers, or 930 miles, on the WLTP cycle. The Hybrid 150 4×4 will join this growing lineup when it arrives in the UK later this year.
Dacia Duster/Bigster UK – Photo Gallery
