ROME (ITALPRESS) – Dacia Duster represents an almost iconic model in the international automotive scene, a model that democratized the SUV and also presented itself to the public in a 4×4 version. A version that allowed a great many customers to be able to buy at an extremely low price (until then almost unattainable) a compact SUV equipped with a simple but extremely effective all-wheel drive, capable of offering mobility even on rough terrain, in many cases precluded to front-wheel drive sport utilities. Over the years it has won over customers living in mountainous areas but also those who, while living in the plains, wanted to equip themselves with a multipurpose vehicle capable of tackling extremely rough trails, perhaps to cultivate a sport or passion. Initially available with gasoline engines and later also Diesel, 4×4 traction is now presented in the third generation of Duster combined with an unprecedented and efficient 48V mild hybrid powertrain with 130 hp that takes full advantage of the features of all-wheel drive and effective management electronics.A transition from Diesel to 48V mild hybrid with no regrets because it has allowed to improve the off-road characteristics of a model that allows to live in contact with nature and explore areas otherwise precluded to normal front-wheel drives. Thanks to the presence of the compact electric motor assisting the thermal unit, New Duster TCe 130 4×4 proves capable of tackling the most difficult passages, while also being able to rely on truly effective traction control electronics. The powertrain consists of a 1.2-liter turbocharged TCe 4-cylinder gasoline engine capable of delivering a maximum power output of 130 hp and a maximum torque of 230 Nm to which is added an electric motor delivering 16 hp that is powered by a 0.8 kWh battery. It is light, compact but also extremely effective off-road. Looking at it from the outside, however, we can see that New Duster 4×4 has a higher ground clearance than the 4×2 version (almost 1 cm more) and is 217 mm, the best in the B SUV segment. As for the characteristic angles that are fundamental in offroad driving, we can appreciate that the new generation improves in all aspects. If the old Duster 4×4 had a 30° angle of attack, the new one rises to 31°. The bump angle then increases from 21° to 24° and the exit angle from 33° to an impressive 36°. Benchmark values that hint at New Duster’s ability to tackle even the most difficult passages. The 4×4 version of the new generation Duster has greater ground clearance then, a specific front bumper (different from the 4×2) with a more favorable angle of attack, and a rear axle with multiple arms to allow greater wheel travel and maintain ground contact more easily. In addition, the tires are 3PMSF, all seasons, with greater offroad capabilities. DACIA has therefore improved the 4×4 version of this new generation to continue to be the best 4×4 among non-specialists. It is a mechanical all-wheel drive system with a specific rear suspension but on which it has refined the electronics to offer greater effectiveness off the tarmac. New Duster 4×4 has 5 driving modes instead of the 3 previously available: To fully enjoy New Duster’s great capabilities, the driver can select, through the rotor between the seats, the mode that best suits the situation he or she is facing. For maximum efficiency, these modes have a direct impact on torque distribution between front and rear axles; Power assist; Electronic assists: traction control and electronic stability control; Engine pedal response.
photo: press office Renault Group Italy
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