Dacia has officially unveiled its latest small SUV, the Bigster, a rugged and ambitious model designed to combine affordability with the ability to take on the great outdoors. Previewed by the striking BigBoy concept, this new SUV is the brand’s response to the rising costs facing consumers, with a design and feature set tailored for adventurers. And based on its tough, ready-for-anything looks, you might find yourself asking which mountain you’ll tackle first.
The Bigster’s bold design is an evolution of Dacia’s new styling direction, and it fits perfectly with the SUV’s robust demeanor. From the imposing grille and sleek headlight setup to the rugged boxy silhouette and durable ‘Starkle’ body cladding, the Bigster exudes confidence. Roof rails, a choice of alloy wheels ranging from 17 to 19 inches, and a raised ride height further add to the car’s off-road-ready image. Classified as a ‘C-segment SUV,’ the Bigster is a rival to popular family cars like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Toyota Corolla, but it brings its own distinct character to the segment.
Built on Renault’s CMF-B platform, the same architecture underpinning models like the Renault Clio and Dacia Sandero, the Bigster promises plenty of interior space and versatility. The roomy cabin offers seating for five adults, enhanced by features designed for comfort and practicality. These include an acoustic windscreen, thicker window glazing, improved engine soundproofing, and a class-leading 667 liters of boot space. Whether you’re heading into the city or off on an outdoor adventure, the Bigster’s interior is ready for the journey.
Under the hood, the Bigster offers three powertrain options, each with its own appeal. The entry-level model is the Hybrid 155, powered by a 1.6-liter petrol engine paired with two electric motors and a 1.4kWh battery. The setup delivers a combined 155hp, offering a balance between efficiency and performance. It’s the first time this particular hybrid system has been used in the Renault Group, setting the Bigster apart from models like the Jogger and Duster.
For those seeking a smaller yet capable engine, the TCe 140 variant features a 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbocharged engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system and a six-speed manual transmission. This version balances fuel efficiency with practicality, ideal for drivers who want a peppy and economical ride.
The top-tier model is the TCe 130 4×4, a four-wheel-drive version equipped with the same 1.2-liter turbocharged engine and mild-hybrid system. It’s designed for more adventurous drivers, with five driving modes – including auto, snow, mud/sand, off-road, and eco – to adapt to various terrains. Whether you’re navigating tricky mountain paths or taking on sandy dunes, the Bigster is equipped to handle it.
Beyond its engine options, the Bigster comes with plenty of practical features for outdoor enthusiasts. These include modular roof bars, a panoramic sunroof, and optional off-road accessories like a cargo box, tent, and a Sleep Pack for camping. Dacia’s message is clear: the Bigster is built for adventure, and you shouldn’t worry about scratches or minor knocks along the way.
Dacia offers three trim levels for the Bigster: Expression, the entry-level option; Extreme, which comes with features like hill descent control and washable interior fabrics; and Journey, the fully-loaded version with an 18-inch alloy wheels, a 10.1-inch touchscreen, powered boot, sat nav, 3D audio system, and cruise control.
David Durand, Dacia’s head of design, stated, “With All-New Bigster, we have stayed true to the intentions expressed in the Bigster Concept. Bigster is the ultimate expression of Dacia’s values and is now our brand’s flagship vehicle.”
Pricing has yet to be confirmed, but Dacia has hinted that the base model will start at under £30,000, making it an attractive option in the C-segment SUV market. Now the only question left is, which mountain are you climbing next?
