All-new Dacia Duster wins its first UK award as Auto Express names it ‘Small SUV of the Year’

The All-New Dacia Duster has continued the winning ways of its formidable predecessor, scooping the trophy for ‘Small SUV of the Year’ at the Auto Express New Car Awards 2024.

It is the first UK industry award to be given on the third generation of the iconic Duster with the highly coveted accolade coming several months before the robustly-styled SUV officially arrives in the brand’s showrooms later this year.

Additionally, the Dacia Jogger was also recognised at the annual awards, being ‘Highly Commended’ in the ‘Family Car’ and ‘Affordable Hybrid’ categories. This year’s success also follows Dacia picking up several awards at the 2023 ceremony.

The Auto Express judges named the newest Duster as the best small SUV available after being won over by how it builds on the icon’s legacy. They are not the only ones to be impressed too, with more than 15,000 UK car buyers having already registered their interest in the All-New Duster since early details were announced last year.

Paul Barker, Editor, Auto Express, explained why the renowned outlet chose to award the All-New Duster: “The new Dacia Duster takes everything that we loved about the old one, and makes it better. It looks even more strong and chunky, it’s more efficient and practical than ever and all wrapped up in a very affordable package. Everything we look for in a great small SUV.”

Luke Broad, Dacia Brand Director for the UK, added: “Even before the official UK launch the All-New Duster is adding to the model’s award-winning legacy. New and existing Duster fans will have already seen the positive reviews, but this award goes a step further and officially tells anyone who’s considering the All-New Duster that as soon as it arrives on our shores, it will be the best small SUV in the UK.”  

The Auto Express New Car Awards celebrate the best in the business across a wide array of categories, highlighting the most impressive cars available over the entire automotive landscape. The winners are determined by the things that are important to car buyers, helping people choose the right car for them regardless of budgets and requirements. 

The All-New Duster debuts with a tougher, more assertive design and is based on the innovative CMF-B platform. As well as enhancing the amount of space for passengers and luggage, all without making the new generation version any longer than the previous Duster, the platform also enables the All-New Duster to be offered with electrified powertrains using mild-hybrid and full-hybrid technologies.

To go with its bolder, more robust style, the All-New Duster is even more capable than before. The 4×4 version takes the model’s off-road capabilities to new heights, being the best in the non-expert 4×4 market (determined by those without a low-range transmission) and offering more ground clearance than its rivals.

A new, more digitally-connected interior, plus the use of tougher and more sustainable materials throughout, complete the appeal of the All-New Duster.