Dacia, Renault’s sister brand, has introduced the Duster “Soul of Dakar” edition, a special one-off show car celebrating its participation in the upcoming Dakar Rally. While this edition is currently a unique showcase, Dacia’s CEO has hinted at the possibility of similar models making their way to showrooms.
Inspired by Dakar Adventure
The “Soul of Dakar” edition features a striking black, grey, and orange livery inspired by the Dacia Sandrider, which will compete in the next Dakar Rally. Enhancing its rugged appeal, the Duster is equipped with a custom roof rack that includes a waterproof bag, a cargo box, and a shovel, catering to adventurers tackling challenging terrains.
Inside, the cabin is designed with practicality in mind, offering special hooks for securing devices like smartphones and tablets, emphasizing functionality for explorers on the go.
Powertrain and Features
Under the hood, the special edition retains its standard setup: a 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine producing 128hp, paired with a six-speed manual transmission and an electric all-wheel-drive system. While there are no mechanical changes, the aesthetic and functional upgrades set the “Soul of Dakar” apart.
Future Possibilities
Although marketed as a one-off concept, Dacia CEO Denis Le Vot has suggested this could pave the way for a series of Dakar-inspired models. “Perhaps we can incorporate elements of the Dakar car into limited-edition models,” he remarked, hinting at a more adventurous direction for the brand.
Duster’s Return to India
Closer to home, Renault India has confirmed plans to bring the Duster back in 2025, with a Nissan counterpart set to follow. This reintroduction promises to rejuvenate the brand’s presence in the competitive SUV market.
Whether as a standalone concept or the precursor to a rugged lineup, the “Soul of Dakar” highlights Dacia’s adventurous spirit and connection to one of the world’s most iconic rallies.
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