Can the Affordable Dacia Duster Outperform the Toyota Land Cruiser Off-Road? | Carscoops

      Watch an unusual off-road competition featuring two SUVs with a significant price disparity.

      6 hours ago

      by Thanos Pappas

      Carwow pitted the Dacia Duster against the Toyota Land Cruiser in a series of off-road challenges.

      The budget-friendly Duster is priced three times lower than the larger and more robust Land Cruiser.

      Despite the price differences, the Duster performed admirably, benefitting from its lighter weight and compact dimensions.

      One of the Dacia Duster’s key attractions is its status as one of the most affordable SUVs available in Europe. However, don’t be misled by its price, as it is also a strong competitor in its segment. So, can it compete with a pricier, larger off-roading vehicle like the iconic Toyota Land Cruiser? Thanks to Carwow, we now have an answer, which might surprise you.

      A Contest of Cost and Capability

      For this unique comparison, the team selected the 4×4 variant of the Dacia Duster, priced at a budget-friendly £23,550 ($30,400) in the UK. In contrast, the diesel-powered Land Cruiser is over three times more expensive, starting at £74,995 ($96,800). This creates a significant price gap, but how do they stack up performance-wise?

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      It turns out the Duster has some advantages. Despite the considerable price difference, the Dacia is significantly lighter, weighing in at just 1,390 kg (3,064 lbs), whereas the Land Cruiser tips the scales at a hefty 2,335 kg (5,148 lbs). Furthermore, the Duster has slightly greater ground clearance (217 mm/8.5 inches compared to 205 mm/8.1 inches) and a tighter turning radius due to its smaller size. It’s evident that this compact SUV is more than just an attractive option.

      However, in terms of power, the Duster cannot compete with the Toyota Land Cruiser’s 2.8-liter turbodiesel engine, which produces 201 hp (150 kW). This is more than double the Duster’s 1.2-liter mild-hybrid turbo engine’s output of 128 hp (96 kW). The Toyota also features superior suspension, a full range of off-road technologies, including center and rear differential locks, low-range gearing, multiple off-road modes, and all-terrain tires, making it a more advanced vehicle for tackling difficult terrain.

      Off-Road Trials: Surprising Findings

      So, how did these two actually perform in real conditions? The Carwow team subjected them to a demanding series of tests, including a slippery hill drag race, a narrow off-road course, a steep descent, and various muddy, uneven terrains to navigate.

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      Despite the advantages of the Toyota, the Dacia showed remarkable resilience and secured a few victories. Its lighter weight and compact build allowed it to navigate surprisingly effectively, though its suspension struggled to provide a smooth ride on rough surfaces.

      And The Outcome Is…

      Ultimately, while the Dacia Duster showcased a commendable performance, the Toyota Land Cruiser emerged victorious. It remains the clear leader in serious off-roading and overlanding capabilities. The downside? The price tag. The Land Cruiser is simply too costly for most European consumers, making the Duster a clear choice for those looking to explore trails without emptying their wallet.

      However, there is optimism on the horizon for those on a budget caught between the two options. Toyota is reportedly preparing the much-anticipated Land Cruiser FJ, expected to debut this year, which aims to deliver premium off-road performance at a more reasonable price point than its larger counterpart.

      Screenshots: Carwow / YouTube