Dacia 4x4 advice

[renmure]

I’m looking to order a Bigster this weekend having waited to physically see them in showrooms and being really impressed. I’m fairly fixed on the manual mild-hybrid Extreme model because I like the 18 inch alloys and the panoramic sunroof. I’ve previously had a Duster for 4 years so am happy with the brand.

It’s a fixed cost £2300 to go for the 4x4 version and in many ways that wouldn’t be a daft option for where we stay but I’ve never given any thought to to the Dacia 4x4 system.

Anyone got any informed comments or thoughts on Dacia 4x4 stuff or anything I should ask the salesman at short notice?

[Wacky Racer]

Off topic, but as a previous (2021) Duster owner, I'm thinking about a Bigster, but I haven't actually seen one yet in the flesh,

Are they much bigger?

[renmure]

Yeah, noticeably bigger. I think all the Dealers got a showroom model and most got a test drive model this weekend which was what I was waiting for. It was an instant “like” for me when I saw one in the showroom without having to drive it.

[Tighnamara]

Duster 4 x 4, likely not driving like that but gives an idea of the 4 x 4 system

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d6fddtuALUE

Picked up a new Duster last month and went for 4 x 4, good to have option when required if in rural area / harsh winters.

[coppice]

I have a '25 Duster 4X4 Extreme . I need the 4wd for the various terrains I cross when fishing out of the way spots - slippery river banks , bumpy farm tracks and forestry commission loose surface roads. It is indomitable in all conditions I've driven it (snow, mud, floods) . with several modes (snow, mud etc) and hill descent etc . Big ground clearance and hence good wading depth , and the chunky tyres that come as standard and you've got a poundshop Defender. Recommended

[Unwize]

It looks like dacia is going to discontinue the manual mild hybrid 4x4. It is being replaced with an auto hybrid that has another motor driving the back wheels. It is already available to order in mainland Europe. Likely to be more expensive than the manual. The manual 4x4 is the only version to get independant real suspension. Based on a review on youtube it looks like the auto hybrid has a solid rear axle. Do a search for " Bigster hybrid G 150 4x4".

[renmure]

I did end up buying the 4x4 manual Bigster. It really has been a handy car and the 4x4 aspect of it has been pretty seamless leaving it in auto-mode where the car decides whether it’s 4WD or not. Being honest, even in snow in winter I’ve not appreciated any change.

[Unwize]

Only just noticed your OP was from May 2025!

[_Rodders_]

I went 2WD and all season tyres. A little bit lighter, a little bit less complicated, a little bit cheaper.

Haven't regretted it so far but then I don't do any proper off-road stuff.

[croyde]

I am really liking my Bigster 2wd Journey full Hybrid. Great all round vehicle, comfy on long trips and sips petrol.

I sold my Alpine back to the dealer last summer with the plan of going carless for the first time since 18 years old, I'm now 63, but ........

Whilst we were waiting on paperwork, I sat in the Bigster that they had on display and I was smitten.

I lasted 2 weeks without a car and then found a new Bigster in stock at another dealers with a little discount.

Certainly nowhere as cheap as my original Duster Mk 2 bought in 2021 for £10.5k but I much prefer it's rugged good looks compared to the pansy equivalents from other manufacturers.

[Unwize]

I have also ordered a hybrid Journey because we wanted an auto. Would have prefered 18" wheels but strangely the extreme doesnt have adjustable lumbar support and we werent sure about the fabric on the extreme seats. Annoyingly the Journey comes with 18" wheels as standard in mainland Europe, the 19" are optional. At least we could get a factory fit spare wheel, most other brands hybrids dont offer one.

[croyde]

Yep, I wanted 18s too. Wheel sizes on cars have got ridiculous and the 19s on mine, along with having alloys, make it not to good for bumping over kerbs

Still, maybe it's the 19s that help with the handling at motorway speeds. My old Dacia Duster felt too bouncy.

I bought a spare wheel/tyre from The Wheel Shop for £160 including the jack and tool bar. Fitted perfectly under the boot floor.

Just be aware, as I've heard that the Dacia spare doesn't fit and salespeople say just stick it in the boot. It will take up so much space.

Not sure why people say it doesn't fit. Maybe it's full-size. My spare is a temporary up to 50mph one.

Edited by croyde on Monday 25th May 18:34