Britain's best affordable car revealed as ‘fashionable and popular' SUV that ‘give you everything you need'
The Dacia Duster has taken the title of Best Value Car at the 2025 Autocar Awards, impressing judges with its bold looks, practicality, and unbeatable price tag.
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Praised as both 'fashionable and popular', the Duster is winning over British drivers by delivering 'everything you need' – and nothing you don't.
Autocar's expert panel said the SUV stood out in a market full of rising prices, thanks to its smart design, solid build and great value.
It might not be the cheapest car on sale – or even the cheapest Dacia – but it offers more for your money than many rivals.
Editor Mark Tisshaw said: 'The Dacia Duster capitalises on the seemingly obvious idea of offering buyers everything they need, nothing they don't, and just enough of the things they want.'
Far from a bare-bones motor, the Duster has a chunky, confident look with big wheels and an upright stance that leans into its off-roader image.
Inside, the dashboard and windscreen design even give off a hint of Land Rover Defender.
It comes in four trims – Essential, Expression, Journey and Extreme – with prices starting from just £19,380.
There are also three powertrains to choose from, including a hybrid, plus a proper 4x4 option for those needing real off-road ability.
Autocar's judges were especially impressed by the Duster's practicality and generous standard kit.
Features like touchscreen infotainment, parking sensors, and air-con come as standard on many models – a rarity at this price point.
Inside Dacia's £1m desert buggy taking on big boys at the Dakar Rally – with juicy V6 engine and aerospace roll cage
Dacia's UK Brand Director, Luke Broad, said: 'Every time the Duster wins an award, it's not just for its incredible value for money, but also for its style and practical design.
We give customers everything they need, and nothing they don't, at the very best price.'
For drivers who want something tough, roomy and affordable, the Duster is a rare find.
The 4x4 version adds 217mm of ground clearance and a clever Terrain Control system with five modes to handle anything from muddy tracks to icy roads.
Since launching in the UK in 2013, Dacia has sold over 260,000 cars, with the Duster being one of the brand's biggest hits.
It's now the best-selling SUV to private buyers in Europe since 2018 – and one of the most trusted names in value motoring.
In a world of rising car prices and overly complicated tech, the Dacia Duster keeps things simple – but never basic.
And with the 2025 Best Value Car award under its belt, it's official: Britain's top affordable SUV really does give you everything you need.
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