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Used test: Dacia Duster vs Suzuki Ignis verdict
If you're in the market for a four-wheel-drive SUV that won't break the bank, both the Duster and the Ignis fit the bill – but which is best? Read on to find out...
Our verdict
The Dacia Duster is an uncomplicated 4x4 that’s big and butch enough to satisfy those after a workhorse for what is a very decent used price. It might not seem like quite so much of the bargain a new one would be, but it’s still many thousands of pounds less than any other ‘proper’ SUV of this age. Added to that, its no-nonsense, almost Tonka-toy-like styling is still appealing, it’s pretty useful off road and it’s relatively roomy inside.
But for all that, it’s ultimately outclassed by the smaller Suzuki Ignis, which is far better to drive on the road and also much better equipped. It looks great, too, and it’s a cheerful car that’s fantastically cheap to own and just as at home in town as it is on a dirt track. Okay, so the Duster has a rugged appeal, but it can’t match the Ignis’s breadth of abilities. It’s the Suzuki we’d recommend here.
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1st – Suzuki Ignis
For Cheaper to run; more standard equipment; great fun to drive
Against Buzzy on the motorway; firmer ride than the Duster; only four seats in this trim
Verdict A characterful and talented car both on and off road, and the most appealing
What Car? rating 4 stars out of 5
Read our full used Suzuki Ignis review >>
Buy a used Suzuki Ignis with What Car? >>
2nd – Dacia Duster
For Roomy interior; capable off road; punchy engine
Against Lots of body roll; vague steering; hard work to drive in town
Verdict Good value, but not great to drive and short on safety kit
What Car? rating 3 stars out of 5
Read our full used Dacia Duster review >>
Buy a used Dacia Duster with What Car? >>
Specifications: Dacia Duster
Engine size 1.2-litre petrol
Power 124bhp
Torque 151lb ft
0-60mph 10.4sec
Top speed 110mph
Fuel economy 44.1mpg (official NEDC average)
CO2 emissions 145g/km
Specifications: Suzuki Ignis
Engine size 1.2-litre petrol
Power 89bhp
Torque 88lb ft
0-60mph 11.2sec
Top speed 106mph
Fuel economy 60.1mpg (official NEDC average)
CO2 emissions 106g/km
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