Dacia keeps surprising me. When I first reviewed the 2023 Dacia Duster a few years ago, it changed my perception of the brand entirely. Then I drove the updated 2025 Dacia Duster hybrid, which I rate quite highly. Now, we’re looking at an even more practical and affordable SUV for families – the Dacia Bigster.
The Bigster is, as the name suggests, bigger than the Duster. Driver and passengers enjoy more space inside, and it carries more luggage too. But starting at £25,215, is the Dacia Bigster a genuine alternative to hybrid SUVs like the Kia Sportage or Ford Kuga?
Pros
- Very efficient
- Stylish design
- Affordable
Cons
- Cheap plastics inside
- Engine lacks refinement
- Slow infotainment
2026 Dacia Bigster first impressions
key features
- New full hybrid powertrain
- Large boot and generous rear legroom
- Rugged SUV styling
- Simple, functional interior
- Four-wheel drive available
Like the others in the Dacia stable, the Bigster looks ready for adventure. Defined edges, roof rails, and protective trim around the wheel arches set this capable SUV up for off-road adventures, and the available four-wheel drive version would be up for the challenge. However, most of these will never leave the beaten track.
For those planning to stay on solid ground, the Bigster is equally fitting. A raised ride height and wide-opening doors allow easy access, and you can settle into the well-bolstered seats nicely. As mentioned, there’s plenty of leg and headroom for the driver.
How does the Dacia Bigster drive?
There are three powertrain options available on the Dacia Bigster: a front-wheel drive mild hybrid, a four-wheel drive mild hybrid, and this new front-wheel drive full hybrid (self-charging). On the road, the Dacia Bigster feels exactly as you’d expect from a large, budget-focused family SUV. Around town and on slower roads, it’s comfortable and easy to live with. The suspension deals well with poor surfaces, and it never feels unsettled over potholes or broken tarmac, which matters more day to day than outright handling ability.
However, when you ask more of it, particularly when joining faster roads, the Bigster’s limitations become clearer. The hybrid powertrain makes a lot of noise under hard acceleration, and refinement takes a noticeable hit. The engine sounds strained when pushed, and it doesn’t deliver power in a particularly smooth or satisfying way. At motorway speeds, wind noise is noticeable too, especially compared to more expensive rivals.
Dacia Duster Hybrid performance
| Engine | 1.8-litre Full Hybrid 155 |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Horsepower | 155 HP |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Fuel Economy (Combined WLTP) | 58 MPG |
| 0-62 MPH | 9.7 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 112 MPH |
Steering is light and predictable, although it lacks feedback. This is not a car that encourages you to drive aggressively. Instead, it rewards a measured approach, where comfort and efficiency take priority.
Fuel economy
Dacia claims up to 58 mpg, which always feels optimistic in real-world driving. Over my mixed route, I averaged 47.6 mpg, which is still a respectable result for a large family SUV of this size. So, while it won’t match smaller hybrids, it will keep running costs sensible for most owners.
| Combined | |
| WLTP | 58 MPG |
| Fuel Economy As Tested | 47.6 MPG |
Interior design and comfort
Inside, the Bigster makes its priorities clear. Hard plastics are everywhere, and while everything feels robust enough, it’s a long way from premium. That said, the cabin layout is straightforward, and all the main controls fall easily to hand.
Comfort is a strong point. The front seats offer good support, and there’s plenty of space for both driver and passengers. Rear legroom is generous, making the Bigster a practical option for families or anyone regularly carrying adults in the back. Visibility is also good, thanks to the upright driving position and large windows.
Technology and ease of use
The infotainment system covers the basics, but it’s not particularly quick or intuitive. Response times on the 10.1-inch touchscreen feel slow, and the interface looks dated compared to newer rivals. However, it has Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which negates those issues. Front and rear passengers will be pleased with two USB-C charging ports.
Safety
Driver assistance systems are present, although they aren’t intrusive or overly complicated. It does lack some features over other competitors, resulting in a lower Euro NCAP score, but, again, this fits the Bigster’s no-nonsense approach.
Storage and boot space
Practicality is where the Bigster really shines. The boot is large, well-shaped, and easy to load, making it ideal for family life. There’s plenty of room for pushchairs, luggage, or bulky shopping, and the wide opening helps when loading heavier items. Capacity varies slightly, depending on powertrain.
Inside the cabin, storage is sensible rather than clever, with enough space for everyday items without unnecessary gimmicks.
| Minimum Luggage Capacity | 612 Litres |
| Maximum Luggage Capacity | 1977 Litres |
Should you buy a Dacia Bigster?
The Dacia Bigster is never going to be the best SUV money can buy, but it’s honest, spacious, and excellent value — and that’s exactly why I like it. Like the Duster before it, it focuses on what people need, rather than inflating the price with standard technology many buyers don’t want.
If you’re looking for a comfortable, practical family SUV on a budget, the Bigster makes a lot of sense. It won’t impress enthusiasts, and it won’t feel luxurious, but it delivers space, efficiency, and affordability in a way few rivals currently can.
How much does a Dacia Bigster cost?
Pricing is where the Bigster makes the strongest argument for itself. It undercuts many similarly sized hybrid SUVs, while still offering a spacious interior and decent efficiency. Compared to rivals like the Kia Sportage or Ford Kuga, the Bigster represents a more affordable way into this segment, especially once optional extras are considered.
| Trim | Mild Hybrid 140 | Mild Hybrid 130 4×4 | Full Hybrid 155 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Expression | £25,215 | £27,465 | £28,190 |
| Journey | £26,765 | N/A | £29,740 |
| Extreme | £27,015 | £29,265 | £29,990 |
You can have it all, though. The Chery Tiggo 8 is one of the most affordable SUVs with seven seats and has plenty of technology as standard, and still costs less than £30,000.
FAQs
Is the Dacia Bigster any good?
The Dacia Bigster is an affordable large family SUV. It drives well around town with an efficient hybrid engine, but it groans when pushed at motorway speeds.
What is the difference between the Dacia Duster and Dacia Bigster?
The Dacia Bigster, as its name suggests, is bigger than the Duster. It gains more legroom for rear passengers, and more boot space. It also gets different engine options, including a new full hybrid.
Is the Dacia Bigster a 4×4?
Not as standard, but there are 4×4 options available on the Expression and Extreme trim levels.