The Dacia Duster, a favorite among Finnish consumers, is undergoing a notable transformation as it prepares to introduce electric automatic transmissions for its all-wheel-drive variants. The announcement has been highly anticipated, yet also met with apprehension, as it signifies a major shift in the vehicle's functionality. Traditionally reliant on manual transmissions for models with four-wheel drive, the change aims to address consumer demand for an automated driving experience without compromising the vehicle's performance.

This upgrade stems from the collaboration with Dacia's parent company Renault, which has been challenged to provide a fitting automatic transmission compatible with the existing mechanical four-wheel drive system. As manual options have dominated the market for such configurations, the desire for an automatic version has been vocal among customers. With this impending change, Dacia and Renault are bringing innovation to the SUV's drive capabilities, aligning more with modern automotive trends.

The new automatic system will feature a dual-clutch design and an electric motor, representing not only a technical upgrade for the Duster and its extended version, the Bigster, but also a response to evolving market preferences in Finland and beyond. As the automotive industry increasingly moves towards electrification, the introduction of electric automatic transmissions highlights the shift in consumer behavior and expectations for efficiency and convenience in vehicles. This transition could mark a pivotal moment for Dacia as it positions itself favorably in a competitive SUV market.