After more than 3,300 miles of real-world testing, the Dacia Bigster Journey hybrid 155 is proving that “budget-friendly” does not have to mean “feature-poor.” While the vehicle maintains the pragmatic, no-frills DNA that defines the Dacia brand, it offers a significant leap in refinement and technology compared to its predecessors.
The Value Proposition: More Than Just a Low Price Tag
The Bigster occupies an interesting niche in the increasingly crowded SUV market. By focusing on essential utility rather than luxury excess, Dacia manages to keep the price point highly competitive. In this test, the Journey trim —which sits £1,500 above the entry-level Expression model—provides the “sweet spot” for most drivers.
For a relatively small premium, owners gain essential modern comforts that transform the driving experience, including:
– A powered tailgate
– Heated seats
– A heated steering wheel
– A dual 10.1-inch screen setup (infotainment and a configurable digital dashboard)
This approach addresses a common trend in the automotive industry: as standard features become more expensive across premium brands, Dacia is capturing the “value-conscious adventurer” demographic by offering high-spec essentials at a much lower entry barrier.
Performance and Efficiency: The Hybrid Advantage
Powered by a 1.8-litre petrol hybrid system producing 155bhp, the Bigster is designed for efficiency rather than raw speed. The self-charging hybrid setup excels in mixed driving conditions, providing silent EV-only stretches that contribute to impressive fuel economy.
During our testing, the vehicle achieved an average of 57.8mpg, covering nearly 600 miles on a single 50-litre tank. While the engine can sound somewhat “agricultural” when the petrol motor kicks in to charge the battery after a period of silent electric running, the overall driving experience remains smooth, particularly on motorways.
Interior and Practicality: Where Compromise Meets Utility
The Bigster’s cabin represents a clear evolution from previous Dacia models like the Jogger. The layout is logical, stylish, and much more refined. However, the brand’s commitment to cost-effectiveness is visible in certain areas:
- Material Durability: While the cabin is well-designed, some surfaces—such as the hard plastic in the boot—are prone to scratching easily.
- Family Ergonomics: While the car offers massive space (including a 612-litre boot), some small design choices, such as hiding Isofix mounts behind zippers, can make installing child seats more cumbersome than expected.
- Tech Integration: The standard “here” navigation software is functional but can be slow to boot, though users can easily bypass this using Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
Verdict
The Dacia Bigster is a highly capable, spacious, and economical SUV that excels at delivering “just enough” luxury to remain comfortable without inflating the price. It is a vehicle built for those who prioritize space, fuel economy, and value over premium branding.
Key Specifications:
– Price: £29,440
– Powertrain: 1.8L Petrol Hybrid (155bhp)
– Efficiency: 57.8mpg
– Boot Space: 612 litres
