Cars

LPG helps Dacia go further - and cost less

The Dacia Duster is one of the models available with a bi-fuel LPG and petrol option
The Dacia Duster is one of the models available with a bi-fuel LPG and petrol option

VALUE-FOR-MONEY brand Dacia has become the first manufacturer to offer LPG, or liquid petroleum gas, versions across its range.

The LPG versions of the Duster, Sandero and Logan use a 1.0-litre turbocharged dual-fuel powertrain, capable of running on petrol or LPG.

The LPG tanks is mounted in the boot in place of the spare wheel. Using both fuel sources gives a combined range of more than 620 miles, with reduced CO2 emissions and increased torque when running on LPG.

LPG is increasingly popular in Europe - not least because it is around half the price of petrol - and although its availability is limited in Northern Ireland, Dacia is obviously hopeful for greater uptake.

Dacia reckons that owners could save almost £600 on their annual fuel bill.

Servicing and maintenance intervals identical to standard petrol models with the same three-year, 60,000-mile warranty.

The bi-fuel cars look identical to their petrol and diesel counterparts, though behind the fuel flap there are two fillers rather than one.

A Sandero bi-fuel starts from just £9,145, Logan from £11,095 and Duster from £13,195.

Two caps lie behind the Dacia bi-fuel's fuel flap
Two caps lie behind the Dacia bi-fuel's fuel flap
Dacia Bi-fuel
Dacia Bi-fuel