This Romanian conversion from Romturingia turns the budget-friendly Duster SUV into a double-cab pickup with a bed that’s comically tiny at 41.3 inches long and 39.4 inches wide, yet it hauls 948 pounds like a champ. Powered by the Duster’s Hybrid 140 system, it’s a quirky hybrid truck exclusive to Romania, starting around €31,000. As a truck nut who’s squeezed gear into compact beds and dreamed of affordable AWD haulers, this Duster Pick-Up feels like a fun fever dream. Let’s explore its conversion, specs, and why I’d love to see it stateside.
From SUV to Pick-Up: Romturingia’s Clever Romanian Hack
Romturingia’s been at this since the 2017 Duster gen, but the 2025 version shares the Nissan Kicks platform and keeps the rear doors for a double-cab setup. Instead of chopping the roof and adding a long bed like the old one, they just removed the roof and turned the hatch into a tailgate, creating a compact cargo area. It’s not for massive loads—think tools, bikes, or a few bags of mulch—but that 948-pound payload is solid for a small SUV-truck. The bed’s 41.3 inches long, so tall items fit better than wide ones, and it’s got that Duster’s 8.8 inches of ground clearance for light off-road jaunts. It’s a practical twist for urban tradesmen or weekend warriors in tight spaces, and at €31,000, it’s a steal compared to pricier conversions.
Powertrain Punch: Hybrid 140 for Efficient Hauling
The Duster Pick-Up borrows the Duster’s Hybrid 140 setup: a 1.6L I4 (94 hp) with two electric motors (one as starter-generator, the other 49 hp on the gearbox), combining for 140 hp total. It’s AWD standard, making it a capable all-weather hauler. The hybrid system smooths out the ride, with electric assist for city starts and gas for longer pulls. It’s not a speed demon, but it’s efficient and reliable, perfect for Romania’s mix of highways and backroads. The double-cab keeps passenger space intact, so you can haul crew and cargo without compromise.
Why It’s Rad: Compact Utility with Dacia Charm
What makes the Duster Pick-Up rad is its no-nonsense approach—it’s not trying to be a full-size truck; it’s a clever SUV hack for folks who need a bit more bed space without the bulk. The tiny bed’s a conversation starter, but that 948-pound payload means it’s useful for light duties, and the AWD grip adds versatility. It’s a throwback to old-school conversions like the El Camino, but with modern hybrid tech. If Nissan brought a Kicks version to the U.S., it could rival the Maverick, but for now, it’s a Romanian exclusive that’s got me wishing for a road trip there.
A Fun, Functional Truck for Tight Spots
The Duster Pick-Up is the quirky rig I didn’t know I needed—compact, capable, and full of character. At €31,000, it’s a budget win for Romania’s tradesmen, and the hybrid power makes it green without fuss. I’d love a U.S. version to see if that bed’s too small for American gear. What do you think—charming or too tiny? Share below; I’m curious from fellow truck oddity lovers!
Source-motortrend
