The next time Top Gear’s James May exclaims ‘great news!’ about a Dacia, he might just mean it.

The Dacia Duster concept - one of the Geneva Motor Show’s more noteworthy reveals this year - is reportedly headed for production, with a 2010 launch on the cards.

The Romanian marque - a subsidiary of French giant Renault - will likely unveil the production version of the stylish SUV at next year’s Geneva Show.

Two-wheel and four-wheel drive platforms as well as manual and automatic transmission options are part of the Duster offering.

It is believed the production Duster may retain the concept vehicle’s clever reconfigurable seating setup, which allows drivers to reposition the seats in a variety of ways depending upon the passengers and the use.

While it’s early days yet, the car is expected to be launched with a 1.5 litre dCi engine producing 76kW (103hp) and a 1.6 litre petrol unit putting out 78kW (105kW) under the bonnet.

Torque figures are not mentioned, but expect the diesel to excel in this department.

A 2.0 litre petrol turbo engine is also a possibility after launch and would generate in the vicinity of 127kW (170hp).

To support the effort, the Romanian Government has said it will chip in 10 percent of the Dacia Duster’s €100 million (almost AUD $200 million) development cost.

It’s unlikely we’ll see the Duster in Australia (unless, perhaps, badged as a Renault?), but we’ll keep an eye out for any further information as it becomes available.

GALLERY » Dacia Duster Concept