UK drive: Dacia’s Sandero Stepway is a rugged cut above its standard sibling
Small SUVs are all the rage – but why not simple add SUV design cues onto an existing hatchback? That’s the route Dacia has taken with the Sandero Stepway. Tom Wiltshire grabs the keys to a mid-spec diesel model to see what it’s like
What is it?
What’s new?
What’s under the bonnet?
Though the standard Sandero gets a choice of three engines, the entry-level 1.0-litre is ditched in the slightly heavier Stepway – so you’re limited to just a 0.9-litre turbocharged petrol or a 1.5-litre diesel. Our test car has the latter, and it’s a remarkably good fit for the Sandero.
With the move back towards petrol power, it’s easy to forget just how pleasant a torquey diesel can be in city driving conditions. The Stepway’s is the same dCi unit featured across the Renault-Nissan range, and despite the Dacia’s lack of sound deadening it’s pretty smooth and refined, as well as very efficient.
Both engines are mated to a five-speed gearbox, which despite its comically long shifter has a positive and pleasing action. The ratios are spaced rather too close together to make the most of the diesel engine, though.
What’s it like to drive?
How does it look?
What’s it like inside?
What’s the spec like?
Verdict
Dacia’s no-nonsense approach to bargain motoring is really well appreciated in the sector, and even in relatively plush Stepway form it remains one of the best value-for-money options around. However, we don’t think the extra is worth coughing up for over the standard Sandero. Our car’s £11,190 price tag would buy you the hatchback in a higher trim level – a more valuable investment in our eyes. If you really do want a rugged Dacia, buy a Duster.
