With the Dacia Sandero providing customers with the cheapest option on sale, the Romanian brand decided to mix it with inspiration from the most in-demand segment – the SUV market.
So Dacia came up with this, the Sandero Stepway, which offers a more rugged appearance and a raised ride height – but is still remarkably cheap.
We take a brief look at the model here…
What power options are there?
Customers have the choice of three engines – two petrol and one diesel. The entry-level petrol is the SCe 75 – a naturally-aspirated 1.0-litre unit that develops 74bhp – while the TCe 90 is a turbocharged 0.9-litre engine developing 88bhp and is the best-performing engine in the range.
The diesel option is a 1.5-litre, four-cylinder unit developing 93bhp and 220Nm of torque, which allows for better fuel efficiency but a lower top speed and comparative performance. Customers can expect to return close to 60mpg with this unit under the bonnet.
What trim levels are available?
Dacia currently offers the Sandero Stepway in just two specifications – Essential and Comfort. Models from the brand are known for providing customers with the minimal amount of kit, and the Stepway Essential is no different. It features engine stop & start, front fog lights, manual air conditioning, Bluetooth for the media system, DAB radio, USB/Aux input, electric front windows and that’s about it. Prices start from £8,995.
On the Comfort model, Dacia adds a seven-inch infotainment display that offers satellite navigation, smartphone capability through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Bluetooth hands-free, cruise control with speed limiter, rear parking sensors, seven-function trip computer and electric rear windows. The Comfort option starts from £10,995.
All of that joins LED daytime running lights, roof rails, tinted windows, black and chrome detailing and split-folding rear seats. The only real customisation is which colour you go for, with customers able to choose from six hues.
See Available Sandero Stepway deals
How does it compare to the standard model?
The Stepway does have some cosmetic differences to its more conventional hatchback partner – but there isn’t much to split the two. Pricing is in favour of the standard Sandero, which starts from £6,995, while the Stepway option comes with an increased ride height, chunkier styling and the SUV character that a lot of people are after at the moment. They are as practical as each other and come with predominantly the same equipment – so it’s really down to which one you prefer the looks of.
