1st DACIA SANDERO
Newcomer retains basic appeal of model it replaces, and has the edge on costs, so it takes victory
AT a glance, you’ll struggle to spot the updates to the Dacia Sandero. The tight margins at this budget end of the market mean any tweaks have been minimal in order to keep costs in check.
Still, the revised headlamps with LED running lights look smart, as do the 3D effect tail-lights. Inside, there’s a new soft-touch four-spoke steering wheel and some satin-finish trim inserts, but it still feels more functional and low-rent than the Ford.
Under the skin, the Sandero remains unchanged. This means you get a structure related to that of the second-generation Renault Clio, which made its debut in 1998. The engine line-up is also familiar, with the exception of the naturally aspirated 74bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol that replaces the decades-old 1. 2-litre. However, the turbocharged 0.9-litre TCE tested here is still the pick of the bunch; not only is it more powerful than the new unit, it also emits less CO2 and claims stronger economy.
At the track, the Sandero sprinted from 0-60mph in a sprightly 10.6 seconds, which was a full 1.5 seconds faster than the Ka+. The Dacia extended its advantage during our in-gear tests, where it went from 50-70mph in fifth 4.1 seconds faster, with a time of 13.4 seconds.
The Sandero immediately feels more muscular than its rival on the road, too. It’s not as refined and the power delivery is a little jerky at low speeds, but once the revs rise above 2,500rpm, the thrummy three-cylinder unit pulls strongly.
However, while the Dacia comfortably beats the Ford in a straight line, its chassis lags a little way behind. There’s plenty of grip and the Sandero always remains safe and predictable, but the weighty steering suffers from kickback over bumps, while body movements aren’t as well controlled.
On the plus side, the soft suspension set-up allows the Dacia to soak up bumps and potholes with surprising suppleness, while the tall top gear helps make light work of motorways. There’s some wind noise and a distant hum from the engine, but the car is a capable long-distance cruiser.
Around town, the Sandero’s notchy gearshift and occasionally stuttering power delivery take some getting used to, but the large windows and raised driving position make it easy to place. There’s decent space up front, plus plenty of handy storage. It’s a little more cramped in the rear, but this is partly offset by the generous 320-litre boot.
And while our Ambiance-spec car looks a little basic on its steel wheels, it gets all the essentials, such as air-conditioning, Bluetooth, central locking and electric front windows.