What's the news?
First orders for the Duster crossover are yet to be fulfilled in the UK but Dacia has already announced a second model in its line-up. Unveiled at the Paris Motor Show the Sandero supermini will take on the best-selling Ford Fiesta when it arrives early next year. Prices are yet to be confirmed but are expected to start from £7,000.
Exterior
There is more than a touch of current (i.e. outgoing) generation Renault Clio about the styling of the Sandero but with a requisite amount of Balkan ruggedness. The front end apes that of the Duster with chunky wheel arches adding to the distinctive look.
Interior
As final trim and specification have yet to be finalised there are few details regarding the Sandero's interior. Dacia does say that the cabin will be amongst the most spacious in its class with boot space of 320 litres (expanding to 1,200 litres with seats down) - ahead of that offered by the current class leader.
Mechanicals
As it is based on the same platform as the Duster we expect the 90hp dCi diesel engine to be carried over, where it will be joined by Renault's latest three-cylinder TCe 90 and 1.2-litre 16v petrol engines.
Anything else?
In addition to the standard Sandero, Dacia will also introduce a mini-crossover called the Sandero Stepway. Unveiled alongside the hatchback in Paris the Stepway rides 40mm higher and has a unique look thanks to a revised front end, flared arches, skid plates and roof rails. The Stepway is expected to arrive in Spring.
Paul Healy - 3 Oct 2012