Dacia Sandero Review, Specs & Performance

Overview of the Dacia Sandero

ENGINES AND PERFORMANCE FOR THE DACIA SANDERO

The contract hire Dacia Sandero is a supermini that features a 1.0-litre petrol engine with three-cylinders and two outputs. It's not the quickest in its segment but the engines offer good everyday performance and fuel economy.

The entry-level engine produces 65hp and returns 54 mpg, and emissions of 120g/km. The alternative is a turbocharged unit producing 90hp for better performance and this uses a six-speed manual gearbox.

There's also, unusually, a bi-fuel model so drivers can use LPG and there's a 40-litre tank for this fuel, alongside the 50-litre petrol tank. The bi-fuel offering means the Sandero will deliver a range of more than 800 miles and LPG is cheaper than petrol to run on. This engine also offers more power with 100hp and the six-speed gearbox is a smooth performer when motorway cruising.

EQUIPMENT AND HANDLING FOR THE DACIA SANDERO

First things first, you should dispel any thoughts that the Dacia Sandero car leasing range offers a poor driving experience and is a poor-quality car - it is neither of those things. The latest model for 2021 is a much better offering than the model it replaces with five doors and a good-size boot.

The entry-level model does skimp on equipment, while the Essential trim offers air-conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, DAB radio and cruise control. The Comfort model is the range-topper with an 8.0-inch infotainment display, keyless entry and a rearview camera. Drivers also get rear parking sensors, a reversing camera and automatic wipers and lights.

On the move, the Sandero offers light steering and there's good progress from the engines. The entry-level engine is more suitable for driving around town, while the more powerful offering is a sound performer on motorways. The chassis also soaks up bumps and deals with winding country roads effectively.

There's a good list of safety equipment including autonomous emergency braking, though the Sandero only has a two-star safety rating under the new rules - with more equipment it would do better. Everything feels solid and well put together, however.

There are tough plastics designed for hard-wearing in the cabin, but the overall impression is of a more expensive vehicle. The design is impressive and there's good visibility from the driver's seat and rear seat passengers also have good legroom.

Essentially, the Dacia Sandero will meet most drivers' needs - especially those who want a functional and practical family car that is rewarding to drive.