The Dacia Sandero is already more than cheap when buying a new car. However, many buyers save not only on the purchase, but also on maintenance.
Dacia stands for low prices. Regardless of whether it is a small car, SUV, van, station wagon or soon as an e-car: You will not find cheaper new cars on the German market. The Sandero small car is one of the bestsellers in the Dacia range and has been available in the third generation since this year. Time to take a close look at the second edition of the used vehicle check, which was offered between 2013 and the end of 2020.
Body and interior
When designing the Sandero II, the designers added a lot of creative creativity and value to the number I. The 4,06 meter long hatchback model does not look like a cheap home at first glance. The design language is pleasing. The “Stepway” variant turns the five-door model with off-road paneling and higher chassis into a mini-SUV, at least visually. The interior design, on the other hand, cannot deny the pressure to save. A lot of hard plastic and the absence of chi-chi characterize the interior. The covers for the vanity mirrors in the sun visors are missing and the levers for operating the optional window lifters are housed in the center console. The seats are designed for short trips. The space available in the small car is okay, the trunk has a capacity of 320 liters. If you fold down the rear seat backrests, a capacity of up to 1.200 liters is available.
Sandero models have benefited from a facelift since the beginning of 2017. Among other things, this brings modified headlights with LED daylight. The interior now has chrome-colored applications and the electric windows are located in the door frames.
Motors and drive
At the market launch there was a 1,2-liter four-cylinder with 55 kW / 75 PS, which is also available in a liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) version), a 0.9-three-cylinder turbo with 66 kW / 90 PS and a 1,5-liter -Diesel with also 90 HP to choose from. The power is transmitted to the front wheels by means of a manual five-speed gearbox. The basic gasoline engine demands patience from the driver. The standard sprint takes 14,5 seconds. Its 107 Nm also require joy in shifting. The turbo is much more lively. Even at medium speeds, it gets down to business quite powerfully and at least reaches 140 Nm. It takes 0 seconds from 100 to 11,1 km / h; its top speed of 175 km / h is 11 km / h above the top speed of the 1.2. The turbo is also more economical and is content with an average of 5,2 liters, a good liter less than the four-cylinder consumes. The diesel consumes less (3,5 liters). Top speed and acceleration value correspond to the level of the three-cylinder turbo.
With the facelift, Dacia replaced the entry-level petrol engine with a 54 kW / 73 PS strong 1,0-liter three-cylinder. With its values (Vmax: 158 km / h), 0-100 km / h: 14,2 seconds, consumption: 5,2 liters) it differs little from the data of the predecessor unit. There is no LPG variant for this engine. At the beginning of 2020, the turbo was given a more powerful expansion stage with 74 kW / 101 PS, which can bring the small car up to 181 km / h. Dacia indicates consumption with an average of 4,6 to 5,1 liters. The refresh measures also affected the diesel. Due to the adaptation to the exhaust emission standard, it only delivers 70 kW / 95 PS.
Equipment and safety
The basic version of the Sandero cost just under 7.000 euros. In view of the price, it is not surprising that the scope of comfort is limited, provided that one can speak of “comfort” in this context. In “Essentiel” there is no radio, air conditioning or electric windows. These could not be booked in addition, so that most customers immediately resorted to the higher equipment lines. "Ambiance" already comes up with central locking with remote control and electric windows. Air conditioning and radio are optionally available. The top version "Lauréate" offers almost a touch of (Dacia) luxury with a lot of chrome trim, air conditioning, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, fog lights and a height-adjustable driver's seat. If first-time owners have ticked the box for extras, leather upholstery, GPS, reversing camera or a stylish metallic paintwork are also on board. On the other hand, there are no assistance systems. The Sandero achieved four stars in the NCAP crash test. Those interested in used cars should not be confused by the names of the equipment lines. Since model year 2017 these have been called Accces, Essential and Comfort.
Quality
The good news is: The Sandero II does better than its predecessor in the TÜV general inspections. The bad news is: The TÜV inspectors still find a lot of defects and this already at the first HU. The weak points are axle suspension, lighting and brake components. Obviously, many Sandero owners don't take maintenance and care too seriously. Those interested in used cars should pay attention to a complete service booklet. In case of doubt, you can have the used vehicle checked by a workshop or an expert before signing a contract.
Conclusion
The used car portals listed older Sandero models with the 75 hp petrol engine from around 2.600 euros. Diesel are offered from around 3.500 euros. For vehicles from the facelift you have to put down around 4.000 euros. Incidentally, a new Sandero is available from 8.700 euros.