Dacia Sandero Stepway: A Budget-Friendly Supermini with Surprising Features
Affordable Mobility for the Working Class
Dacia, a manufacturer dedicated to keeping the working class mobile, offers the Dacia Sandero Stepway at an incredibly low price of £13,795. This factory-fresh supermini is not a cheaply made car but a modern and comfortable compact hatchback that can accommodate up to five people. In fact, Renault is confident enough in the Sandero’s quality that they are willing to put their name on its parts.
Dacia’s Refreshing Rejection of Driver Assistance Technology
Unlike many other car manufacturers, Dacia does not feel compelled to include expensive and often unnecessary driver assistance technology in their vehicles. They prioritize affordability over unnecessary features that may not meet customers’ expectations. This refusal to conform to Euro NCAP’s recommendations is a testament to Dacia’s commitment to the working class.
Impressive Features at an Unbeatable Price
While the base price of the Dacia Sandero Stepway is already incredibly low, there is an even more affordable option available. By forgoing the extra ride height, plastic body trim, and roof rails, buyers can get the Expression trim level for just £14,795. This trim level includes an 8.0-inch touchscreen, rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, air conditioning, and a Bluetooth-equipped four-speaker stereo. Additionally, the Expression trim level has better resale value, making it £7 per month cheaper in finance payments compared to the Comfort trim level.
Competition from Within the Renault Family
One potential drawback of choosing the Sandero Stepway over other options is the availability of a 0% APR finance deal on the entry-level Renault Clio. The Clio shares the same engine and gearbox as the Sandero Stepway, along with similar standard equipment. This deal, priced at just £142 per month, may make the Clio a more appealing choice for some buyers. However, it’s worth noting that the Sandero Stepway offers its own unique advantages, including a lower overall price and a distinctive design.
Interior Comfort and Design Considerations
While the interior of the Sandero Stepway offers fundamental features like adjustable seats, ample space for the driver and passengers, and Apple CarPlay compatibility, it falls short in terms of tactile quality. The plastics used in the cabin are not as tactilely pleasing as those found in more high-end vehicles. Additionally, the touchscreen has a matte finish that can feel strange to the touch. However, the recent design refresh makes the Sandero Stepway look slightly more upmarket, and its 4×4 appearance may attract some buyers who appreciate its rugged look.
Distinctive Driving Experience
Despite sharing the same mechanical components as the Clio, the Sandero Stepway has a noticeably different driving experience. Its softer suspension setup and thicker-walled tires give it a more comfortable ride, but it lacks the same level of dynamic cornering ability found in the Clio. It’s important to note that it’s still early days for the Sandero Stepway, and further evaluation on long motorway trips will provide a better understanding of its overall performance.
A Surprisingly Rudimentary Sibling
Comparing the Sandero Stepway to its sibling, the Renault Clio, reveals a noticeable difference in refinement. Despite being similarly priced, the Dacia feels more rudimentary and basic in comparison. Dacia’s ability to build affordable cars has clearly influenced their parent company’s approach to creating budget-friendly vehicles.
In conclusion, the Dacia Sandero Stepway offers a compelling option for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize affordability without sacrificing modern features. While it may not offer the same level of refinement as its more expensive counterparts, the Sandero Stepway provides a comfortable and stylish driving experience at an unbeatable price.
