Dacia is expanding its electrified lineup with the introduction of a hybrid powertrain option for the Sandero and Sandero Stepway models. These changes, along with interior and safety upgrades, represent a significant step towards the brand’s commitment to electrification while maintaining affordability.
New Hybrid Powertrain Details
The updated Sandero and Stepway will be powered by Dacia’s 155 Hybrid powertrain. This system combines a 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and starter generator, utilizing a small 1.4kWh battery. The hybrid setup allows for up to 80% engine-off driving in urban environments, increasing efficiency without sacrificing usability.
The combined output of the hybrid system is 153bhp, a substantial increase from the non-hybrid Sandero’s 100bhp. While the hybrid offers more power, the standard three-cylinder petrol engine still delivers greater torque at 200Nm versus the hybrid’s 170Nm. Performance is expected to improve, with the larger Jogger model reaching 62mph in 9 seconds with the same powertrain – 0.7 seconds faster than its pure-ICE counterpart.
Efficiency and Pricing
The hybrid powertrain delivers notable efficiency gains. Based on the Jogger model, the Sandero hybrid is projected to achieve approximately 61.4mpg and a CO2 rating of 104g/km, an 8.4mpg improvement and 17g/km reduction over the current combustion engine.
Buyers can expect to pay roughly £3,000 more for the hybrid option, in line with the price difference observed in the Jogger lineup. This makes hybrid technology more accessible to a broader range of consumers while still providing a cost-effective alternative to fully electric vehicles.
Other Updates
Dacia has also implemented minor styling and feature upgrades. Stepway models now feature exterior cladding made from 20% recycled polymer (Starkle), reducing the car’s carbon footprint and simplifying the recycling process. Upper-level trims gain automatic headlights, a multi-view camera system, and power-folding door mirrors.
Additionally, driver information displays receive updated graphics, and all updated models meet the latest EU safety standards, including driver attention alert and autonomous emergency braking.
The hybrid Sandero and Stepway will improve fuel efficiency and emissions while maintaining Dacia’s reputation for affordability. These changes show that electrification doesn’t have to come at a premium, making eco-friendly driving options more available to a wider range of consumers.
