We’ve been in Paris to meet the refreshed Dacia Sandero (both streetway and stepway) and Jogger, the 7-seater “cross-MPV” with a lot of news in terms of design and, above all, powertrain.
Le’ts talk about them!
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Sandero with Hybrid Engine and 155 Horsepower
The Sandero has been a major success in the European market, though it has struggled to gain the same traction in Denmark. Dacia now aims to make the Sandero even better. The model now comes with an all-new 1.8-liter hybrid engine producing 155 hp, which has also been introduced in the Renault Clio and Dacia Bigster.
This makes it both the fastest and most fuel-efficient Sandero to date. Dacia emphasizes that the car will run on electric power most of the time.
The downside is that the Sandero Hybrid will only be launched at the end of 2026. Until then, the Sandero is available with the same engine program as before: two 1.0-liter petrol turbo engines with 100 and 110 hp respectively, as well as a 65 hp 1.0-liter naturally aspirated engine. Except for the 65 hp base model, the engines are paired with a 6-speed manual transmission. Automatic transmission is now reserved exclusively for the hybrid version.
Engine Options for Dacia Sandero
- 1.0 SCe – 65 hp
- 1.0 TCe – 100 hp
- 1.0 TCe – 110 hp
- 1.8 Hybrid – 155 hp (also available for Jogger)
What changes outside
The design changes are discreet, but the new taillights are the most noticeable update at the rear. The Sandero remains available in a Stepway version, which offers increased ground clearance and a more robust SUV-like appearance. The Jogger, essentially the MPV version of the Sandero, also adds the new 155 hp hybrid engine, together with the other powertrain options. It replaces the previous 1.6-liter hybrid with 140 hp and becomes one of the most affordable seven-seater hybrids on the market.
The most striking design update is the new T-shaped LED light signature featured on both the front and rear lights. The headlights are integrated with an updated grille featuring a line of white “pixel dots,” giving the front a more modern look. The taillights reinforce the Jogger’s robust design as they follow the shape of the tailgate.
Both Sandero Stepway and Jogger also feature new protective elements in Starkle, already used on Duster and Bigster. Starkle an innovative material made with 20% recycled plastic, reducing CO2 emissions and making the cars more resistant to scratches. New wheels, hubcaps, and a shark-fin antenna (standard from Expression trim) as well as new colors such as metallic Amber Yellow and Sandstone complete the facelift.
A new infotainment “inspired by Bigster”
Inside, the updates are modest but noticeable. New T-shaped air vents and durable fabric seats in black, blue, or denim blue depending on trim level are introduced. The Extreme versions of the Sandero Stepway and Jogger retain the popular washable TEP-microcloud seats in green and black.
A new steering wheel has been added, and a major highlight is the E-Shifter gear selector in the automatic models. The design follows the style already seen in newer Dacia models such as the Bigster and Duster. Dacia’s practical YouClip system is also introduced, allowing the addition of accessories such as lights or cup holders in the cabin.
The infotainment screen has grown from 8 to 10 inches and supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto (not standard on all versions). The Sandero now also comes with digital instruments as standard, along with USB-C ports replacing the older USB type. A wireless smartphone charger is another major update available in both the Sandero and Jogger.
Safety and Comfort Upgrades
Safety has been improved with the following features:
- Automatic emergency braking detecting cars, pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists
- Driver attention monitoring
- “My Safety” button for easy customization of driver assistance systems
- Automatic headlights
- Multiview camera
- Electrically foldable side mirrors
All these features are bundled in the optional Driving Pack.
Dacia Strengthens its Position
With over 9 million vehicles sold since 2004 and presence in 44 countries, Dacia remains one of Europe’s most successful car brands. The Sandero continues to be the best-selling car in Europe, while the Jogger has established itself as a practical and versatile family car in the C-segment.
The question remains whether the Sandero and Jogger will manage to gain a foothold in the Danish market, where the Sandero not only has to compete against cars like the Suzuki Swift and Skoda Fabia, but also against the growing wave of new, affordable electric cars that are putting pressure on the market for small petrol and hybrid vehicles.
