Dacia Jogger Review
Read Caroline's Dacia Jogger review for everything you need to know about buying Dacia's new family car in Ireland.
The Dacia Jogger is Dacia's new seven seat family car that goes on sale priced from a budget-friendly €24,590. Yes really!
There's demand in the market for seven seat vehicles and the Jogger offers just that at an affordable price. So how have they done it and is it any good?
It's fair to say that Dacia is a brand that is growing with confidence. Cars like the Dacia Duster and Sandero are popular with Irish car buyers, and known for offering good value for money.
On a wider scale, the Dacia brand has recently revealed a new logo and brand identity that sees Dacia inch ever closer to the fashionable outdoors market. Seeking a vehicle that says you're a dynamic outdoors type who likes to climb mountains and paddle board at weekends? Then Dacia might have the car for you and the company is now in a better position than ever to convince you to buy one.
What's so special about the Dacia Jogger?
The brand's latest creation is the actively named Dacia Jogger, which is actually based on the humble Sandero. When you look at it, you'll see a familiar gaze from the front. But to fit in seven seats, the Jogger boasts some serious length and a bit more height compared to the Sandero supermini.
It's miles cheaper than all the other seven seaters on the market. In fact you would have to go to the used car market to find a seven-seat family car like this for less than €25,000.
There are three trim levels and one petrol engine for now. All versions come with seven seats, with the extra two able to fold flat when not in use.
It's not bad-looking either. The Jogger is styled somewhere between an estate car and an MPV, but with rugged SUV-inspired looks. Make what you will of that but it has a pretty good attitude when you meet it in the metal. Particularly if you go for the top of the range Extreme SE version (from €27,490) with 16-inch black alloy wheels and black wing mirror caps.
But even entry models look fierce enough with that elevated ride height a must-have for any crossover wannabe, as well as tuff-lookin' roof rails, plastic cladding around the wheel arches and a skid plate front and rear.
The Jogger is always ready for adventure.
Inside the Jogger
Inside the Jogger's interior borrows heavily from the Sandero, which is a good thing as it's a new generation Dacia interior and probably the brand's best yet. The layout is simple and clean, with a nice modern infotainment system as standard on Expression and Extreme SE models with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as two USB ports.
There are a lot of hard plastics but it's not bad at all and softened by some fabric trim on the dashboard and doors. Fancy for a Dacia! Standard equipment also includes air conditioning and cruise control. The mid-range Expression model (from €25,990) gets equipment upgrades including reversing camera, keyless entry and automatic climate control.
As well as a visual upgrade, Extreme SE also adds heated front seats and even wireless smartphone mirroring.
When it comes to building a usable seven seat car that still feels compact behind the wheel, Dacia has done a stellar job with the Jogger. It's the longest Dacia on sale at 4.5 metres and the brand's first seven seater. Up front it feels spacious, while there's enough room for two adults to sit comfortably in the rear. It will be tighter for three across the back seat but it's not impossible and there are Isofix anchors on the two outer seats.
But what about the third row? Are the two extra seats a token gesture or actually capable at all?
Well, the length of the car and tall roof line mean that Dacia has created a remarkably spacious seven seat car. The second row of seats tumble forward easily, so access is simpler than some. Once seated in the third row, it's surprisingly comfortable, even for adults. Certainly children will be fine.
In five-seat mode, you will get all the benefits of a large, family-friendly boot. But with the seven seats in place, there's just room for a few bags.
It's worth noting that the Jogger received just one star in the Euro NCAP safety tests out of a maximum of five stars. To keep the costs down, the Jogger does go without some of the more advanced safety features like lane keeping assist. It was also scored down for missing seatbelt reminders in the third row.
Did you like it?
The Jogger range is very simple at the moment because it only comes with one engine and it's a 1.0-litre turbo petrol with a modest 110hp and a six-speed manual gearbox. If you want an automatic, you will have to wait until next year when the Jogger hybrid arrives.
This small petrol engine does better than what you might think in the Jogger. That's because the Jogger is light and weighs only about 1200kg. So the engine will rev happily and feels pretty sprightly under your right foot. The steering and controls are light so it's simple to drive as opposed to fun to drive. But it's not a bad family car to drive and is comfortable for the most part too.
It's not going to cost the Earth to run either. Over a week of driving my average fuel consumption was 5.9 litres per 100 km.
So there you have it. Ireland's most affordable seven-seat car. The Jogger is not sexy but it is a hugely practical and versatile car. Dacia has stayed true to their roots and brought a good seven seater to market at less than €25,000. Of course you can spend more on your Jogger and get a few nice features. But the fundamentals of this car are fine and at that price you will have grabbed yourself a huge bargain.
Dacia is a brand on the up and while there are some compromises because it's a budget car, they're really are not many at all. The Jogger should follow in the footsteps of Duster and become a household name.
Model tested: Dacia Jogger Extreme SE
Price: €27,490
Engine: 1.0-litre turbo petrol
Power: 110hp
Torque: 200Nm
Top speed: 183km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 11.2 seconds
CO2 emissions: 131g/km
Motor Tax: €210 per year
____________________________
Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes
Dacia Jogger Arrives In Ireland!
The new Dacia Jogger has arrived in Ireland and goes on sale priced from €23,290.
The Jogger is the brand's first 7-seat family car and offers the practicality of an estate car with rugged SUV-inspired design.
The new Dacia Jogger will join the popular Duster and Sandero/Sandero Stepway in the brand's Irish line-up.
Dacia Jogger price and equipment for Ireland
In Ireland the new Jogger is available in three trim levels – Essential, Comfort, and Extreme SE. There are just two options – metallic paint and a spare wheel.
Starting at €23,290, the Jogger Essential includes manual air conditioning, cruise control with speed limiter, rear parking sensors, adjustable steering wheel, and automatic headlights. There are also front fog lights, electric front windows, Automatic Emergency Braking System (AEBS), and Dacia’s Media Control that uses the driver's smartphone as a screen.
From €25,090, the Jogger Comfort adds modular roof rails, body-coloured door handles, electrically adjustable and heated door mirrors, automatic wipers, front and rear parking sensors with reversing camera and 16-inch ‘Flex’ steel wheels. Inside there is a soft-feel steering wheel, satin chrome interior door handles, satin chrome and copper orange air vents, central armrest with storage, electric rear windows and one-touch operation on the front. There's also and electric parking brake, keyless entry, automatic air conditioning, blind spot warning, and Dacia’s 8-inch Media Display system. It comes with two USB ports and smartphone mirroring, including both Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto®.
At €26,590, the special edition Extreme SE adds 16-inch alloy wheels in a black finish, black roof bars and door mirrors, plus additional exterior styling elements unique to the model. The interior gains heated front seats, special floor and cargo mats, and Dacia’s Media Nav system. It has built-in navigation and wireless smartphone mirroring.
Anything else?
Based on the company’s modular CMF-B platform, the new Dacia Jogger features a unique rear module. It extends the car’s length to just over 4.5 metres, making it the longest model in the Dacia range. This extra length allows the Jogger to deliver the same level of versatility as many larger models.
With all seats in place, the boot offers 212-litres of storage space. This rises to 699-litres with the third-row seats folded.
At launch, the new Jogger is powered by Dacia’s new TCe 110 hp turbocharged petrol engine with a 6-speed manual gearbox.
It will be followed by a new hybrid in 2023 with 140 hp, the brand's first ever hybrid vehicle. This will also be the only automatic option in the range.
Dacia Ireland has also confirmed that the all-electric Dacia Spring will go on sale in Ireland in 2024.
Dacia Duster Review (2022)
Read Caroline's Dacia Duster review for everything you need to know about buying Dacia's popular compact SUV in Ireland in 2022.
The Dacia Duster has been a huge success in Ireland since it was first launched back in 2013. Over 14,000 Dusters have found homes in Ireland since it first went on sale.
Now in its second generation, Dacia has updated the Duster again for 2022. Duster gets more modern features to keep it competitive in the compact SUV segment.
Dacia is truly carving out an identity for itself beyond the brand's budget beginnings. 2021 saw the launch of the new Sandero and Sandero Stepway, with this model securing the title of Continental Tyres Irish Compact Car of the Year.
2022 will also see the launch of the brand's first seven seat model, the Dacia Jogger.
What's so special about the Dacia Duster?
But the Duster is a brand-defining car for Dacia, the one that really put the brand on the map here. It's perfectly placed to make the most of a market in love with the SUV.
It's available with petrol, petrol/LPG or diesel engines, with 4WD available as an option too.
Priced from €21,190, the Dacia Duster remains one of Ireland's truly affordable new cars.
The Duster is now very recognisable on Irish roads for its chunky, rugged design. You don't mess with an icon! So the Duster facelift has been minor. New light units include Y-shaped daytime running lights, which look more contemporary and seem to fit better, especially at the rear. This new shape also inspired the new 3D chromed radiator grille. Front LED direction indicators debut here for the first time in the Dacia range.
There’s also a new colour – Arizona Orange – that really makes the Duster pop.
Dacia says Duster’s aerodynamic performance has been improved with the simple design of the new rear spoiler and 16/17-inch alloy rims.
Inside the 2022 Dacia Duster
Inside, the cabin of the Duster is lifted by the addition of a new 8″ touchscreen with more modern graphics and a glossier finish. It replaces the old 7″ unit.
The USB ports have also moved to a neater location further down in the centre console so the cable no longer dangles across the touchscreen.
The cabin is composed almost entirely of hard plastic in line with the car's budget positioning in the market. But Duster somehow gets away with it. It's reassuringly basic. The new infotainment system certainly helps improve the cabin feel.
The cruise control buttons have been moved to a stalk on the multifunction steering wheel. There’s also new upholstery and new slimmer headrests.
Dimensions have not changed but the Dacia Duster’s boxy shape still makes it very practical and great value for the money. Duster will seat five, with the rear footwells offering more space than many more salubrious rivals in the B-SUV segment. The high roofline gives loads of headroom, adding to that feeling of space.
The boot is also a good size with up to 478 litres available in two wheel drive models, and 467 in four wheel drive Dusters. Isofix child-seat mounting points are fitted to the outer rear seats.
What are my options?
The new Duster is available in Ireland with petrol and diesel engines in 2022, as well as a petrol/LPG 'bifuel option' by special order. All wheel drive is available on diesel models.
The range kicks off with the 1.0-litre TCe petrol engine with 90 hp and a manual gearbox at €21,190. There's also a new petrol/LPG option priced the same, with 100 hp and a 6-speed manual gearbox.
It can run on petrol alone, but benefits from having an LPG tank fitted beneath the floor of the boot, in place of the spare wheel. LPG (liquid petroleum gas) is sold cheaper at the pump than petrol from some fuel stations around Ireland.
The diesel option in the Duster range is the familiar 1.5-litre dCi with 115 hp available in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, combined with a six-speed manual gearbox. Four wheel drive Dusters are available from €26,140. They are extremely capable off-road for a small SUV, as I found out driving the Duster 4x4 in France.
With a bit more power, Duster is offered with a 1.3-litre TCe 150 hp petrol engine. It's sold as two wheel drive. It is the only engine in the range offered with an automatic gearbox.
Driving the Dacia Duster
The latest Duster features a new type of tyre, no matter which version a customer opts for. The two-wheel drive version is fitted with ‘green’ CO2-optimised tyres as standard. It's said to give a 10 per cent reduction in rolling resistance.
The Dacia Duster 1.5 dCi is a reliable companion for the Duster with a good return on economy. My average fuel consumption over a week of driving was 5.3 litres per 100 km. Performance is adequate for this class of vehicle, with the diesel offering a healthy amount of torque to keep the Duster moving competently from town to motorway.
Behind the wheel, the high driving position gives the Duster the surprising feeling of an authentic off-roader. The diesel can get noisy under acceleration but it's simple to drive, with light controls and good agility.
Duster’s all-electric power steering has been recalibrated on medium and high speed driving. So from 70 km/h, the steering becomes slightly heavier but the Duster is not the sharpest performer in its class with more body roll than some competitors. Yet it’s comfortable where it matters over long distances and copes with rougher surfaces on rural roads and in town reasonably well too.
Anything else?
In Ireland the Duster is available in three trim levels: Essential, Comfort and Prestige. There's also a limited edition Extreme model.
The Duster Essential (from €21,190) has steel wheels, automatic headlights, and black roof bars. Inside there’s a height and reach-adjustable steering column, cruise control with speed limiter, on-board computer, DAB Radio and manual air conditioning.
The Comfort (from €23,390) is more desirable for 16-inch alloy wheels, black-painted heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, body-coloured door handles, front fog lights, and hill descent control. The interior has upgraded upholstery, height-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, leather steering wheel, electric rear windows, rear parking sensors with rear camera, and the 8-inch infotainment system with Android Auto® and Apple CarPlay®.
The Prestige trim (from €25,290) adds 17-inch alloy wheels, grey door mirrors and roof bars, dark-tinted rear windows, and an acoustic windscreen. Inside there’s automatic air conditioning, keyless entry, multiview camera, front parking sensors, blind spot warning system, heated seats, on-board navigation system and wireless smartphone connectivity for Android Auto® and Apple CarPlay®.
The Duster Extreme (from €25,590) has 17" black alloy wheels, orange inserts on the front grille, side-mirror housing, roof rails, and tailboard, and inside on the air-vents, door panels, and centre console. There’s also special fabric/TEP upholstery with orange stitching. There's an exclusive colour too - Urban Grey.
The Duster holds a 3-star Euro NCAP safety rating with some safety equipment like lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking still absent.
Did you like it?
The latest edition of the Duster gets a smartening up all round with a timely upgrade to the infotainment. This goes a long way to lift the cabin, though it is still on the more austere side compared to more expensive models.
Duster is the lovable rogue of the B-SUV class. It looks great with a tough utilitarian look. Even basic models have a simple rugged charm to them.
Clearly the Duster is not the one to get for cutting edge technology. Power still comes exclusively from combustion engines, keeping the price accessible in the Irish market. Though the Duster Bi-Fuel that can run on LPG is an intriguing option at a time when fuel prices are at their highest.
The Dacia Duster offers a lot for a five seat SUV. With that sort of pricing, it's impossible to ignore in today's market for cheap and accessible motoring!
Written by Caroline Kidd
Founder and Editor of Changing Lanes, Juror for Irish Car of the Year
Model tested: Dacia Duster dCi 115 Comfort
Price: €25,190
Engine: 1.5-litre turbo diesel
Power: 115 hp
Torque: 260 Nm
0-100km/h: 10.5 seconds
Top speed: 179 km/h
CO2 emissions (WLTP): 111 g/km
Motor Tax: €200 per year
Dacia Sandero Stepway Review
Read Caroline's Dacia Sandero Stepway review for everything you need to know about buying the budget small car in Ireland. Recently crowned Continental Tyres Irish Compact Car of the Year.
In 2021 the new Dacia Sandero and Dacia Sandero Stepway arrived in Ireland. It's the crossover-inspired Sandero Stepway that's the subject of this review!
With pricing starting from €12,990 for the Sandero and from €15,990 for the Sandero Stepway, these twins remain truly affordable in today's new car market.
With a new platform, there are now more features for the Sandero including new engines including a Bi-Fuel LPG option, a new automatic transmission and new six-speed manual.
The Dacia Sandero Stepway is the more adventurous of this duo with standard features including a raised ride height, roof rails, skid plate and lashings of plastic cladding - mandatory for any hatchback masquerading as an SUV!
What's so special about the Dacia Sandero Stepway?
In truth we love the look of this new Sandero Stepway. Especially in a bright hue like the Desert Orange of the test car. The raised ride height gives it more visual presence whether on the road or in the car park. It has a sort of plucky, robust charm that belies its budget beginnings. In fact the Stepway is already Ireland’s favourite version of the Sandero. It represents over 60 per cent of all sales of the model in Ireland.
Exterior dimensions are similar to the previous generation of the car. But there is a wider track and more pronounced wheel arches, a lower roof, sloped windscreen and smoother lines throughout. All versions feature LED lighting with a new Y-shaped LED signature at the front. And LED-effect four-element lighting signature at the rear. How glam!
What are my options?
In Ireland the Sandero Stepway is offered in three trim levels - Essential (from €15,990), Comfort (from €17,790) and Prestige (from €19,290).
All models feature automatic headlamps with improved visibility from the LED light units. Other features include emergency brake assist, hill start assist, blind spot warning and park assist.
Standard equipment includes cruise control, manual air con, DAB radio with steering wheel-mounted controls, display integrated into the dashboard computer screen, smartphone holder on the dashboard, 2 front speakers and Bluetooth® connection. While the Prestige model on test had soft feel steering wheel, front fog lamps, power mirrors, keyless entry, automatic wipers, 8″ touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, front and rear parking sensors, rear view camera, automatic air con and 16" diamond effect alloy wheels.
Engine options include a 1.0-litre TCe petrol with 90 hp and a CVT automatic gearbox. Or a 1.0-litre TCe BiFuel version (100 hp) with a petrol and LPG tank for even better value when it comes to running the car.
Inside the 2021 Dacia Sandero Stepway!
It's all looking good so far. The interior has also improved in design and quality. The new generation Sandero interior looks a lot more modern with an 8" glossy touchscreen on all but the very entry model. It's compatible with smartphones, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Quality has been improved so Sandero is looking like an even better prospect. Hard plastics feature copiously. But the addition of unique orange detailing on the air vents and orange stitching on the upholstery in the Stepway model brightens the interior. There are also some stylish fabric inserts on the dashboard. The steering wheel adjusts for reach and rake.
The cabin of the Sandero Stepway feels spacious for a compact vehicle. There’s an extra 42 mm of legroom in the rear. It is one of the most spacious cars in its class. The boot is perfect supermini size too! It has increased to 328 litres. Passengers also have more space to put their belongings, with up to 21 litres of storage space dotted throughout the cabin.
What's it like to drive?
The latest Dacia Sandero Stepway sits on a new platform. It has been designed to deliver better handling, greater steering precision, more efficient engines and improved refinement over the previous model. The CMF modular platform underpinning this car combines greater resistance and rigidity with less weight. Sandero and Stepway models are fitted with a new front axle with rectangular suspension arms. They provide more effective shock absorption and enhanced steering.
Anti-roll capacity has been improved and the wheelbase extended for greater cornering stability. The track is 29mm wider on Stepway to improve handling and behaviour on the road. The new engine mount has been improved with a lighter and stiffer cradle to minimise vibrations in the cabin too.
Here’s where the Dacia Sandero Stepway gets really interesting! New engines including a three cylinder 1.0-litre TCe Bi-Fuel petrol engine with an LPG tank. It's matched to a 6-speed manual gearbox.
Dacia is the only car manufacturer to offer LPG and petrol Bi-Fuel options across its entire range of passenger cars. The cars are converted in the factory, guaranteeing safety and reliability. The LPG tank is located in the spare wheel well and filling nozzle next to the petrol filler. LPG (liquid petroleum gas) is sold cheaper at the pump than petrol from some fuel stations around Ireland. The Sandero has 50 litres for petrol and 40 litres for the LPG tank.
Did you like it?
On the road the Dacia Sandero Stepway feels nippy and agile. It is softly sprung offering a very comfortable driving experience for a small car. It holds the road pretty well too. Over a week of driving my average fuel consumption was 6.3 litres per 100 km.
The step up in quality and design is much welcome in the Sandero stable. The Stepway is a car that you won't just buy because of the sticker price; it looks really good too with very on-trend crossover-inspired styling cues.
Sandero and Stepway already have a loyal following of fans in Ireland who will be delighted with this new model.
The Dacia Sandero BiFuel is user-friendly despite the name and offers customers a petrol car with a good show of power and the benefit of an LPG tank. If you can top up with LPG locally this is surely a route to more efficient motoring, which should go down very well with savvy Dacia owners!
The Dacia Sandero Stepway is a charming city car with big attitude. It offers incredible value while improved design, refinement and interior quality and technology give it a much-needed boost of modernity. A surprise hit of the year.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Dacia Sandero Stepway BiFuel
Price: €19,290
Engine: 1.0-litre turbo petrol
Power: 100 hp
Torque: 160 Nm petrol/ 170 Nm LPG
Top speed: 175 km/h
Acceleration (0-100 km/h): 11.6 seconds
CO2 emissions: 130 g/km
Motor Tax: €270 per year
Dacia Duster Review
The Dacia Duster is back with a comprehensive suite of updates to keep Dacia's bestselling compact SUV at the top of its game. Caroline travelled to Paris, France, to drive the latest Duster.
The Duster has been an unbridled success in Ireland and Europe since it was launched. The Duster story in Ireland begins in 2013 and since then over 14,000 of them have found homes here. The second generation model launched here in 2018, to build on the success of the first with more style and modern features.
At the launch of Duster 'Phase 2' in Paris, Christophe Lavauzelle from Dacia Europe referred to the Duster as an 'icon'. True, this unlikely hero has endeared itself to millions in a few short years, with a sort of transcendent charm that seems at odds with the bare essentials beginnings of the Duster.
Dacia also unveiled a new brand identity in Paris that echoes the brand's growing appeal among nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts. This clear direction in a market already in love with crossover-style vehicles will help differentiate the brand further among competitors. To that end an all-new Dacia Duster Extreme will go on sale in early 2022 - a top of the range trim level featuring more rugged, exclusive styling features.
Design
Dacia say customers love the chunky, rugged design of the Duster so the facelift sees only minor changes. New light units include Y-shaped daytime running lights, which look more contemporary and seem to fit better, especially at the rear. This new shape also inspired the new 3D chromed radiator grille. Front LED direction indicators debut here for the first time in the Dacia range. There's also a new colour - Arizona Orange - that really makes the Duster pop. Duster’s aerodynamic performance has been improved with the simple design of the new rear spoiler and 16/17-inch alloy rims.
Interior
The main change to the interior of the latest Duster is a new 8" touchscreen with more modern graphics and a glossier finish, replacing the old 7" unit. It lifts the cabin though the Duster interior is still very much a hard plastic affair in line with the brand's more budget position in the market. The USB ports have moved to a neater location further down in the centre console so the cable no longer dangles across the touchscreen. The cruise control buttons have been moved to a stalk on the multifunction steering wheel. There's also new upholstery and new slimmer headrests. Some models also get a new high centre console with a wide retracting armrest housing over one litre of storage and two USB charging sockets for the rear passengers.
Practicality
Dimensions have not changed but the Dacia Duster's boxy shape still makes it great value for the money. Duster will seat five, with the rear footwells offering more space than many more salubrious rivals in the B-SUV segment. The high roofline gives loads of headroom, adding to that feeling of space. The boot is also a good size with up to 478 litres available in two wheel drive models, and 467 in four wheel drive Dusters. Isofix child-seat mounting points are fitted to the outer rear seats.
Engines
The new Duster is available in Ireland with petrol, diesel and bi-fuel (petrol-LPG) engines. The range kicks off with the 1.0-litre TCe 100 hp bi-fuel engine, which Dacia Ireland pitches as a petrol car - but with the benefits of having an LPG tank. LPG (liquid petroleum gas) is sold cheaper at the pump than petrol from some fuel stations around Ireland. The capacity of the LPG tank on the TCe 100 Bi-Fuel Duster has been increased by 50 per cent, to nearly 50 litres in this latest version. Combined with the petrol tank, the range of the car is 1,225 km! This entry model is two wheel drive only and uses a six-speed manual gearbox. The LPG tank is fitted beneath the floor of the boot, in place of the spare wheel.
There's also the 1.5-litre dCi 115 hp diesel available in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive, combined with a six-speed manual gearbox.
With a bit more power, Duster is offered with a 1.3-litre TCe 150 hp petrol, which is two wheel drive only and combined with a six-speed dual clutch automatic EDC gearbox.
Driving it
On the road the Duster is pleasant and confident. It ticks the boxes for the segment - the seating position is high, the ride is comfortable, the steering is light. Duster's all-electric power steering has been recalibrated on medium and high speed driving so from 70 km/h, the steering becomes slightly harder. Still it's not the sharpest performer with lean in corners and rather loose steering but it never really wanted to be, nor does it have to be. All the engines we tested offered plenty of power and adequate performance, with even the entry level bi-fuel option offering a smooth and cohesive drive matched to a 6-speed manual gearbox, defying its somewhat lacklustre performance figures. The automatic also does well with its 150 hp offering a more powerful, confident drive.
We also tested diesel 4x4 models on a special off-road course where the Duster showed off its very impressive ability to traverse difficult terrain. The 4x4 Monitor as standard on these models has a number of 'toys' for extra security while off-road in difficult terrain; lateral inclinometer that shows the angle between the left and right-hand sides of the vehicle; pitch angle, keeping the driver informed during steep descents and climbs; compass and altimeter - a must for any Duster adventures!
The latest Duster features a new type of tyre, no matter which version a customer opts for. The two-wheel drive version is fitted with ‘green’ CO2-optimised tyres as standard, said to give a 10 per cent reduction in rolling resistance. On the 4x4 version, the tyres meet the official 3PMSFA (three-peak mountain snowflake) required performance criteria in snow testing to be considered severe snow service-rated so winter tyres are no longer necessary - not that they are ever really necessary in Ireland!
Equipment
The latest Duster is offered in three trims in Ireland from launch - Essential, Comfort and Prestige.
The Duster Essential has steel wheels, automatic headlights, and black roof bars, while inside there’s a height and reach-adjustable steering column, cruise control with speed limiter, seven-function on-board computer, DAB Radio and manual air conditioning.
Available from €22,090, Comfort adds 16-inch alloy wheels, black-painted heated and electrically adjustable door mirrors, body-coloured door handles, front fog lights, and hill descent control. The interior, meanwhile, gains upgraded upholstery, height-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar adjustment, leather steering wheel, electric rear windows, rear parking sensors with rear camera, and an 8-inch Media Display infotainment system complete with Android Auto® and Apple CarPlay®.
At the top of the range, from €23,990, the Prestige adds 17-inch alloy wheels, Grey Quartz door mirrors and roof bars, dark-tinted rear windows, and an acoustic windshield. Inside there's automatic air conditioning, keyless entry, Multiview camera, front parking sensors, blind spot warning system, heated seats, and an 8-inch Media Nav on-board navigation system with wireless smartphone connectivity for Android Auto® and Apple CarPlay®.
The new Duster Extreme limited edition will be available in six different body colours: Glacier White, Pearl Black, Comet Grey, Iron Blue, Arizona Orange, and the exclusive Urban Grey. Orange inserts feature both outside (front grille, side-mirror housing, roof rails, and tailboard) and inside (air-vents, door panels, and centre console). There's also special fabric/TEP upholstery with orange stitching and exclusive black aluminium rims.
Pricing
Essential models go on sale from €19,990, Comfort from €22,090, and Prestige from €23,990 - all prices quoted for the entry level bi-fuel engine with 100 hp. Four wheel drive versions are available from €28,290 and automatics are available from €27,490. Motor tax ranges from €200 to €270 depending on model.
Summary
Following on from the launch of the Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway earlier in the year, now it's the turn of Dacia's star Duster. This is a series of timely enhancements to see Duster into 2022 and beyond.
The Dacia Duster has capably carved out its own niche in the small SUV segment - in fact there's a certain aura of desirability around those boxy looks that is seeing the brand invest further in the off-road image with the new Extreme version due also in 2022 and the offer of genuinely purposeful four wheel drive models.
Inside the Duster gets a much needed boost in the shape of the brand's latest infotainment system that surely lifts what is a sombre but durable cabin. Dacia Ireland is happy to be able to offer a petrol automatic in the range once again, while the Duster Bi-Fuel offers buyers an entry level petrol with the benefit of an LPG tank - if you can top up with LPG locally this is surely a route to more efficient motoring, which should go down very well with savvy Dacia owners!
Still charming, we shouldn't like it so much, but we do. The updated Dacia Duster is on sale in Ireland now.
Caroline Kidd
Dacia Sandero (2021) First Drive Review
Dacia Ireland has launched a new version of the Dacia Sandero supermini here, with pricing starting from a 'shockingly affordable' €12,990. The latest Sandero and Sandero Stepway sport an all-new design with updated equipment and technology. The more 'adventurous' Stepway with rugged crossover charm is Ireland’s favourite version of the Sandero representing over 60 per cent of all Sandero sales in Ireland. We took the new Sandero and Sandero Stepway on a nifty test drive around Dublin to find out what's new.
Enjoy the latest of our Dacia reviews below with the 2021 Dacia Sandero, on Irish roads for the first time!
Looking for something a bit bigger? Read our latest review of the Dacia Duster.
Styling
Styling of the Sandero twins has been updated. Both cars now look even more modern, and, dare we say it, upmarket. Exterior dimensions are similar to the previous generation of the car but tweaks include more pronounced wheel arches, a lower roof, sloped windscreen and smoother lines throughout. A wider track and flush wheels contribute to the lower, more planted appearance on the road. Machine-stamped panels provide a seamless, higher quality fit. All versions feature LED lighting with a new Y-shaped LED signature at the front, and LED-effect four-element lighting signature at the rear. The Dacia Sandero Stepway gets a more rugged makeover with extra cladding, raised ride height, unique grille with Stepway logo, roof bars and metal skid plates. It's definitely the better looking of the two. Though compact, the Stepway simply has more presence and we can see it gaining even more fans with this latest version.
Interior
The interior has been revamped with enhanced materials and a new design. The very entry models do feel basic with mostly hard plastics and few frills. But the Stepway model we tested in Prestige trim had a more colourful and plush feel. We were impressed with the new infotainment screen (from Comfort trim up) and some new soft touch materials with interesting patterns. So on the surface this one looked good. The Stepway also adds unique orange detailing on the air vents and orange stitching on the upholstery. The steering wheel adjusts for reach and rake.
Practicality
The Sandero has not grown in size much but it's roomier on the inside. There's an extra 42 mm of legroom in the rear and it is one of the most spacious in its class. The boot is perfect supermini size too! It has increased to 328 litres and passengers also have more space to put their belongings, with up to 21 litres of storage space dotted throughout the cabin.
Engines
Here's where it gets really interesting! New engines including a three cylinder 1.0-litre TCe Bi-Fuel petrol engine, which can also run on LPG. We tested this model with 6-speed manual transmission at the launch and with 100 hp it feels nicely powerful on the road, more than enough for a Sandero's typical 9 to 5. It's the 'quickest' in the range with 0-100 kmh in 11.2 seconds! The LPG tank is located in the spare wheel well and the filling nozzle is next to the petrol filler. Running on LPG, the new Sandero Bi-Fuel releases on average 11 per cent less CO2 emissions than an equivalent petrol engine but is also capable of travelling more than 800 miles when utilising both petrol and LPG tanks – 50 litres for petrol (the same capacity as the tank on petrol-only variants) and 40 litres for the LPG tank. The manufacturer warranty period, servicing costs and frequency are the same as the petrol versions too.
We also tested the more basic 1.0-litre, three cylinder, SCe 65 (Sandero only), which didn't have a huge amount of zest or energy, but probably does the same 9 to 5 around town pretty reliably. It comes with a five-speed manual transmission. For an indication of performance, 0-100 kmh is 16.7 seconds!
There's also the TCe 90, a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder unit paired with a CVT automatic transmission.
Driving it
With a new platform, both Sandero models for 2021 have been designed for better handling, greater steering precision, more efficient engines and improved refinement. Redesigned wing mirrors reduce wind noise and improve cabin refinement. New Sandero and Stepway models are fitted with a new front axle with rectangular suspension arms that provide more effective shock absorption and enhanced steering. Anti-roll capacity has been improved and the wheelbase extended for greater cornering stability, while the track is 41 mm wider on Sandero and 29 mm on new Sandero Stepway to improve handling and behaviour on the road. The new engine mount has been improved with a lighter and stiffer cradle to minimise vibrations in the cabin too. It's fine to drive but on first impressions it did lack some of the refinement and sophistication of more expensive models like the Renault Clio for example.
Equipment
As the first Dacia models based on the CMF modular platform, the new Sandero and Stepway benefit from more active safety features than before. All models feature automatic headlamps with improved visibility from the LED light units. Other features include emergency brake assist, hill start assist, blind spot warning and park assist.
The Sandero is available in Essence, Comfort and Prestige (Stepway only) trim.
Standard equipment includes 15" steel wheels with covers, cruise control, air con, electric front windows, DAB radio with steering wheel-mounted controls, display integrated into the dashboard computer screen, smartphone holder on the dashboard, 2 front speakers and Bluetooth® connection.
The Comfort model adds 15" flex wheels with covers, front grille with chrome, soft feel steering wheel, satin chrome trim inside, front fog lamps, power mirrors, keyless entry, automatic wipers, 8" touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, rear parking sensors and rear view camera.
Dacia Sandero Pricing For Ireland
| ENGINE | TRIM | ANNUAL ROAD TAX | RRP | |
| All-new Sandero | ||||
| SCe 65 | Essential | €190 | €12,990 | |
| TCe 100 LPG | Essential | €200 | €14,490 | |
| TCe 100 LPG | Comfort | €200 | €16,290 | |
| TCe 90 CVT | Comfort | €210 | €18,290 | |
| All-new Sandero Stepway | ||||
| TCe 100 LPG | STEPWAY Essential | €210 | €15,990 | |
| TCe 100 LPG | STEPWAY Comfort | €210 | €17,790 | |
| TCe 90 CVT | STEPWAY Comfort | €210 | €19,790 | |
| TCe 100 LPG | STEPWAY Prestige | €200 | €19,290 | |
| TCe 90 CVT | STEPWAY Prestige | €210 | €21,290 | |
Rivals
The new Dacia Sandero rivals cars such as the Kia Rio, Hyundai i20, Renault Clio, Toyota Yaris and Ford Fiesta.
Summary
The new Dacia Sandero and Sandero Stepway are maturing in the right way with enhanced quality and technology. One can simply not argue with the price. At a time when cars are getting even more expensive to buy, the Sandero remains refreshingly simple and affordable. These cars look and feel better on the road with a new platform bringing more technology to the mix. Some engines offer more zest than others and the TCe 100 Bi-Fuel is certainly one to watch! We look forward to bringing you a more detailed review later in the year.
Caroline Kidd
Dacia Duster (2021) Review
Say hello to the 2021 Dacia Duster!
The Dacia Duster is maturing. Launched in Ireland back in 2012, it quickly gained notoriety as a ‘no nonsense’ budget SUV. Some canny pricing and a tough off-road look did the Duster a lot of favours. Just as the market was becoming saturated with B-segment crossovers, the Duster’s angles and honest charm wriggled its way into the hearts of more than a few Irish buyers.
That’s right, over 10,000 Dusters have found a home in Ireland. Now in its second generation, the latest Dacia Duster has the exterior sheen of the trendy suburban compact SUV to it, magnified by a glossy metallic finish! It’s come a long way. With the last significant update to the car in 2018, the Duster looks like it's ready for the Dakar Rally. Larger than life roof rails, plastic cladding and squared off wheel arches make the Duster just so…tough!
In fact, I’d missed the honest charm of the Duster. Slipping in behind the wheel, and it’s fair to say that the Duster is not trying to seduce you with sophistication. The cabin is a hard-plastic affair with some more dated switchgear than the most style conscious of the small SUVs. Superficially, you might dismiss the Duster for its lack of glossy surfaces, glittering technology, and digital interfaces. But there is a lot of substance to this car. This is why you will find a small army of Dusters already holding their own on Irish roads.
What are my options?
With pricing starting from €19,365, the Duster offers a compact SUV stance for supermini money. Standard equipment is basic but the Essential model includes LED daytime running lights, Emergency Brake Assist, 16-inch steel wheels and DAB radio with steering-column mounted controls and Bluetooth connectivity.
You will find a more comfortable home in Comfort trim (from €21,365) - still 'shockingly affordable' - including cruise control, 16" alloy wheels, soft feel steering wheel, trip computer, satin chrome roof bars and skid plate, manual air con, electric rear windows, rear parking camera and sensors, and the MediaNav 7″ touchscreen multimedia system.
Top of the range Prestige models like the one on test for Changing Lanes start from €23,665. Word has it that Dacia buyers do tend to go for the higher trim levels in this car for maximum goodies. The Duster Prestige looks the business, adding 17-inch alloy wheels, multi-view camera, blind spot warning, climate control and keyless entry.
Front wheel drive and four wheel drive models are available. Power comes from the trusty 1.5-litre dCi diesel or a new 1.0-litre turbo petrol engine.
Inside the latest Duster
The Dacia Duster has a plain cabin with little of the glitter or glamour we have come to expect from a small SUV. That wouldn’t sit well with the Duster’s image now would it? It appears solidly built and practical. There’s a multimedia touchscreen display in the centre of the dash but the graphics do look quite dated. Yet with Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility, it’s not likely to matter too much.
Where the Duster really shines is when you consider the space available inside the vehicle at this sticker price. Duster will seat five, with the rear footwells offering more space than many rivals. The high roofline gives loads of headroom, adding to that feeling of space. The boot is also a good size at 445 litres. The Duster's boxy goodness reaps dividends. Isofix child-seat mounting points are fitted to the outer rear seats.
The Duster holds a 3-star Euro NCAP safety rating with some safety equipment like lane departure warning and autonomous emergency braking still absent.
Driving the Dacia Duster
The driver enjoys a high seating position behind the wheel giving the feel of an authentic off-roader. Steering is light making the car easy to park and drive around town. The Duster handles the road safely though it’s not the sharpest driver of them all in its class, with more body roll than some more low slung competitors. Yet it's comfortable where it matters over long distances and copes with rougher surfaces on rural roads and in town reasonably well.
The diesel engine in our test car is a 1.5-litre affair with 115 hp. It gives a nice bit of pulling power without getting too raucous under acceleration. It returns good economy with my average fuel consumption coming in at 5.4 litres per 100 km over a week of driving. Motor tax is €200 per year for this model. There’s also a 1.0-litre petrol available with 100 or 130 hp.
The Duster is missing some polish but at this side of the market and at this price, it's clearly not a deal breaker.
Did you like it?
The Dacia Duster is the darling of the Dacia range. The Duster offers excellent value but also happens to be quite the charismatic car. The modern, squared off look gives Duster a leg up in the crowded SUV market.
Inside the Duster provides the convenience features one would expect of a compact SUV - if you avoid the very entry model - but without the gloss or sophistication of the best of the rivals. But everything works and it’s comfortable and fun to drive in a basic and authentic way.
On the road the Duster makes good progress backed up by strong engines.
No disparaging remarks are needed. The Dacia Duster is a rough diamond, but a good one.
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Dacia Duster dCi 115 Prestige
Price: €23,665
Engine: 1.5-litre turbo diesel
Power: 115 hp
Torque: 260 Nm
0-100km/h: 10.5 seconds
Top speed: 179 km/h
Fuel economy: 4.9-5.5 l/100 km
CO2 emissions (WLTP): 111 g/km
Motor Tax: €200 per year
2021 Dacia Sandero Range Revealed
Dacia has refreshed its offer in the compact car segment with the new Dacia Sandero and Stepway. The new Sandero range is expected in Ireland in spring 2021, with pricing to be announced closer to launch.
The third generation of the Dacia Sandero and Stepway are built on a new platform, and will offer more active and passive safety features, new engines and a new automatic transmission and six-speed manual gearbox.
In Ireland over 9,500 Sanderos have been sold since the model launched here in 2013, with the Stepway crossover style model accounting for over 60% of Sandero sales here.
There have been subtle tweaks to the exterior with a more sloped windscreen, a slightly lower roof and flowing roofline. The front and rear lights display Dacia’s new Y-shaped LED light signature. LED headlights will be offered as a standard feature across the entire model range.
According to Dacia, the new shape of the doors and wing mirrors improves the car’s aerodynamics while reducing air noise for all occupants.
The 2021 Dacia Sandero Stepway has a unique ribbed and domed bonnet, the chrome Stepway logo under the front grille and curved fenders above the fog lights. The front and rear bumpers include a metal skid plate. There is 174 mm ground clearance (an increase of 41 mm compared with the Sandero), while roof bars and wheel arch cladding complete the crossover-like design.
The new Renault Group CMF modular platform underpins the new Sandero range and combines greater resistance and rigidity with less weight. Both cars are fitted with a new front axle with rectangular suspension arms that are said to provide effective shock absorption and enhanced steering. Anti-roll capacity has been improved and the wheelbase extended for greater cornering stability. The new engine mount has been upgraded to minimise vibrations in the cabin.
There's also a new interior with redesigned dashboard features. Newly designed front seats provide greater comfort and support with height adjustable headrests and new, more premium upholstery. In the rear there is an additional 42 mm of space compared to the outgoing models. The boot of the Sandero has a generous 328-litre capacity and features a flat floor with adjustable height floor with two positions.
Engines will include the SCe 65, a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol engine paired with a five-speed manual transmission and the TCe 90, a turbocharged 1.0-litre three-cylinder petrol unit paired with a six-speed manual transmission or CVT automatic transmission.
Menapia Motors Wexford Opens Ireland’s First Standalone Dacia Showroom
Menapia Motors in Wexford has opened the first standalone Dacia showroom in Ireland following an investment of over €1 million.
The new state-of-the-art, eight-car Dacia showroom and workshop is located next to Menapia Motors’ existing Renault showroom on the Rosslare Road, Wexford Town. The expansion has increased employment at Menapia Motors with the addition of five new staff members.
To celebrate the opening, the dealership held an official unveiling of the new Dacia Duster with a special launch event on Thursday 6th December in the new showroom. Guests got a first chance to experience the new Dacia showroom with Christmas carols from the Wexford Light Opera Christmas Carollers.
A sales event will follow from Thursday 6th – Saturday 8th December 2018 at Menapia Motors Dacia with offers across the 2019 Dacia range. Anyone who test drives the new Dacia Duster during the sales event will also be entered into a draw to win a Meadows & Byrne gift card.
Gearing up for 191, Menapia Motors Dacia is offering 4.9% APR on all orders taken and registered before 31st January 2019 across the Dacia range.
Menapia Motors has been awarded Dacia Dealer of the Year for the last two years consecutively at the Renault Ireland National Dealer Awards.
Nearly 20,000 Dacia cars have been sold in Ireland since the brand’s arrival here six years ago, including over 10,000 Dusters.
Dacia Duster Review (2018)
Caroline drives the 2018 Dacia Duster.
The Dacia Duster has been a bit of a runaway success in Ireland, with over 10,000 Dusters finding homes here since it first arrived in 2012. Not a bad performance for Dacia, a relatively new challenger brand to the Irish market. It’s fair to say Irish buyers have embraced the Dacia Duster’s ‘no nonsense’ approach to motoring and accepted this budget SUV into the fold.
The next generation of the Dacia Duster has just arrived in Ireland so I was keen to secure a test drive to see what makes the Duster so popular.
For a start there is the price. The range kicks off at supermini money - €17,390 for a compact SUV. That certainly sparks interest. Diesels are available from €18,590. Yes, this is ‘shockingly affordable’ motoring.
Duster's got rugged, boyish charm
Part of the Dacia Duster’s charm I believe also has to be its styling. Though it occupies the compact area of the market, the Duster is not small on attitude. It has the presence of a tough little off-roader and whether intentional or not, Dacia has created something quite distinct in the segment while rivals like the Renault Captur and SEAT Arona go for a softer look.
Now don't get me wrong, Dacia has taken some of the angles off this new Duster and it’s looking less square. All the body panels are new, but it’s a gentle evolution of styling that enhances the Duster’s rugged appeal and will certainly not isolate fans of the first generation of the vehicle.
Inside the 2018 Dacia Duster
Hop inside and you will be greeted with swathes of hard grey plastic that allow the Duster to compete at such a low entry price. The dashboard and interior have been revised, though it remains plain but seemingly well screwed together. There’s a multimedia touchscreen display in the centre of the dash, though the graphics do look quite dated. The seats have been completely redesigned with denser foam for improved comfort and support, and the driver enjoys the same high seating position as the previous car.
In Ireland there are three trim levels: Essential, Comfort and Prestige. Standard features include LED daytime running lights, Emergency Brake Assist, 16-inch steel wheels and DAB radio with steering-column mounted controls and Bluetooth connectivity. Comfort trim (from €19,790) adds 16-inch alloy wheels, manual air conditioning, leather steering wheel, rear parking camera and sensors, electric front and rear windows and the MediaNav 7" touchscreen multimedia system. The Prestige version (from €21,290) adds 17-inch alloy wheels, multi-view camera, blind spot warning, climate control and keyless entry.
Will the Duster fit my gear?
Interior space in the Duster is good for this size of vehicle. The footwells in the rear are of a good size, and there’s plenty of headroom. In terms of the width of the rear bench, two will be more comfortable than three, which is similar to competitors. The boot is also very usable with a practical shape and a generous capacity of 445 litres.
In terms of engines, Dacia Ireland is now offering the Duster with a 1.6-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, along with the well proven 1.5dCi. Both engines offer 115hp, though the diesel has more torque and is the best for economy in the range. Standard models are front wheel drive, though 4x4 is available from €20,590 with the diesel engine from January 2019.
What's the 2018 Dacia Duster like on the road?
The model I tested was a front wheel drive Dacia Duster Prestige 1.5 dCi with a list price of €22,490. With that pricing it’s still quite the bargain for a diesel compact SUV. Over a few days of driving my fuel consumption was 6.1 litres per 100kms and motor tax for this model is €200 per year.
On the road, the diesel has plenty of power to move the Duster efficiently and is reasonably refined too. Dacia has improved the sound insulation in the cabin and the 2018 Duster also comes with a new electric power steering that reduces the effort required to turn the wheel by 35 per cent.
The steering is very light, so it’s great for parking and manoeuvring, but contributes to a more vague feel at speed. Dynamically the Duster could be sharper and more refined, but on the plus side it's comfortable and perfectly acceptable considering the price point of the vehicle.
Dacia has improved the packaging of the Duster considerably with a smarter exterior, more equipment, and improved comfort and refinement. The interior finish and the driving experience hint at the Duster’s more budget positioning in the market. But this Duster is a likable and very affordable compact SUV with an attitude far bigger than its humble beginnings!
Caroline Kidd
Model tested: Dacia Duster Prestige Blue dCi 115 4x2
Price: €22,490 (Range from €17,390)
Engine: 1.5-litre turbo diesel
Power: 115hp
Torque: 260 Nm
0-100km/h: 10.5 seconds
Top speed: 178 km/h
Economy: 4.4/100km
CO2 emissions: 115 g/km
Motor tax: €200 per year