With £ 5,995 (US$ 7,347), the Dacia Sandero still the cheapest new car you can buy in the UK, and that's a massive selling point. However, since it competes against the likes of the more expensive Ford Fiesta, Vauxhall/Opel Corsa, and Volkswagen Polo, can it pose a threat to them?

Depending on what one is looking for when choosing a new car, the answer could be yes, especially if the budget is limited. 


Moreover, the cheap plastics found inside, along with the Spartan equipment offered on the entry-level version, which doesn’t even get a radio, are factors worth looking into, if you don't want to pay at least 8,995 (US$ 11,024) for the Laureate range-topping model, which adds a 7-inch infotainment, with sat-nav, among others.

Choosing one of the three engines that are available for the Sandero can prove to be tricky as well, as the new 1.0-liter unit, with 74 horses, feels underpowered on the highway, and the 1.5-liter diesel, producing 89 HP, is quite noisy. That means that you're left with the 89hp 0.9-liter turbo petrol burner.


There are some areas where the five-door hatch shines, such as the good front and rear legroom, plenty of storage spaces, and a decently-sized boot. Add the fact that it will cost you less than any other new car in the first three years, and it could be a decent choise.