Dacia has begun
testing the third-generation Sandero hatchback on public roads. It was also
about time, since the current model has been on sale since 2012 and received a
mild refresh in 2016. As you can see, the prototype is heavily camouflaged and
even features some padding to disguise its shape.
Still, it’s pretty
obvious that it has a more modern silhouette with a waistline that rises more
prominently towards the rear, a Renault Clio-like rear end with horizontal
taillights and a smaller rear screen, a more profiled bonnet, and a front end
that seems to adopt sleeked horizontal headlights and a new grille.
Unfortunately, no photos of the interior are available, but a major overhaul
should happen inside too.
Speaking of the
Clio, the next-generation Sandero is expected to use the same CMF-B as
Renault’s supermini. However, the Dacia will get a slightly simpler version of
the architecture since the budget model won’t come with all the bells and
whistles of the 2020 Clio. Switching to the new platform will be a major leap
forward for the Sandero as this will make it roomier, safer, more enjoyable to
drive, and more sophisticated technologically. Rumor has it Dacia will even put
a hybrid powertrain in the 2020 Sandero, something the CMF-B platform makes
possible.
For now, there’s no
confirmation regarding the engine lineup, but the Sandero is expected to gain
Renault’s new 100 PS 1.0-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline
engine as a replacement for the 0.9-liter unit. In addition, the new 1.3-liter
TCe turbocharged four-cylinder with 115 PS should also be part of the
lineup. Finally, the 1.5-liter Blue dCi turbodiesel is expected to soldier on
with 95 PS, albeit upgraded with an SCR catalytic converter with AdBlue
injection to pass the latest emission standards.
The
third-generation Dacia Sandero should debut sometime in 2020 in both standard
and high-riding Stepway body styles.
