Brazil is probably one of the most important emerging markets for French carmaker Renault, thanks to the transportation needs of an ever-growing middle class. It's thus not surprising to see they've badge-engineered the Dacia Sanero, making it into a practical and affordable subcompact hatchback that suits local conditions.
The new Sandero is available from R$ 29.890 to R$ 42.390 (€9,840 and €13,955)and features a number of differences over its Dacia counterpart. The biggest change is of course the new front bumper and grille, matching those on the Renault Logan also sold in Brazil. They have softer features, a large diamond badge that dominates the design and distinctive chrome elements surrounding the fog lights.
The engine choices for Brazilian hatch are also a little different to the European ones. Base Authentique and Expression models get a new 1.0-liter four-cylinder engine with 16 valvs called "Hi-Power". It produces 80 hp, is compatible with ethanol fuel and gets an "A" emissions and economy sticker according to Brazilian regulations. Fuel consumption is 8.1 km/l with ethanol and 11.9 km/l with gasoline in the urban cycle.
The other engine offered is a 1.6-liter Hi-Power fitted to the high-grade Expression and Dynamique, also compatible with ethanol fuel, but only fitted with an 8-valve head. It produces 98 hp on gasoline and 106 hp running on ethanol.
The Sandero is a practical car, offering 320 liters of boot space with the rear bench in place or 1,196 liters with it folded. Standard equipment includes two airbags, ABS and central locking. Options include parking sensors Media NAV 1.2, the automatic air conditioning system from the Clio and a body kit that includes spoilers and side skirts on models fitted with the 1.6-liter engine.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
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