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March 12, 2008

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DACIA Reveals Sandero, Its New Compact Hatchback

Paris - After the introduction of Logan, Logan MCV, Logan Van and Logan Pick-up, Dacia continues to broaden its range with the release of a generously-dimensioned, five-door hatchback: Sandero.

The newcomer is manufactured in Pitesti, Romania and benefits from all the fundamental qualities that have become a hallmark of the Dacia range, namely ample cabin space, a high load capacity and robust build. Dacia Sandero will progressively go on sale in the majority of European markets starting from June 2008 and, like other models in the Dacia range, will back up its unrivalled equipment/price ratio with a three-year /100,000km warranty in most European countries.

Dacia Sandero stands out as a modern hatchback with appealing looks that convey both dynamism and robustness. The front features modern, expressive headlamps and a grille and bumper that blend harmoniously with the bodywork. Its lateral lines form an “upturned wave” and underpin the impression of solidity, thanks notably to the broad side protective strips (according to version). The rear styling reinforces the sense of a generously proportioned, spacious and well-built vehicle.

Dacia Sandero is built on the same B0 platform as Logan which features MacPherson-type front suspension with wishbone. Certain versions also come with a front anti-roll bar which ensures excellent roadholding when cornering. Dacia Sandero's rear suspension is also derived from the B0 platform and comprises a programmed deflection torsion beam with coil springs and vertically-mounted, extended-travel dampers. The suspension package has been specially engineered for Dacia Sandero, including lower arm joints and a rear end which have been designed to deliver precise handling and good roadholding along sharply twisting roads. Like the Dacia range's other models, Sandero boasts high ground clearance (155mm) which means it is able take all types of road in its stride, both in and out of town, a factor that contributes further to its versatility. The new car also benefits from underbody protection which allows it to tackle unsealed surfaces with ease.

Power steering is naturally available for most versions to ensure safe, precise steering and a degree of driving pleasure worthy of a B-segment vehicle. The entry-level version comes without power steering with a view to keeping its price at a reasonable level. The slightly higher steering ratio compared with Clio II and work on the hub carrier and castor angle has resulted in a reduction in the effort required to turn the steering wheel.

Dacia Sandero is available with a choice of two petrol engines (1.4l 75hp and 1.6l 90hp) and two diesel engines (1.5 dCi 70hp and 1.5 dCi 85hp) which have already proven their worth on numerous other vehicles in the Renault family and which have actively contributed to the success of the Dacia range.

The 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines are a perfect match for the cost, robustness and ease of maintenance values championed by the Dacia brand, and both are renowned for the availability of high torque at low engine speeds, as well as across a broad rev-band. The benchmark 1.5 dCi is acclaimed as one of the world's most efficient diesel engines. Its advanced technology includes second-generation common rail direct injection which delivers high performance and very low fuel consumption. The 1.5 dCi engine is available in 70hp form and also a punchier 85hp version which was launched in September 2007 on Dacia Logan and Dacia Logan MCV. Low CO2 emissions of 120g ensure an attractive ecological footprint for the 1.5 dCi engines of Dacia Sandero.

To ensure that customers are immediately aware of this high level of quality, Dacia Sandero comes with a threeyear/100,000km warranty in the majority of its European markets. Dacia Sandero also stands out through its low servicing and repair costs. Dacia will make available a dedicated offer for Sandero customers both in terms of finance and after-sale services.

Photo: Renault

(4 March 2008)


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