MOTORING NEWS - Renault has replaced the current Sandero line-up with a completely revised new Sandero model range for 2017 with the flagship Stepway Dynamique 66kW turbo leading, followed by the mid-level Stepway Expression 66kW turbo and the entry-level Sandero Expression 66kW turbo variants.
When Sandero first entered the South African motoring landscape in February 2009, Renault's key objective was to provide a high-value proposition in the entry level passenger car segment.
The roomy, robust and affordable newcomer is still perfectly in tune with customer needs and market trends. Moreover the Sandero range meets the need for affordable motoring and outstanding value in a difficult economic climate.
Since 2009 well over 46 000 Sandero models have been sold in South Africa and Renault is looking forward to reaching the 50 000 milestone during 2017.
DESIGN
The exterior displays Renault's new front end design identity with the rand's new lighting signature now seen on all Renault's latest models:
C-shape daytime running lights (LED) plus C-shape rear lights. Both the front and rear bumpers have a new design.
The crossover styling is modern and refined with an integrated design including elements such as roof spoiler, roof bars, front and rear skid plates, wheel arches and front fog lights. The range's assertive stance is underscored by the fitment of 15" wheels (Sandero Expression) and 16" dark metal flex wheels (Stepway Expression and Dynamique models).
Inside, the watchword is 'quality' regarding finishes and materials used. There is a new look to the centre console, air vents, seat upholstery and power window switches on the door panels. The new steering wheel now has its hooter in the middle and one-touch indicators ergonomically placed for easier use.
There is generous space for occupants plus a luggage capacity which is best in class at 292 litres. A split rear bench which is standard across the range offers even more versatility and extended space.
EFFICIENT ECONOMY
Access to highly efficient and technologically advanced engines is proven by Renault's
F1-inspired three cylinder, 900cc petrol turbo 66kW engine. This compact new generation turbo power plant is standard across the line-up and represents the only turbo-powered model in its vehicle segment. The engine is highly efficient thanks to its lightweight aluminium engine block, low inertia turbo, variable valve timing, piloted
variable oil pump and lifetime engine chain.
Other benefits transferred from Formula 1 include diamond-like carbon coatings for engine components to reduce friction and high tumble strategy which means optimisation of engine internal aerodynamics to allow better combustion.
The engine is mated with a manual 5-speed gearbox offering low-end torque and maximum output of 66kW at 5 250rpm. The petrol turbo power plant delivers peak torque of 135Nm at 2 500rpm of which 90% is available from 1 650rpm. The Sandero sprints from 0 to 100km in just 11,1 seconds with a top speed of 169km/h.
The published fuel consumption figure for the Expression is 5,2 litres per 100km. Equally impressive is the supplied figure of 5,4 litres per 100km for the new Stepway Dynamique and Expression siblings. At 119g/km (Sandero) and 124g/km (Stepway), CO² emissions are low.
ON-BOARD
Standard features in the new Sandero range not seen in this vehicle segment are front power windows, remote central locking and ECO mode function. By modifying the engine's response at the push of a button, the mode function enables drivers to automatically optimise fuel consumption. It adjusts engine operation within acceptable limits and can reduce fuel consumption by as much as 12% depending on driving style and road conditions.
Standard features in the Stepway Dynamique model are: side airbags, front and rear power windows, electric side mirrors, a leather steering wheel and gear knob, as well as rear park assist. Cruise control and navigation are also standard which is unique in this vehicle segment.
The Stepway Dynamique comes standard with Renault MediaNav which is a comprehensive, integrated on-board multimedia system with 7" touch screen. Bluetooth connectivity enables safe, convenient and hands-free telephone use plus music streaming from portable external devices when on the go. This and the 2 DIN integrated radio/CD/MP3 with USB port, are accessed via fingertip controls located behind the steering wheel.
The navigation system with map mode will guide you to wherever you want to go - an address or place of interest - and keep a log history of your navigation favourites. The on-board computer also tracks and displays distance covered, average speed, fuel range, average and total fuel consumption.
PARTS PRICING
Sandero rated highly with regard to parts pricing and servicing costs since its introduction. In 2009, a mere eight months after launching, the Renault Sandero 1.6 swept the board in the B vehicle segment of Malcolm Kinsey's annual parts pricing survey, with comparative parts pricing on competitors' models between 61% and 188% higher. Kinsey's 2010 Report named Renault Sandero South Africa's most affordable car against eight competitor models.
In 2011, Renault Sandero continued its run remaining ahead of its peers on parts pricing for the third consecutive year.
Renault places emphasis on active safety as a means to avoid accidents and this is borne out by the fact that Sandero is the only car in its class to include EBA (coupled with ABS) and ESP (+ ASR) as standard across the range.
The new Sandero also offers outstanding passive safety features beyond its class. In addition to the front seat belts with load limiters and ISOFIX fasteners for child and baby seats, it is the only car in its category to offer a three-point safety belt at the central rear seat.
The Dynamique version is alone in the segment in offering front side airbags as standard.
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) comes with EBA which kicks in automatically to apply maximum brake pressure when emergency braking conditions are detected. Maximum pressure is applied from the onset of braking and remains until the ABS trigger threshold is reached. EBA shortens braking distance by up to nine metres at 120km.
DETAILS
The new Sandero and Stepway ranges come with Renault's five year or 150 000km warranty together with a standard two year or 30 000km service plan. Services are at 15 000km intervals. Renault's Gauteng-based parts and distribution division ensures that parts availability is running at 95% plus.
The recommended retail pricing: Renault Sandero Expression - R159 900 (66kW turbo); Renault Stepway Expression - R174 900 (66kW turbo); Renault Stepway Dynamique - R189 900 (66kW turbo). Optional: leather seats (Stepway Dynamique only) R10 000 and metallic paint R 2 500.
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