PARIS - Dacia moves its core models, Sandero, Stepway and Logan more upmarket with better interiors and exterior tweaks.

• Refreshed styling for Dacia’s core models – the Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Logan MCV and, in certain European markets, Logan. These models are now more modern and more attractive than ever
• The new entry-level three-cylinder petrol engine – the 1.0-litre SCe 75 – is modern, more economical and Euro6 compliant
• Dacia sales have continued to climb ever since the brand’s relaunch in 2004
• At the end of August 2016 Dacia set a new sales record with more than 391,000 units sold worldwide YTD – an increase of 7.3 per cent compared to 2015
• New Dacia models to go on sale in the UK at the start of 2017

WHAT’S NEW AT THE 2016 PARIS MOTOR SHOW

Dacia has refreshed the design of its three signature models: the Sandero, Sandero Stepway, Logan MCV and, in certain European markets, Logan. A wide range of engine options (including the new SCe 75) is also available, along with a choice of transmissions and new affordable equipment options. Meanwhile, the Duster can be equipped for the first time with EDC (Efficient Dual Clutch) automatic transmission for an even more enjoyable drive. 

New Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Logan MCV… always more

Dacia has refreshed the exterior and interior design of its three signature models, namely the Logan MCV, the Sandero and the Sandero Stepway. These enhancements embody Dacia‘s new, more assertive and even more modern lighting signature.

Exterior styling: even more modern and attractive

Dacia design is on the move. The models display a new lighting signature front and rear^[1] for an even more dynamic, contemporary look. The design of the front and rear lights has been revised. The front LED daytime running lights feature a pattern of three stacked rectangles. The rear lighting signature is based on three illuminated squares.

The new Logan MCV and the new Sandero all share a more modern front bumper design, along with chrome detailing for the air intake grille. Meanwhile, the design of the front and rear bumpers^[2] has been reworked to emphasise the models’ muscular stance.

These design enhancements are shown to particularly powerful effect on the new Sandero Stepway. This model has a new frontal identity which picks up on the design cues of the Duster. The grille elegantly combines the black tones of the bumper with chrome detailing which brings an even more dynamic touch to the vehicle’s nose. At the rear, a chromed exhaust tailpipe highlights the car’s tough, ready-for-action character.

Last but not least, the brand’s range of wheel trims and alloy wheels has been updated (depending on individual markets and models).

Status-enhancing interior

The cabins of the new models have been upgraded, too, including a more elegant and more contemporary satin-effect chrome finish for the air vent surrounds, trim strip and centre console fascia. The new four-spoke steering wheel has the horn push in the centre and proudly displays the Dacia logo. The steering wheel on high-end versions stands out through its exclusive Soft Feel finish that is both durable and pleasant to the touch.

On the new Sandero Stepway, the interior door releases are now chrome plated. Models across the range come with new upholstery fabrics with textures and patterns that convey both a fresher feel and an impression of comfort. The upholstery of new Sandero Stepway features a 3D weave for a greater sensation of depth, enhanced by top-stitching.

Even more extensively equipped but still at an affordable price

The new Logan MCV, new Sandero and new Sandero Stepway feature new driver aids designed to make driving even easier and more practical. A reversing camera (depending on version) and Hill Start Assist simplify manoeuvring and, in response to customer feedback, Dacia has relocated the front and rear electric window switches to the door panels. For the driver, the window switch has a handy one-touch function, while comfort is further enhanced by a retractable armrest incorporated into the driver’s seat (depending on version).

The cabin is as spacious as ever and even more practical thanks numerous stowage spaces, including a front mobile phone cubby hole and a tray on the side of the console to accommodate small items. The new centre console design incorporates a bottle holder at the rear. Also new is a 12-volt power socket which allows rear passengers to charge mobile devices.

A new engine, the SCe 75

Seven different powertrains are available from launch, including the new, Euro 6-compliant SCe 75. This 75-horsepower, three-cylinder, 1.0-litre unit has benefited from Renault’s expertise. The result is a CO₂ emissions and fuel consumption saving of almost 10 per cent^[3] .

Dacia offers a broad range of engine-transmission combinations:

• Petrol: SCe 75 / TCe 90 with Stop&Start (S&S) / TCe 90 S&S LPG / TCe 90 S&S mated to Easy-R automated manual transmission.
• Diesel: dCi 75 S&S / dCi 90 S&S with either a manual gearbox or Easy-R automated manual transmission.

DACIA SALES CONTINUE TO CLIMB

Since its revival in 2004, Dacia has soldmore than four million vehicles, mainly in Europe and the Mediterranean region. Dacia set a new sales record at the end of August 2016, selling more than 391,000 units and reporting a 7.3 per cent increase in sales. Its market share increases in Europe +0.1 point (2.5%), in Eurasia + 0.1 point (7.9%) and + 1.7 point in Maghreb (17.8%). Dacia remains a hugely popular brand among its customers.

Record sales

At end-August 2016, Dacia had sold 391,098 units globally, a gain of 7.3 per cent. No fewer than 27 of the 44 markets where the Dacia brand is sold set markets share or sales records as of end-August 2016.

• In Europe, Dacia’s sales totalled 288,477 units – a new record and an increase of 12.5 per cent. The Sandero is Europe’s third best-B-segment selling vehicle to retail customers^[4]. The Dacia Duster is the second best-selling C-segment vehicle to retail customers in Europe.
• In France, Dacia reported a 12.3 per cent rise in sales to 77,671 vehicles and set a new record for passenger car sales. The brand beat its existing record for passenger car sales, with more than 76,000 registrations. Sales of the Sandero climbed by 26.7 per cent and the model moved up three spots in the French rankings. The Sandero was the second top-selling car to retail customers.
• In other European countries, Dacia saw its sales increase by 12.6 per cent to 210,806 units. In Italy, the brand posted record sales of 38,316 units, up 18.2 per cent. New records were also set in Spain (39,192 units) and Poland (13,381 units), where Dacia reported its highest-ever market share at 4.3 per cent. Dacia also posted record market share in the Czech Republic at 4.8 per cent.
• In Morocco, Dacia’s sales grew by 21.9 per cent to 28,327 units. The brand was still in the lead in the passenger car and LCV market combined, scoring a 26.4 per cent market share.
• In Turkey, with 26,984 sales, Dacia still beat its previous records for market share (up 4.7 per cent).

Active in 44 countries, Dacia aims to build on recent new model releases in its mainstream range to boost its popularity.

For more than 10 years, the Dacia brand has stood out as a major player in the car market thanks to its straightforward policy of manufacturing attractive models that provide real value for money for the equipment they feature.

Dacia customers keep close contact with the brand

Dacia customers show their commitment to the brand on Facebook, which has a community of more than three million Dacia fans. Dacia Picnics are now a tradition and each year attract several thousand people in a number of different countries.

Customer loyalty has driven the brand’s commercial success. On June 26, more than 11,000 customers attended Dacia’s eighth annual picnic in France. Similar events held in Denmark and Germany attracted 3,000 people and 5,500 people, respectively. In the UK, the Dacia Day is into its fourth year where everyone enjoys a friendly atmosphere and a fun-packed day.

Dacia will unveil the slightly enhanced Sandero, sandero Stepway and Logan MCV at this years Paris Motor Show.

• Dacia will introduce three new models at the Paris Motor Show: Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Logan MCV
• Models have been redesigned to meet Dacia customers’ expectations
• Distinctive new front end and lighting signature shown for the first time
• The new models will be revealed in full at the Paris Motor Show Dacia press conference on Thursday, 29 September at 10:45 CET

The Paris Motor Show provides an opportunity for Dacia to celebrate another year of new sales records and share changes made to the range line up, including: the New Sandero, Sandero Stepway and Logan MCV, which are more attractive than ever, but still the most affordable new cars in Europe.

Dacia unveils its new models

To the exterior, the front end has been reconfigured on all three models, giving a recognisable Dacia family look. The updated bumper, grille, and air vents confirm the robust nature of the range. 

The new lights, which now use LEDs, are more elegant and modern looking. They form four rectangles, creating the new Dacia lighting signature. The rear lights have also been redesigned in the same spirit. The interior has also received updates to the features, materials, ergonomics, storage areas, and more.

The new models redesigned from the inside out, including powertrains will be unveiled at the Dacia press conference at Paris Motor Show on Thursday, 29 September at 10:45 CET in Hall 1 at the Dacia stand.

This conference will be led by Jean-Christophe Kugler, Executive Vice President and Chairman of the Europe Region.

Dacia turns up the heat with some tempting offers for the 66 Plate Change next month.

• Enhanced offers across Dacia’s multiple award-winning line-up
• Free upgrade to five-year/60,000 mile warranty with all offers
• Deposit contributions increased to £750 on Sandero Stepway and £650 on Sandero
• £750 deposit contribution on Duster and £500 deposit contribution on Logan MCV
• Seven-year/100,000 mile warranty upgrade now only £395

Dacia is giving car buyers even more of a reason to choose its award-winning range with a host of enhanced customer offers – just in time for the new ‘66’-registration.

With its latest finance offers, the ‘shockingly affordable’ brand is increasing its deposit contributions on its affordable Dacia Dimensions finance scheme to £650 and £750 on the Sandero and Sandero Stepway respectively. The Logan MCV and the Duster also continue to be available with customer deposit contributions – £500 for the versatile estate car and £750 for the rugged Duster SUV.

The Dacia Dimensions PCP offers are available on all trim levels (excluding Access) and continue the ‘no-nonsense’ brand’s approach to offering its customers outstanding value.

In addition, customers who take advantage of the Dacia Dimensions PCP offers also enjoy the reassurance of five years’ care-free motoring with a complimentary five-year/60,000 mile warranty on their new Dacia – a free upgrade from three years/60,000 miles, worth £395 when bought separately.

Winner of the What Car? ‘Best Small Car for less than £12,000’ for four consecutive years, and the lowest priced new car on sale today, the popular Sandero five-door hatchback can be purchased through a four-year PCP package from £94 per month with a deposit of £577¹. 

This offer applies to the 1.2 Ambiance version, which as standard includes Bluetooth^™ and USB connectivity, electric front windows, remote central locking, daytime running lights and ESC/ASR (Electronic Stability Control & Traction Control).

Stylish and well-equipped, the five-door Sandero Stepway crossover is available from £104 per month after a customer deposit of £1,451. Also a four-year PCP, this particular offer is available on the Ambiance TCe 90 version that boasts such features as integrated satellite-navigation, MP3-compatible CD player with Bluetooth^™connectivity, electric windows, parking sensors and air conditioning.

The UK’s most affordable new estate car and winner of the Family Car category in the Auto Express Driver Power 2016 Awards, the Logan MCV can be owned through a four-year PCP offer from £104 per month with a deposit of £1,210. This specific offer is available on the 1.2 Ambiance Logan MCV, the versatile estate car combining a useful boot space of 573 litres with equipment that includes remote central locking, electric front windows, Bluetooth^™ and USB connectivity.

Also on a four-year PCP offer, the spacious and comfortable Duster SUV is available from £154 per month with a deposit of £853. This Duster offer is on the Ambiance SCe version, which is powered by a 1.6 115 bhp engine, and as standard includes ESC (Electronic Stability Control) with ASR (Traction Control), 16-inch wheels, height adjustable driver’s seat, front fog lights, 4x20w DAB/FM/AM tuner with steering column-mounted fingertip controls, remote central locking, electric front windows, Bluetooth^™ and USB connectivity.

For even more peace of mind and representing even greater value, customers can upgrade from the complimentary five-year/60,000 mile warranty to a seven-year/100,000 mile warranty for a one-off fee of just £395 RRP – a saving of £455 over the usual price².

Since Dacia launched in the UK in 2013, the brand has won multiple awards. Notably, it was rated 4^th best car manufacturer for ownership satisfaction in the 2016 Which? Car Guide and the Auto Express Driver Power ownership survey has placed Dacia in its top five best manufacturers for three consecutive years. Dacia was also voted number two in the 2016 Auto Express Driver Power Dealer Aftersales Satisfaction survey, while the Dacia Sandero has been awarded the title of “Best Small Car under £12,000” by What Car? for four consecutive years (2016, 2015, 2014, 2013). The Dacia Duster was also named TopGear magazine’s “Bargain of the Year 2012” at launch.

Dacia owners invited to the UK’s fourth Dacia Day to take place at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome.

• Dacia owners invited to the UK’s fourth Dacia Day
• Dacia Day to take place at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome, Leicestershire on 13^th August 2016
• Free day out for all the family promises to be the biggest yet
• Guests invited to try out new skills in falconry and archery amongst many other activities
• Builds on huge popularity of Dacia Picnics running since 2008 on the continent
• Entire Dacia range available to test drive – including Duster on a 4x4 course

Dacia is inviting owners from across the United Kingdom to the fourth annual Dacia Day, taking place on 13^thAugust at Bruntingthorpe Aerodrome, Leicestershire. The free event, exclusively for Dacia owners will offer opportunities to meet with other passionate Dacia owners and a fun day out for the whole family.

Organised in conjunction with the Dacia Forum, an independent website for Dacia owners in the UK, attendees can enjoy an active family day out by trying their skills at archery and falconry, experience Rugby League up close with an opportunity to take a look around the new Duster Rugby League special editions, test drive each Dacia model – including the Duster on a dedicated 4x4 off-road course, and tickle their taste buds at a cake emporium for those with a sweet tooth. 

There will also be a bouncy castle area for the younger members of the family. The fun day out for all of the family also includes a tour around the Aerodrome’s amazing selection of historic aircraft.

Louise O’Sullivan, Head of Dacia UK, said: “Dacia Day promises to be a fun-filled free event with something for everyone. 

We love to see all of our customers enjoying themselves and many look forward to sharing experiences with other Dacia owners. 

A strong sense of community is one of the reasons why owners rate Dacia so highly so we’re really pleased to be involved with this fourth annual Dacia Day.  

We encourage everyone to bring a picnic with them and to make the most of the day!”

Dacia Day follows on from the popular and long-running ‘Dacia Picnic’ events across Europe, where Dacia owners meet for an enjoyable family day out with activities, socialising and picnics. 

The first Dacia Picnic was held in France in 2008 and they encourage customers and their families to enjoy a day full of events such as volleyball, football, sailing, photo booths and workshops. Dacia organises these events across the world to thank its enthusiastic customers and ever-growing community.

Dacia owners can register to attend by visiting www.info.dacia.co.uk/daciaday

Dacia has proven very popular with owners and critics alike since launching just over three years ago.  What Car? magazine have rated the Sandero ‘Best Small Car under £12,000’ for four consecutive years.  

One of the UK’s largest automotive owner satisfaction studies, Auto Express Driver Power, has placed Dacia in its top five best manufacturers for three consecutive years, out of 32 brands featured in the 2016 survey, with customers praising the brand’s reliability in particular. 

In the separate 2016 Auto Express Driver Power Dealer Aftersales Satisfaction survey customers rated Dacia as second overall in the industry for dealer service – ahead of all premium and luxury brands.  Dacia was ranked fourth out of 34 brands for customer satisfaction, with a 90 per cent satisfaction score, in the 2016 Which? Car survey.

The Dacia range comprises the Sandero five-door hatchback, available in three trim levels with a choice of two petrol engines and one diesel engine. Pricing starts from £5,995, making it the most affordable new car on sale in the UK today. 

The Sandero Stepway is the UK’s most affordable crossover – priced from £8,495.  It combines hatchback practicality with SUV looks and is available in two trim levels with a choice of a petrol or diesel engine.

The versatile Dacia Logan MCV is available in three trim levels and comes with a choice of three engines, including a diesel option that returns up to 80.7mpg (NEDC combined cycle). The Logan MCV is priced from £6,995 OTR.  

The multiple award-winning Duster is the most affordable SUV on the UK market today – priced from £9,495. Duster is available in a choice of three trim levels, with 1.6-litre petrol or 1.5-litre dCi diesel engines and in 4x2 or 4x4 set-ups.

Over 78,000 Dacia models have been sold in the UK since its launch in January 2013. More than four million Dacias have been sold since Groupe Renault reintroduced the brand in Europe in 2004.

Dacia's Parent, Renault, took the #1 spot in the After sales service Survey, Dacia takes #2, well deserved too.

• Dacia voted number two in 2016 Auto Express Driver Power Dealer Aftersales Satisfaction survey
• Eleven place rise from 13^th in 2015 for Dacia in UK’s leading dealer satisfaction survey
• Dacia ranked ahead of many more established and premium brands
• Impressive survey results from Groupe Renault UK – Renault rated number one

Dacia has been voted number two in the 2016 Auto Express Driver Power Dealer Aftersales Satisfaction survey, proving that you can have incredible value-for-money and an outstanding ownership experience – ahead even of many luxury and premium brands.

The ‘shockingly affordable’ brand recorded a score of 93.7 per cent overall satisfaction from customers and rises up eleven places from its 13^th ranking in 2015.

The brand, known for its value-for-money range, made its debut in the leading dealer survey in 2014 and since then has improved each year. The results in the 2016 Auto Express Driver Power Dealer After Sales Satisfaction survey complement Dacia’s ranking in the publication’s earlier vehicle ownership survey, where it finished in fourth overall, out of 31 marques, with the Logan MCV estate topping the Family Car category.  

Brian Walters, Director, Research and Insights at Driver Powersaid: "Dacia, like its sister brand Renault, improved in all six of the dealer-related attributes, most dramatically in keeping its customers informed on progress and cost of work and the technical knowledge of its workshop employees. Dacia continues to offer the highest rated franchised dealer aftersales experience when it comes to value for money."

Mark Crockett, Director of Total Customer Experience, Groupe Renault UK, commented: “Dacia’s vast improvement over last year shows how the brand has really struck a chord with customers by sticking to its core values of no-nonsense motoring, affordability and value for money. It’s gratifying to see that owners are not only happy with their vehicle but also with the service at Dacia dealerships, too.

“Dacia’s unrivalled value for money in the UK complements its top quality customer service throughout the car’s lifespan which will continue as the brand grows.”

The result is partly attributed to the redefinition of the Groupe Renault UK Services and Quality division in early 2016 to two new departments: Total Customer Experience (TCE) and After Sales. TCE supports a further emphasis on customer experience and performance and demonstrates the brand’s collective commitment to positively driving customer experience throughout the business and its dealer network. The TCE team is now also complemented by a new Customer Journey team in order to deliver the best possible Renault experience to customers, whilst After Sales now has a renewed focus on the commercial operations of parts, accessories, options and services functions.

The Dacia brand is no stranger to winning awards with Auto Express Driver Power placing Dacia in its top five best manufacturers for three consecutive years – out of 32 brands featured in the 2016 survey, with customers in particular praising the brand’s reliability. Most recently, Dacia was ranked fourth out of 34 brands for customer satisfaction with a 90 per cent satisfaction score in the 2016 Which? Car survey. Since launching in the UK in just over three years ago, Dacia has won numerous awards, including What Car?’s ‘Best Small Car under £12,000’ for four consecutive years for the Sandero.

The Dacia range comprises of the Sandero five-door hatchback, available in three trim levels with a choice of two petrol engines and one diesel engine. Pricing starts from £5,995, making it the most affordable new car on sale in the UK today. The Sandero Stepway is the UK’s most affordable crossover – priced from £8,495.  It combines hatchback practicality with SUV looks and is available in two trim levels with a choice of a petrol or diesel engine. The versatile Dacia Logan MCV is available in three trim levels and comes with a choice of three engines, including a diesel option that returns up to 80.7mpg (NEDC combined cycle). The Logan MCV is priced from £6,995 OTR.  The multiple award-winning Duster is the most affordable SUV on the UK market today – priced from £9,495. Duster is available in a choice of three trim levels, with 1.6-litre petrol or 1.5-litre dCi diesel engines and in 4x2 or 4x4 set-ups.

In the ten years since relaunching in Europe, Dacia has sold more than four million vehicles in Europe. Over 78,000 Dacia models have been sold in the UK since its launch in January 2013.