Dacia Sandero Stepway: New Small Crossover Revealed in Barcelona

The Barcelona Auto Show saw Renault's low-cost Romanian brand, Dacia swiping off the covers from the Sandero Stepway, a small hatchback with raised ground clearance but no all-wheel drive system as the crossover retains the standard Sandero's front-wheel drive layout. If the Sandero Stepway reminds you of another model, give yourself a pat on the back because it's essentially the European version of the South American market, Renault Sandero Stepway - 'oui', the French automaker didn't even bother changing names.

Dacia Sandero Stepway - Auto Cars 2011The Stepway features a 20mm higher road clearance than the conventional Sandero hatchback while cosmetic upgrades include black and body-colored bumpers housing front and rear skid-plates, new fog lamps and roofbars plus protective cladding around the wheel arches and satin-finish chrome rocker panels, exterior mirrors and door handles.

While we don't have any photos of the interior, Dacia claims in its press release that the Stepway benefits from specific black upholstery with visible white stitching and revised trim.

Depending on the market, the Sandero Stepway will be available with a 90HP 1.6-liter petrol and a 70HP 1.5-liter dCi diesel engine. Sales of Dacia's new model will begin in most European countries this September.

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