Renault Group’s budget-focused brand, Dacia, is making headlines once again with a series of comprehensive updates across its entire model lineup. The brand, known for its practical and affordable cars, has given a fresh facelift to the Sandero hatchback, Sandero Stepway crossover, Logan sedan, and Jogger crossover estate. These revisions introduce a sharper and more contemporary look, upgraded interior features, and new powertrain options—all while keeping the core Dacia philosophy of value-oriented simplicity intact. Since the debut of the latest Sandero and Logan in 2020, followed by the Jogger in 2021, Dacia has continued to evolve at a steady pace. A new corporate emblem appeared in 2022, enhanced safety technologies arrived in 2024, and the latest refresh now takes the brand’s budget recipe to a slightly higher level of sophistication. The end result is a range that remains affordable yet looks and feels more refined, continuing to outperform many more expensive competitors across Europe.
From the outside, the design may appear familiar at first glance, but several thoughtful refinements make a noticeable difference. The front end features slimmer LED lights, a redesigned grille, and reshaped bumpers that lend a more modern and cohesive character. Dacia’s signature Y-shaped daytime running lights have been replaced by a sleeker, lightning-inspired motif that is mirrored in the taillights with clear lenses. The Sandero and Logan gain more sculpted front intakes, while the Stepway and Jogger show their adventurous side with rugged skid plates and additional body cladding. Interestingly, this protective plastic is now made from a partially recycled composite called Starkle, underscoring Dacia’s growing environmental awareness. Buyers can also choose from new alloy wheel designs and two fresh paint colors—Amber Yellow and Sandstone—adding a welcome splash of personality.
Inside, Dacia’s designers have clearly focused on improving perceived quality without pushing costs too high. Higher-spec trims now feature a 10-inch infotainment touchscreen, while entry-level models retain the clever smartphone docking system that many users find surprisingly convenient. The 7-inch digital instrument cluster has been upgraded with clearer graphics, and the new steering wheel gives off a sturdier feel. Added conveniences such as a wireless phone charger, the modular YouClip mounting system, and more durable seat fabrics contribute to an overall sense of practicality and comfort.
Safety technology has also seen a notable boost. Every model now meets the latest European ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) regulations, with enhancements like a better automatic emergency braking system and an upgraded driver attention alert. Dacia has introduced a new “My Safety” button that lets drivers customize the level of assistance to their liking. For those seeking even more features, the optional Driving Pack adds automatic headlights, a surround-view camera, and electrically folding mirrors to the upper Journey and Extreme trims.
Mechanically, the familiar CMF-B platform continues to underpin the range, shared with several Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi models. However, the big mechanical news is the arrival of a new Hybrid 155 system borrowed from the larger Duster and upcoming Bigster SUVs. This setup pairs a 1.8-liter four-cylinder gasoline engine with two electric motors, a compact 1.4 kWh battery, and a clutchless automatic transmission, delivering a combined 153 horsepower and 170 Nm of torque. According to Dacia, it can operate in electric mode for up to 80 percent of urban journeys, though real-world results may vary. The hybrid powertrain debuts in the Jogger and will later expand to the Stepway by late 2026.
The rest of the lineup offers familiar but refined engine options. The Eco-G 120 variant features a new turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 118 hp, capable of running on both gasoline and LPG. With an enlarged LPG tank, the total driving range extends impressively to nearly 1,590 kilometers between refueling stops. The Sandero and Logan also come with a basic 1.0-liter unit rated at 64 hp or a turbocharged version with 99 hp, while the Stepway and Jogger offer a 109 hp iteration of the same engine. Transmission choices include both six-speed manual and six-speed dual-clutch automatic options.
Although official prices have not been revealed, Dacia promises that its facelifted lineup delivers “even greater value for money.” The Sandero remains Europe’s top-selling retail car, with 309,392 units sold in 2024, two-thirds of which were Stepway models. Dacia’s latest refresh proves that affordability and practicality can still go hand in hand with style and modern technology—staying true to the brand’s identity while keeping its appeal stronger than ever.