The Dacia Sandero II 1.5 dCi (90 hp) Start&Stop Easy-R FAP was a popular variant of the second-generation Sandero, produced between 2015 and 2016. Positioned as an entry-level diesel option, it aimed to provide fuel efficiency and affordability within the Sandero II range, which was based on the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with Renault. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where demand for economical diesel hatchbacks remained strong. The “Easy-R” designation refers to Dacia’s automated manual transmission, offering a degree of convenience without the cost of a traditional automatic.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dacia |
| Model | Sandero |
| Generation | Sandero II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) Start&Stop Easy-R FAP |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 3.8 l/100 km (61.9 US mpg, 74.3 UK mpg, 26.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6 l/100 km (65.3 US mpg, 78.5 UK mpg, 27.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 92 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp, 82.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 202 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 61.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1750 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 612 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1089 kg (2400.83 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Max load | 511 kg (1126.56 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 320 l (11.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1200 l (42.38 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4057 mm (159.72 in.) |
| Width | 1733 mm (68.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1984 mm (78.11 in.) |
| Height | 1523 mm (59.96 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2589 mm (101.93 in.) |
| Front track | 1497 mm (58.94 in.) |
| Rear track | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Front overhang | 818 mm (32.2 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 650 mm (25.59 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 163 mm (6.42 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.68 m (35.04 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission Easy-R |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring, Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 258×22 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum, 203 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Sandero variant is the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s K9K 612 engine, a 1.5-liter inline-four diesel. This engine is well-known for its robustness and fuel efficiency. The K9K utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at high pressure for optimized combustion. It’s equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to boost power output. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The Start&Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The “FAP” designation indicates the presence of a diesel particulate filter, crucial for meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The Easy-R transmission is a 6-speed automated manual gearbox. It’s essentially a conventional manual transmission with robotic actuators controlling the clutch and gear changes. While offering some of the convenience of an automatic, it can sometimes exhibit slower and less smooth shifts compared to a traditional torque converter automatic.
Driving Characteristics
With 90 horsepower and 220 Nm (162 lb-ft) of torque, the Sandero II 1.5 dCi Easy-R offered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took around 11.4 seconds, and top speed was approximately 107 mph. The Easy-R transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy rather than outright speed. The torque delivery was relatively strong at lower RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. However, the automated manual transmission could sometimes feel hesitant during gear changes, particularly during quick acceleration. Compared to the more powerful 1.5 dCi 110 hp version, this 90 hp variant felt noticeably slower. Manual transmission versions of the 90 hp engine offered a more engaging driving experience and slightly improved fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.5 dCi (90 hp) Start&Stop Easy-R FAP typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power steering, electric front windows, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and front airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like air conditioning, alloy wheels, rear electric windows, and a trip computer. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was straightforward and easy to use.
Chassis & Braking
The Sandero II featured a MacPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. This configuration was typical for vehicles in this price segment. The steering was electrically assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort over handling, making it well-suited for urban driving and long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dacia Sandero II 1.5 dCi (90 hp) Start&Stop Easy-R FAP was well-received by critics for its affordability and fuel efficiency. It was often praised as a practical and economical choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, the Easy-R transmission received mixed reviews, with some critics finding it slow and jerky. Compared to the 1.5 dCi 110 hp version, the 90 hp variant offered lower running costs but sacrificed some performance. The 1.5 dCi 90 hp manual was often considered a better option for drivers who prioritized a more engaging driving experience.
Legacy
The K9K engine has proven to be a reliable and durable unit, and many examples are still on the road today. The Easy-R transmission, however, has a reputation for being less reliable than traditional automatic gearboxes, with some owners reporting issues with the robotic actuators. In the used car market, the 1.5 dCi (90 hp) Start&Stop Easy-R FAP remains an affordable option, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential issues with the transmission and ensure it has been properly maintained. Overall, this variant represents a practical and economical choice for those seeking a fuel-efficient hatchback.
