The Dacia Sandero III Stepway 1.0 ECO-G 100, produced from September 2022 to December 2025, represents a significant offering in the budget-friendly crossover segment. This variant, powered by a three-cylinder, 1.0-liter turbocharged engine capable of running on both gasoline and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG), was positioned as an efficient and economical choice within the Stepway lineup. The Stepway itself is a more rugged-looking variant of the standard Sandero, featuring increased ground clearance and protective body cladding, appealing to buyers seeking a vehicle with a hint of adventure capability. This particular engine and transmission combination aimed to balance affordability with acceptable performance and fuel economy.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dacia |
| Model | Sandero |
| Generation | Sandero III Stepway (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 ECO-G 100 (91/101 Hp) LPG |
| Start of production | September, 2022 |
| End of production | December, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.4-5.8 l/100 km (43.6 – 40.6 US mpg, 52.3 – 48.7 UK mpg, 18.5 – 17.2 km/l) |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) (LPG) | 7.0-7.4 l/100 km |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 122-130 g/km |
| CO2 emissions (LPG) (WLTP) | 108-115 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Maximum speed (LPG) | 177 km/h |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 DFull |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp, 80.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 141.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 91 Hp @ 4800-5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.1 Hp/l |
| Power (LPG) | 101 Hp @ 4600-5000 rpm |
| Power per litre (LPG) | 101.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 2100-3750 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 2100-3750 rpm) |
| Torque (LPG) | 170 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4D 480 |
| Engine displacement | 999 cm3 (60.96 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.1 l (4.33 US qt | 3.61 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1134-1154 kg (2500.04 – 2544.13 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1618 kg (3567.08 lbs.) |
| Max load | 464-484 kg (1022.94 – 1067.04 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 328 l (11.58 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1108 l (39.13 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Fuel tank capacity (LPG) | 40 l |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Length | 4099 mm (161.38 in.) |
| Width | 1848 mm (72.76 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2007 mm (79.02 in.) |
| Height | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2604 mm (102.52 in.) |
| Front track | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1509 mm (59.41 in.) |
| Front overhang | 830 mm (32.68 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 666 mm (26.22 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.39 m (34.09 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Hydraulic elements, Semi-dependent beam with stabilizer lateral stability |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 92H |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Dacia Sandero III Stepway 1.0 ECO-G 100, launched in September 2022 as part of the facelift for the third-generation Sandero, is a compact crossover designed to offer affordability and practicality. Built on the 1HX0/A3 platform shared with Renault models, the Stepway variant distinguishes itself with a raised ride height, protective cladding, and a more robust appearance. This particular version, equipped with the 1.0 ECO-G engine and a six-speed manual transmission, was aimed at buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and lower running costs, particularly in markets where LPG is readily available and incentivized. It served as an entry-level to mid-range option within the Stepway lineup, positioned below the more powerful gasoline variants.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Sandero III Stepway 1.0 ECO-G 100 is the H4D 480 engine, a 999cc three-cylinder turbocharged unit. This engine utilizes multi-point fuel injection and an intercooled turbocharger to deliver a respectable 91 horsepower (with up to 101 hp when running on LPG). The engine’s design emphasizes efficiency, with features like a relatively high compression ratio and optimized combustion chamber geometry. The LPG system is factory-installed, allowing seamless switching between gasoline and LPG operation. The six-speed manual transmission was the sole gearbox option for this variant, chosen for its efficiency and lower cost compared to an automatic. The transmission features a conventional shift linkage and is geared towards maximizing fuel economy rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 ECO-G 100 Stepway offers a driving experience focused on practicality and economy. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.3 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 11.9 seconds, making it adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The turbocharger provides a noticeable boost in power, but the engine’s small displacement means it needs to be revved to extract the most performance. The manual transmission is light and easy to use, but the gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning frequent shifting is often required, especially when climbing hills or overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 1.3-liter gasoline versions, the 1.0 ECO-G feels noticeably slower, but the LPG system provides a slight power increase when running on alternative fuel. The Stepway’s raised suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road well.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sandero III Stepway 1.0 ECO-G 100 typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, power front windows, and central locking. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels offered additional features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, rear parking sensors, and cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a durable and practical design. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use over luxury.
Chassis & Braking
The Sandero III Stepway utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent rear suspension with a torsion beam. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums, a cost-saving measure common in this segment. The electric power steering provides light and easy steering, making it well-suited for urban driving. The Stepway’s increased ground clearance, compared to the standard Sandero, enhances its ability to tackle rough roads and uneven surfaces.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dacia Sandero III Stepway 1.0 ECO-G 100 was generally well-received by critics for its affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality. It was praised as a sensible choice for buyers seeking a low-cost crossover. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power and the somewhat basic interior. Compared to other trims in the Sandero lineup, the 1.0 ECO-G offered the lowest purchase price and the best fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. Its LPG capability was a significant selling point in markets with favorable LPG pricing and infrastructure. Against competitors like the Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio, the Sandero Stepway offered a more rugged appearance and a lower price point, but often lacked the refinement and features of its rivals.
Legacy
The 1.0 ECO-G engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, with few widespread mechanical issues reported. The LPG system, when properly maintained, adds to the engine’s longevity and reduces running costs. On the used car market, the Sandero III Stepway 1.0 ECO-G 100 represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking an affordable and economical crossover. Its simple design and readily available parts contribute to relatively low maintenance costs. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, it remains a practical and dependable choice for everyday transportation.
