The Dacia Sandero III Stepway 1.0 TCe 90 (91 hp) CVT, introduced with the facelift in January 2022 and continuing through December 2025, represents an entry-level offering within the popular Sandero Stepway range. Positioned as a budget-friendly crossover, it aimed to provide enhanced practicality and a slightly more rugged aesthetic compared to the standard Sandero, while offering a continuously variable transmission (CVT) for ease of driving. This variant is primarily marketed in Europe, where Dacia has established itself as a value-focused brand. It builds upon the foundation of the third-generation Sandero (introduced in 2020), which utilizes the Renault-Nissan Alliance’s CMF-B platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Dacia |
| Model | Sandero |
| Generation | Sandero III Stepway (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.0 TCe 90 (91 Hp) CVT |
| Start of production | January, 2022 |
| End of production | December, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Crossover |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Combined fuel consumption (WLTP) | 5.8-6.2 l/100 km (40.6 – 37.9 US mpg, 48.7 – 45.6 UK mpg, 17.2 – 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (WLTP) | 131-140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 DFull |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.9 kg/Nm, 126.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 91 Hp @ 4500-5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 142 Nm @ 1750-4500 rpm (104.73 lb.-ft. @ 1750-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4D 470 |
| 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 | 1122 kg (2473.59 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1601 kg (3529.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 479 kg (1056.01 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) |
| 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 | automatic transmission CVT |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Hydro-pneumatic element, 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 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Sandero Stepway 1.0 TCe 90 CVT is the Renault-developed H4D 470 engine. This is a 999cc, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine. It utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine produces 91 horsepower at 4500-5000 rpm and 142 Nm (104.73 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 4500 rpm. The engine’s compact size and lightweight construction contribute to the vehicle’s overall efficiency. The CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) is a key component, offering smooth, stepless gear changes. While not known for sporty acceleration, the CVT prioritizes fuel economy and driving comfort. The engine meets Euro 6 DFull emissions standards, incorporating a particulate filter to reduce emissions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.0 TCe 90 CVT powertrain delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration is modest, with a focus on fuel efficiency rather than outright speed. The CVT transmission, while smooth, can sometimes feel disconnected from the engine, exhibiting a ‘rubber band’ effect during hard acceleration. The gear ratios are optimized for economy, meaning the engine often operates at lower RPMs during cruising. Compared to the more powerful 1.3 TCe engine offered in other Sandero Stepway variants, the 1.0 TCe feels noticeably less responsive. Manual transmission versions of the 1.0 TCe offer a more engaging driving experience, but the CVT provides greater convenience for urban driving and those prioritizing ease of use.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Sandero Stepway 1.0 TCe 90 CVT typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, a basic infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, electric front windows, and central locking. Safety features such as ABS, ESC (Electronic Stability Control), and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as the Prestige, added features like alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, rear parking sensors, and a reversing camera. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. Optional extras included metallic paint, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Sandero Stepway features a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent rear suspension with a torsion beam. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, well-suited for typical road conditions. The Stepway variant benefits from increased ground clearance compared to the standard Sandero, enhancing its ability to handle rougher terrain. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. This configuration is typical for vehicles in this price segment. Electric power steering provides light and easy steering feel, making it maneuverable in urban environments. The suspension is tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Dacia Sandero Stepway 1.0 TCe 90 CVT was generally well-received by critics as a practical and affordable crossover. Its fuel economy was a key selling point, and the CVT transmission was praised for its ease of use. However, some reviewers noted the engine’s lack of outright power and the CVT’s sometimes uninspiring driving experience. Compared to the 1.3 TCe variants, the 1.0 TCe offered lower running costs but less performance. Against competitors like the Hyundai i20 Active or Kia Rio X-Line, the Sandero Stepway offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting them on price while providing similar levels of practicality and equipment.
Legacy
The H4D 470 engine, while not known for being a high-performance unit, has proven to be relatively reliable. The CVT transmission, when properly maintained, is also generally durable. In the used car market, the Sandero Stepway 1.0 TCe 90 CVT represents a budget-friendly option for those seeking a practical and economical crossover. Its low running costs and relatively simple mechanicals make it an attractive choice for first-time buyers or those looking for a dependable and affordable vehicle. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limited power output and the CVT’s potential for a less engaging driving experience.
