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Dacia Sandero Stepway: pros, cons, costs and common fixes
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by Whiz35 (11962 pt)
2025-May-23 21:26

Dacia Sandero Stepway – Model Year 2025


Country of Manufacture

The Dacia Sandero Stepway for Europe is produced at the Dacia plant in Mioveni, Romania.

Brief Description

The Dacia Sandero Stepway MY2025 is the crossover-styled version of the popular Sandero hatchback, designed to blend city practicality with a touch of off-road flair. The Stepway stands out with increased ground clearance (+37 mm vs Streetway), roof rails, chunky wheel arches, and unique bumpers. It is available in Essential, Expression, and Journey trims, with modern features such as 8" or 10" infotainment (depending on trim), wireless connectivity, keyless entry, and the new Journey trim that adds more comfort and tech. Boot space is generous at 328 liters (expandable to 1,108 liters), making it ideal for both urban and leisure use.

2025 Powertrains (Euro 6e)

VersionPower / TorqueFuel typeTransmission0-100 km/hWLTP Consumption*
TCe 9091 hp • 160 NmPetrol6-speed manual12.0 s5.3 l/100 km
TCe 90 CVT91 hp • 142 NmPetrolCVT automatic13.2 s5.9 l/100 km
ECO-G 100101 hp • 170 NmPetrol/LPG6-speed manual11.5 s6.7 l/100 km (LPG)

*Average combined WLTP consumption.

Boot Capacity

328 liters (seats up), up to 1,108 liters with rear seats folded.


PROS

PROWhy it stands out
Urban and outdoor versatilityRaised suspension, roof rails, and compact size make it great for both city and countryside.
Excellent value for moneyStill among the cheapest crossovers in Europe, with a full feature set even in mid trims.
Low running costsEfficient engines, low insurance and tax, and affordable LPG version.
Spacious and practicalRoomy cabin for the class, clever storage, and large, modular boot.
Easy access and drivingRaised ride height aids entry/exit and visibility.
Simple and robust engineeringFewer electronics means less to go wrong—owners report high reliability.

CONS

CONSNoted detail
Basic interior qualityLots of hard plastics, simple finishes—practical but not premium.
Modest performanceSufficient for daily driving, but acceleration is average, especially with full load or LPG.
Suspension comfortRaised ride height means more body roll; not as sharp as some rivals on twisty roads.
Safety featuresBasic ADAS; some versions score only 2 stars in Euro NCAP due to lack of advanced safety tech.
No AWD availableCrossover look, but only front-wheel drive—no real off-road capability.
Boot sill is highLoading/unloading heavy items is not as easy as in some rivals.

Estimated Running Costs

ServiceEstimated cost (€)Interval
Oil and filter change100Every 20,000 km / 12 months
Spark plug replacement80Every 60,000 km
LPG system check (ECO-G)120Every 30,000 km
Tyres 205/60 R16280 (set)Every 40,000 km
LPG energy*~€5.0 /100 km

*Based on €0.85/liter LPG and 6.7 l/100 km average consumption.


Indicative Prices

VersionhpOn-the-road price*
Essential TCe 9091€16,200
Expression TCe 9091€17,200
Expression ECO-G 100101€18,200
Journey ECO-G 100101€19,100
Journey TCe 90 CVT91€20,200

*VAT included; registration and road fees excluded. 2025 BEV Ecobonus not deducted.


Known Issues & Solutions (community & TSB)

IssueSuggested solution
Notchy manual gearbox (LPG)Check and adjust linkage at dealership if shifting feels rough.
Rear suspension noiseInspect and, if needed, replace suspension mounts.
Infotainment system lagEnsure latest software is installed via Dacia service network.
Occasional warning lightsUsually fixed with software update or sensor check at official garage.
Basic speaker sound qualityUpgrade to aftermarket speakers for improved audio.

Summary

The Dacia Sandero Stepway MY2025 remains a top choice for those seeking a reliable, affordable crossover for city and light country driving. Its combination of rugged looks, low running costs, and practical features make it stand out in its segment. While it doesn’t offer premium interior materials or advanced driving aids, its price, reliability, and clever engineering make it an ideal car for families, young drivers, or anyone looking for a practical and stylish everyday vehicle.

Verdict — Dacia Sandero Stepway (Model-Year 2025)

TCe 90 · ECO-G 100 (LPG)

Dacia’s compact crossover is updated with an even more rugged look and outdoor-inspired details. On the outside, you’ll spot the Y-Shaped LED light signature, modular roof rails, underbody skid plates, new off-road bumpers, and 16-17" Flexwheel rims. Inside, you get Advanced Comfort seats with new upholstery, a modern dashboard with 8" display, 7" digital cluster, and a raised driving position for a commanding view.

On the technical front:

  • TCe 90: 1.0 three-cylinder turbo petrol, 90 hp, 6-speed manual, 5.6 l/100 km WLTP;

  • ECO-G 100: LPG/petrol bifuel, 100 hp, combined range over 1,000 km, LPG consumption 6.9 l/100 km WLTP.

Raised suspension, increased ground clearance (174 mm), standard ADAS, and family-friendly practicality.


AspectWhere it excelsWhere it matchesWhere it lags
Design & ImageStrong crossover styling, modular roof bars, color-matched skid plates, distinctive LED signature.16-17" Flexwheel rims, lively outdoor colors.Less refined than Renault Captur or Peugeot 2008.
Comfort & NVHAdvanced Comfort seats, high driving position, great visibility, suspension absorbs bumps well.Manual AC, easy access, improved sound insulation.Some wind noise at highway speed.
Real-world EfficiencyECO-G: real fuel savings, low LPG consumption.TCe 90: 6.0 l/100 km in mixed use.Small LPG tank, less range than larger SUVs on extra-urban routes.
DynamicsSecure handling, good grip on gravel, light steering.Predictable braking, less body roll than the standard Sandero.Not sporty, less grip than premium crossovers.
Practicality328 L boot, folding rear seats, roof rails transform into a rack.Plenty of storage, easy loading lip.No double floor, limited rear space for three adults.
HMI / Infotainment8" display with CarPlay/Android Auto, intuitive physical controls, Bluetooth, USB-C.7" digital cluster, DAB radio.No integrated navigation, basic graphics.
ADAS & SafetyEmergency braking, traffic sign recognition, Hill Start Assist, cruise control.Rear parking sensors, reversing camera.No advanced Lane Keep Assist or Level 2 autonomous systems.
Running CostsLow maintenance, reduced taxes and insurance, affordable tyres (16" from €75 each).3-year/100,000 km warranty, unbeatable LPG running costs.LPG requires more frequent servicing, 17" tyres are pricier.
DepreciationECO-G retains 67% after 36 months, TCe 90 about 65%.Base versions less sought after used.

Who it’s for

Young and sporty drivers — TCe 90 Expression: crossover looks, peppy around town and beyond, comfort and practicality.

Anyone who travels and wants to save — ECO-G 100 Stepway Comfort: dual fuel, ultra-low LPG costs, great range.

Dynamic families — Stepway Journey: space, modular roof bars, all the essentials for trips or sports.


Who should look elsewhere

  • Those wanting premium finish and advanced infotainment → Renault Captur, Peugeot 2008.

  • Sporty driving enthusiasts → Ford Puma Ecoboost, Mazda CX-3.

  • Frequent five-adult travellers → Skoda Kamiq, Hyundai Bayon.


Recommended configuration

ECO-G 100 Stepway Comfort + 8" display + modular roof bars + 16" Flexwheel rims: perfect for those seeking practicality, savings, and crossover style.
Avoid the base version if you want advanced ADAS or superior comfort on long journeys.

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