Renault has launched its locally-produced Sandero range in a bid to provide buyers with an entry-level offering that combines appealing looks with spaciousness, safety, and practicality at an affordable price.The Sandero is the first Renault model to be manufactured in South Africa in more than 30 years. Built in Rosslyn, Pretoria as part of a R1-billion Renault-Nissan Alliance joint investment, this model is underpinned by the Alliance companies B0 platform, which forms the basis of such models as the Renault Logan and Nissan NP200. The Sandero looks to take the Logan’s generous proportions and aggressive pricing and wrap it in packaging that is more appealing to a younger clientele.

"The Sandero is the right car at the right time," says Xavier Gobille, managing director of Renault SA. "It is a key model in our revitalisation strategy, and represents Renault's firm commitment to offering a product range that is perfectly in tune with customer requirements and market trends in South Africa….More crucially, however, it meets the desperate need for affordability and outright value in a tense economic climate defined by credit restrictions, negative economic sentiment and severe budget constraints."

The Sandero’s 4 020 mm wheelbase and interior packaging give this five-door hatchback interior dimensions close to that of many C-segment offerings, while its 320 dm³ luggage space (growing to 1 200 dm³ with the seats folded) is similar to what you’d expect from B-segment hatchbacks.

The Sandero range will initially comprise 5 models with a choice of two engines – a pair of 8-valve units displacing 1,4- and 1,6-litres both of which are mated to a five-speed manual gearbox. The 1,4-litre unit develops 55 kW at 5 500 r/min and 112 N.m of torque at 3 000 r/min. This powerplant propels the Sandero from 0-100 km/h in 13, seconds, and on to a top speed of 161 km/h. Renault claims a combined cycle fuel consumption figure of 7,0-litres/100 km for this unit. The 1,6 delivers 64 kW at 5 500 r/min and 128 N.m at 3 000 r/min, giving the Sandero a 0-100 km/h time of 11,5 seconds and a top speed of 174 km/h. Claimed fuel consumption stands at 7,2 litres/100 km on the combined cycle.

In terms of specifications, the entry-level 1,4 Authentique includes power steering, a collapsible steering wheel, height adjustment for the driver's seat, a driver's airbag, four speakers and pre-fitted wiring for a CD receiver, as well as a heated rear screen with wash-wipe function, high-mounted third brake light, an integrated immobiliser, and headlight level adjustment.

The 1,6 Expression adds a passenger-side airbag with a deactivation switch, air-conditioning, key-operated central locking, and satin chrome finishes for the dashboard facia and interior door strips, fabric door trim inserts, and white instrument dials with satin chrome surrounds. The 1,6 Expression Pack also brings in a more comprehensive array of active safety features such as ABS with EBD and brake-assist. This model also receives remote central locking with selective unlocking functionality, as well as the Renault Anti-Intrusion Device (RAID) for added security.

Next up is the 1,6 Expression+ Pack, which is distinguished by electrically operated front windows, an MP3-compatible CD receiver, body-coloured side mirrors and satin chrome door handles. The range-topping 1,6 Dynamique adds electric mirrors, electrically operated front and rear windows, a useful 60:40 split for the folding rear seats, and height-adjustable front seatbelts. There are also additional satin chrome finishes on the air vents and the gear knob insert, together with body-coloured side door mouldings, a colour-coded grille with chrome detail strip, front fog lamps and 15-inch alloy wheels shod with 185/65 R15 tyres.

All Sandero models come with a 3-year/100 000 km mechanical warranty and 6-year anti-corrosion warranty, with service intervals every 15 000 km. From the 1,6 Expression pack upwards, all Sanderos come with a full 5-year/60 000 km maintenance plan as standard. In addition, A 3-year/45 000 km service plan or a 5-year/60 000 km maintenance plan are available as optional extras for the 1,4 Authentique and 1,6 Expression models.

Pricing

1,4 Authentique R98 800

1,6 Expression R111 800

1,6 Expression Pack R126 800

1,6 Expression+ Pack R136 800

1,6 Dynamique R142 800

Original article from Car