THE attractive and refined Renault Sandero range has become synonymous with a host of features and fitments exclusive to its class.
Powered by a Turbo engine, the Sandero boasts superb safety features, as well as smart technologies, as standard across the full range.
The flagship Stepway model has proven to be an extremely popular choice with sales in excess of 30 500 vehicles since its introduction in 2011.
In celebration of its marked success, Renault South Africa has launched the new enhanced Sandero Stepway Techroad, set to replace the current flagship model.
With this introduction, the Sandero range maintains the same construct; Sandero Expression remains the entry level model, followed by an accessible mid-level Stepway Expression derivative, with the New Stepway Techroad leading the line-up as the flagship model.
Striking exterior:
The Sandero proudly hails the brand’s iconic lighting signature seen on all of Renault’s latest models: headlamps that incorporate the characteristic C-shape daytime running lights (LED) plus C-shape rear lights, and both the front and rear bumpers are of new design.
Stepway’s crossover styling remains contemporary and refined with features and fitments that include an integrated roof spoiler, higher ground clearance than the entry Sandero Expression, roof bars, front and rear skid plates, wheel arch mouldings and front fog lights.
The range’s assertive stance is underscored by the fitment of 15” wheels (Sandero Expression) and 16” dark metal flex wheels (Stepway).
Inspired interior design:
A generously proportioned interior and above-class average floor-to-roof clearance front and back make for comfortable and roomy seating for five occupants plus luggage while best-in-class boot space (292 litres) can be further improved upon thanks to the split rear bench.
Best in class safety features
Renault places emphasis on active safety as a means of avoiding accidents and this is substantiated by the fact that Sandero is the only car in its class to include EBA (coupled with ABS) and ESP (+ ASR) as standard across the range.
In addition to the front seat belts with load limiters and ISOFIX fasteners for child and baby seats, Sandero is the only car in its category to offer a three-point safety belt at the central rear seat.
Emergency Brake Assist (EBA), coupled with ABS
The anti-lock braking system (ABS) now comes with EBA which kicks in and automatically applies maximum brake pressure when emergency braking conditions are detected. Maximum pressure is applied from the onset of braking and remains until the ABS trigger threshold is reached. EBA shortens braking distance by up to nine metres at 120km/h.
Electronic Stability (Control) Programme (ESP)
ESP ensures vehicle stability and assists the driver to avoid possible loss of control; detects and reduces loss of traction (on slippery road surfaces, for example) and reduces engine power and brakes on independent wheels in the event of loss of control.
Hill Start Assist (HSA)
HSA is automatically activated (upon complete stop) as soon as an incline of at least 10% is detected.
The system is engaged by stepping firmly on the brake and prevents any backward movement for long enough to pull off without needing to use the handbrake. When stepping off the brake, the car will hold for approximately three seconds to allow pull off with no roll-back.
F1-inspired turbo 66kw engine
Access to technologically advanced engines is no longer the reserve of expensive cars as proven by Renault’s F1-inspired three cylinder, 900cc petrol Turbo 66kW engine.
This compact new generation Turbo power plant is standard across the Sandero line-up (the only Turbo-powered model in its vehicle segment) and highly efficient thanks to its lightweight 100% aluminium (HPDC) engine block, low inertia turbo, variable valve timing, piloted variable oil pump and lifetime engine chain.
With maximum output of 66kW @ 5 250rpm, the petrol Turbo power plant delivers peak torque of 135Nm at 2 500rpm of which 90% is available from 1 650rpm.
Going from 0 to 100km/h in just 11.1 seconds, top speed is 169km/h.
With the Sandero Expression sipping just 5.2 litres/100km, fuel consumption is competitively low. At an equally impressive 5.4 litres/100km the Stepway is not far behind. Furthermore, at 119g/km (Sandero) and 124g/km (Stepway), CO2 emissions are at a very acceptable low.
Introducing new Stepway Techroad
The exterior of the Stepway is distinguished through its bespoke design and badging with 16” two-tone Flex wheel covers with blue centre caps, and Gloss Black door mirrors with distinctive design decals on B-Pillars and lower sections of the doors.
New Stepway offers standard features, such side airbags, front and rear power windows, electric side mirrors, leather steering wheel and gear knob and rear park assist.
Cruise control and navigation are also standard (unique in this vehicle segment) while leather seats are an option.
The comprehensive Renault MediaNav, integrated on-board multimedia system with 7” touchscreen, is an extremely intuitive system offering quick access to all settings.
The new Stepway offers smartphone mirroring, an extremely beneficial functionality with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
The Stepway also boasts a rear parking camera, to facilitate the driver by alleviating blind spots in reverse mode.
Recommended retail pricing
. Sandero Expression R209 900 (incl. VAT) 66kW Turbo
. Renault Stepway Expression R223 900 (incl. VAT) 66kW Turbo
. New Renault Stepway Plus R243 900 (incl. VAT) 66kw Turbo
. New Renault Stepway Techroad R243 900 (incl. VAT) 66kw Turbo
Optional:
Leather seats (Stepway Plus only): R10 088
Metallic paint: R2 522
