Dacia Sandero remains Britain’s cheapest car despite £1k price increase

The Dacia Sandero is still Britain’s cheapest car, despite a sizeable £1,000 (16.7 per cent) price increase for the entry-level Access model. That premium sees the basic Sandero jump from £5,995 to £6,995, despite its unchanged spec sheet. 

On sale since 2013, the Sandero’s £5,995 headline figure has been unaffected by inflation, tax changes and list price hikes. However, due to recent VED tweaks and other external factors, bosses have decided it is no longer feasible to sell the bargain supermini for such a low price. 

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Regardless, the Sandero is still more than £500 cheaper than a Suzuki Celerio, and significantly less expensive than a Ford Fiesta, SEAT Ibiza or Vauxhall Corsa. If you want a car that can compete with the Sandero on space, you’ll need to step up to the pricier MG3, which costs from £8,695. 

Most other models in the range see a modest price increase. The basic SCe 75 engine in mid-spec Ambience trim is now just £800 more than the entry car (compared to £1,400 previously), while the popular turbo petrol TCe 90 version commands an additional £800. Ambience versions benefit from standard-fit air conditioning, a DAB radio and body coloured trim. Top-spec Laureate cars boast a touchscreen sat-nav and parking sensors, with the most expensive dCi 90 version seeing a £400 jump.

Look at the finance deals and the Sandero is even more affordable. With a £1,367 deposit (and a £250 Dacia deposit contribution), you can drive away in a Sandero Access for £89 per month. 

The engine line-up is unaffected, comprising two petrols and a diesel. The most economical version is the dCi 90, which claims 80.7mpg. 

Does the Dacia Sandero’s price premium put you off? Let us know in the comments below…