Review: 2022 Dacia Sandero III Stepway 1.0 TCe 90 CVT
Exploring the practicality and features of the 2022 Dacia Sandero Stepway, a budget-friendly crossover with a modern facelift.

The 2022 Dacia Sandero Stepway is a crossover that combines affordability with practicality, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. With its recent facelift, the Sandero Stepway offers a fresh look and improved features, all while maintaining its reputation for value. Whether you're navigating city streets or planning a weekend getaway, this vehicle promises to deliver a comfortable and efficient driving experience.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the specifics, let's clarify some key terms. The Dacia Sandero Stepway is a 'crossover,' which means it blends features of a car and an SUV, offering higher ground clearance and a more rugged look. The '1.0 TCe 90' refers to its engine type, a 1.0-liter turbocharged petrol engine producing 91 horsepower. The 'CVT' stands for Continuously Variable Transmission, a type of automatic transmission that provides smooth acceleration without the traditional gear shifts.
Main Features and Performance
The 2022 Dacia Sandero Stepway is powered by a 1.0-liter, 3-cylinder engine with a turbocharger, delivering 91 horsepower and 142 Nm of torque. This setup is ideal for city driving, offering enough power for daily commutes while maintaining fuel efficiency. The car's fuel consumption ranges from 5.8 to 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers (approximately 40.55 to 37.94 US mpg), making it economical for long drives as well.
With a kerb weight of 1122 kg, the Sandero Stepway is light, contributing to its agility and ease of handling. The vehicle's dimensions, including a length of 4099 mm and a width of 1848 mm, make it compact enough for urban environments while providing ample interior space. The trunk offers a minimum of 328 liters of space, expandable to 1108 liters, accommodating both daily errands and larger loads.
The Sandero Stepway's suspension system, featuring a McPherson front and semi-dependent rear, ensures a comfortable ride over various terrains. Its front-wheel-drive system and electric power steering enhance maneuverability, especially in tight city spaces.
Suitability for Different Lifestyles
When considering the Sandero Stepway for specific purposes, it's essential to evaluate its strengths and weaknesses:
- City Driving: The compact size and efficient fuel consumption make it perfect for urban settings. Its high ground clearance of 201 mm helps navigate potholes and speed bumps with ease.
- Long-Distance Travel: While the fuel efficiency is a plus, the engine's power might feel limited on highways, especially when overtaking.
- Family Use: With five seats and a spacious trunk, it's suitable for small families. However, the rear drum brakes might not offer the same stopping power as disc brakes in emergency situations.
- Single Ownership: Ideal for singles or couples who need a reliable, cost-effective vehicle for daily use.
- Adventure Lifestyles: The crossover design and roof load capacity make it a decent choice for light off-road adventures, though it's not built for extreme conditions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths: Affordable price, good fuel economy, spacious interior, high ground clearance.
- Weaknesses: Limited engine power for high-speed travel, rear drum brakes, basic interior features.
Conclusion
The 2022 Dacia Sandero Stepway is a practical choice for those seeking a budget-friendly crossover with modern features. Its strengths lie in city driving and everyday practicality, making it a versatile option for various lifestyles. When considering a new car, think about what features matter most to you. Do you prioritize fuel efficiency, space, or affordability?
Specifications Table
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Generation | Sandero III Stepway (facelift 2022) |
Modification (Engine) | 1.0 TCe 90 (91 Hp) CVT |
Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
Body Type | Crossover |
Seats | 5 |
Doors | 5 |
Combined Fuel Consumption | 5.8-6.2 l/100 km |
CO2 Emissions | 131-140 g/km |
Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
Acceleration (0-100 km/h) | Not specified |
Maximum Speed | Not specified |
Emission Standard | Euro 6 DFull |
Engine Displacement | 999 cm3 |
Number of Cylinders | 3 |
Engine Configuration | Inline |
Power Output | 91 Hp |
Torque | 142 Nm |
Kerb Weight | 1122 kg |
Max Load | 479 kg |
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum) | 328 l / 1108 l |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 l |
Length | 4099 mm |
Width | 1848 mm |
Height | 1587 mm |
Wheelbase | 2604 mm |
Drive Wheel System | Front wheel drive |
Number of Gears (Transmission Type) | CVT |
Front Suspension | Independent, type McPherson |
Rear Suspension | Semi-dependent beam |
Front Brakes | Ventilated discs |
Rear Brakes | Drum |
Assisting Systems | ABS |
Power Steering | Electric Steering |
Tire Size | 205/60 R16 |
Wheel Rims Size | 16 |



































