The 2016 Dacia Sandero is a budget-friendly subcompact hatchback that received a mid-generation refresh to enhance its design and cabin convenience. Offering a selection of small-displacement petrol and diesel engines, this front-wheel-drive B-segment car focuses on affordable utility.
Years2016
Body typehatchback
Trims12
Photos20
Overview
Dacia Sandero at a glance
Quick model context before comparing photos and trim-level specifications.
Introduced at the 2016 Paris Motor Show, this update to the second-generation Dacia Sandero brought key cosmetic and equipment upgrades. Positioned as a highly accessible subcompact hatchback, the Sandero targets cost-conscious buyers who need straightforward transportation. The refresh introduces a modernized front grille, revised headlights with LED daytime running lights, and redesigned bumpers. Inside, Dacia improved cabin ergonomics and material quality, making the vehicle more competitive in the European B-segment market without losing its signature value proposition.
Editorial context for design, cabin, performance, practicality, and buyer notes.
Design
The updated exterior features a redesigned front grille and headlights equipped with LED daytime running lights. A new front bumper incorporates reshaped fog light housings, while the rear showcases restyled light clusters with a distinct LED-like signature. The Sandero maintains its standard five-door hatchback layout, with overall dimensions measuring around 4,057 to 4,069 mm in length, a width of 1,733 mm, and a ground clearance of 147 mm.
Interior
Dacia updated several cabin details during the 2016 refresh, most notably introducing a new four-spoke steering wheel. The interior gains additional storage compartments for small items, and the material finishes feel more modern compared to the pre-facelift model. Buyers can find upgraded options in the catalog, including a rearview camera and hill start assist, which improve everyday convenience.
Performance
The engine lineup consists of several small-capacity units. Petrol options include a 1.0-liter three-cylinder engine producing 73 hp (which replaces the older 1.2-liter engine) and a 0.9-liter turbocharged three-cylinder making 90 hp. For diesel buyers, the 1.5-liter dCi is available in either 75 hp or 90 hp configurations. Transmission options depend on the engine, featuring either a five-speed manual gearbox or a five-speed single-clutch robotized automatic.
Practicality
With a cargo capacity of 320 liters, the Sandero provides competitive luggage space for a subcompact hatchback. Its five-door layout and 2,589 mm wheelbase ensure decent passenger space for up to five occupants. A 50-liter fuel tank combined with efficient diesel or three-cylinder petrol engines makes the vehicle practical for long-distance budget commuting.
Safety and tech
Technology upgrades for this model year include the availability of LED daytime running lights and a rearview camera to aid parking. Driver assistance is basic but includes hill start assist to prevent rollback on inclines. The vehicle also features hydraulic power steering as standard across the main configurations.
Buyer notes
When choosing a Dacia Sandero from this model year, buyers should note the difference between the transmissions. The 0.9-liter petrol and 1.5-liter diesel engines offer an optional five-speed robotized transmission, while the entry-level 1.0-liter petrol is manual-only. Exact equipment lists, safety features, and trim availability can vary depending on the target market.
Configurations
Trims and key specifications
Use this table to compare the main differences between available configurations.
Short answers based on the specifications and photos available in this catalog.
What body style is the 2016 Dacia Sandero?
The 2016 Dacia Sandero is a five-door subcompact (B-segment) hatchback featuring front-wheel drive.
What generation is this Dacia Sandero model?
This model represents the facelifted (restyled) version of the second-generation Dacia Sandero, which originally debuted at the 2016 Paris Motor Show.
What engine options are available for the 2016 Sandero?
The model offers a 1.0-liter petrol engine (73 hp), a 0.9-liter turbocharged petrol engine (90 hp), and a 1.5-liter dCi diesel engine available in 75 hp and 90 hp variants.
What transmissions does the 2016 Dacia Sandero use?
Buyers can choose between a five-speed manual gearbox and a five-speed robotized single-clutch automatic, depending on the engine selected.
How much boot space does the 2016 Sandero have?
The hatchback provides a cargo capacity of 320 liters, which is suitable for everyday errands and light travel.
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