Bucharest – Dacia is poised to shake up the automotive market with the introduction of hybrid powertrains for its popular Sandero and Sandero Stepway models, alongside a range of updates designed to enhance efficiency and appeal. The move, announced on February 20, 2026, signals a broader push by the Romanian manufacturer to electrify its entire lineup and offer consumers more affordable, fuel-efficient options. The recent Dacia Sandero could be one of the cheapest cars to run ever, appealing to budget-conscious drivers seeking a practical and environmentally friendly vehicle.
The centerpiece of the update is the new 155 Hybrid powertrain, which joins the existing 100 TCe three-cylinder turbocharged engine. This hybrid system, already implemented in the larger Jogger model, combines a naturally-aspirated 1.5-liter four-cylinder petrol engine with an electric motor and an integrated starter generator. Notably, the battery capacity is relatively small at just 1.4 kWh, but Dacia engineers have optimized the system to allow for up to 80 percent urban driving on electric power alone, significantly reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Hybrid Power and Performance Gains
The 155 Hybrid powertrain delivers a combined power output of 153 bhp, representing a 52 bhp increase over the standard internal combustion engine Sandero. While the hybrid offers a substantial power boost, the traditional three-cylinder engine retains a torque advantage, producing 200 Nm compared to the hybrid’s 170 Nm. Performance figures for the Sandero itself haven’t been officially released, but the larger Jogger equipped with the same powertrain can accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in 9 seconds and reach a top speed of 111 mph – 0.7 seconds faster than the pure-ICE Sandero, according to Auto Express.
Efficiency and Environmental Benefits
Beyond the performance improvements, the hybrid powertrain promises significant gains in fuel efficiency. While Dacia has not yet published specific figures for the Sandero, the Jogger with the 155 Hybrid powertrain achieves 61.4 mpg on official tests and emits 104 g/km of CO2. This represents a reduction of approximately 1.4 l/100 km and 17 g/km compared to the current Sandero with a traditional internal combustion engine. Similar improvements are anticipated for the Sandero model.
Sustainable Materials and Enhanced Features
Dacia’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond the powertrain. The Stepway models, known for their increased ground clearance, now feature a new exterior cladding material called Starkle, composed of 20% recycled polymer. This innovative material eliminates the need for additional coatings or painting, reducing the vehicle’s carbon footprint and simplifying the recycling process at the end of its life.
Inside, higher trim levels of the Sandero, Stepway, and Jogger benefit from upgraded features, including automatic headlights, a multi-view camera system, and electrically folding rearview mirrors. The dashboard instrumentation has also been redesigned for a more modern aesthetic. All new versions of these models now comply with the latest European safety standards, incorporating driver attention monitoring and autonomous emergency braking systems.
Cost Considerations for Hybrid Technology
The addition of hybrid technology comes at a cost. Based on the price difference between the thermal and hybrid versions of the Jogger, buyers can expect to pay around 3,500 euros extra for the hybrid option. However, experts suggest that the long-term running costs of the hybrid Sandero could be significantly lower, making it an attractive proposition for cost-conscious consumers.
The updates to the Dacia range reflect a broader industry trend towards electrification and sustainability. By offering a hybrid option for its popular Sandero and Sandero Stepway models, Dacia is making eco-friendly driving more accessible to a wider audience. The integration of recycled materials and enhanced safety features further demonstrates the brand’s commitment to responsible manufacturing and driver well-being.
Dacia has not yet announced a firm date for the market launch of the updated Sandero and Sandero Stepway models, but further details, including pricing and availability, are expected in the coming weeks. Consumers interested in learning more about the new hybrid powertrains and features are encouraged to visit the official Dacia website for the latest information.
This is a developing story. We will continue to monitor updates from Dacia and provide further reporting as it becomes available.
