Renault South Africa has launched the second incarnation of its entry-level Sandero in Johannesburg, and on paper it looks to create a massive stir in the A-segment.

Let’s be honest, the previous generation Renault Sandero was an acceptable product at best. It wasn’t exactly a flagship offering from the French brand and despite it being made in South Africa alongside Nissan products, it didn’t do that well. That’s all in the past now and the all-new Renault Sandero for 2014 is miles ahead of its predecessor.

Gone is the South African production – this new Sandero is imported from Romania. Gone are the lacklustre and dated engines – the terrific 0.9-litre turbo three pot from the Renault Clio 4 is fitted. Finally the interior offers unrivaled specification and safety features for this class. On paper at least, the new Renault Sandero should wipe the floor with its competitors.

Sandero styling

It’s not unpleasant to look at either. Styling is decidedly Eurocentric and modern – something this segment desperately needs. The Sandero’s competition consists mainly of the Volkswagen Polo Vivo and Ford Figo. Both are vehicles which are based on previous generation models, whereas the Sandero is an all-new offering. This segment is hotly contested, with 60 000 vehicles sold each year.

Two specification levels

There are two specification levels available – Expression and Dynamique, with the only differences being the lack of driver/passenger side airbags, alloy wheels, front fog lights, body-coloured door handles, electric side mirrors, electric rear windows and a depth adjustable steering wheel on the bottom Expression model.

Standard features

The amount of specification you get is very impressive. I’ll focus on the 66 kW Turbo Dynamique – the range topper and the vehicle I drove on launch. As standard, you get air conditioning, remote central locking, electric windows all round, radio with CD/Bluetooth/MP3/USB port, radio controls behind the steering wheel, cruise control, speed limiter, eco mode button, leather steering wheel, alloy wheels and front fog lights.

It ticks all the boxes when it comes to safety too as it has ABS brakes, electronic brake assist, electronic stability programme, anti skid regulation as well as four airbags. It’s interesting to note that none of the Renault Sandero’s competitors offer this level of safety…

Renault Sandero powerplant

Then there’s that engine. The Renault Sandero makes use of the 66 kW / 135 Nm 0.9-litre turbocharged three cylinder motor seen in the Renault Clio. Thanks to its turbocharger, performance doesn’t drop at Johannesburg altitudes unlike its competitors. Performance is good considering the size of the vehicle and there’s a nice little surge of torque after 2 000 rpm. It’s also one of the few engines which sound quite good when you drive aggressively. Drive responsibly and you’ll see under 6.0 l/100km.

Our launch route took us from Lanseria airport through the Cradle of Humankind and then through to Pretoria for lunch. The ride is good, the performance is acceptable and the car really doesn’t feel cheap. Given the large number of potholes we saw on the launch route, it’s reassuring to know the Renault Sandero comes with a full-size spare wheel in the boot.

Servicing and warranty

Finally, there’s a five year, 150 000km warranty and a two year 30 000km service plan thrown in. Some quick research has shown Renault parts have come down in price recently and are able to match Volkswagen and Ford. The dreaded cambelt service (trust me on this, I’m a Clio II owner) has fallen away as both the Renault Clio 4 and new Renault Sandero have timing chains which don’t ever need replacing.

Renault Sandero price in South Africa

In summary, the new Renault Sandero is a great piece of kit. It’s a pleasant drive with every comfort feature you need. It’s remarkably spacious inside and the boot space is worth mentioning. The product is a good one, but I feel the French diamond will put many people off. Those who are brave and buy one won’t be disappointed. The Renault Sandero Expression comes in at R133 900, while the Renault Sandero Dynamique retails for R141 500.

Renault Sandero gallery